The project involved a major redevelopment of the sports sector of the main building, commonly known as “La Méga,” at the Saint-Jean garrison. It included the demolition of an existing building and the construction of a new covered stadium adjacent to La Méga, connected by a three-storey link. The renovation and new construction aimed to provide a modern cafeteria and dining hall with open, spacious layouts and full-height glazing on the south and east façades. The existing structure was modified and reinforced to accommodate new mechanical units, floor slopes, plumbing, electrical services, and kitchen equipment.
Sustainability was a central focus, particularly through the use of steel for the expansion structure. Since the 1990s, the steel industry has reduced its energy consumption per tonne by about one-third. More than 95% of the water used in steel manufacturing is recycled and returned, often cleaner than when it was sourced, and every piece of steel contains recycled content. Furthermore, steel can be recovered and recycled indefinitely, supporting the project’s goal of achieving LEED Canada Gold certification.
A major challenge was the structural slab at ground level, which prevented access beneath the floor for plumbing work. The initial solution—cutting the slab within column bays—proved too costly and disruptive for a facility that needed to remain operational. The innovative solution was to create a series of tunnels accessible from outside, entirely beneath the slab, allowing plumbing work to be carried out from below. This approach reduced costs, simplified project phasing, and ensured the facility remained fully functional throughout construction.