![By Emmanuel Huybrechts from Laval, Canada (Montreal Stock Exchange Tower) [CC BY 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons - https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Montreal_Stock_Exchange_Tower_(5892652978).jpg](https://sbsa.ca/wp-content/uploads/Montreal_Stock_Exchange_Tower_5892652978.jpg)
A Montreal Landmark is Born
Commonly referred to as Place Victoria, the Montreal Stock Exchange is a true Montreal landmark, and at the time of its construction in 1964, it redefined what was possible in concrete construction. At 47 stories and 624 feet high, the Stock Exchange Tower was the tallest building in Canada, the biggest office complex in the British Commonwealth and the highest reinforced concrete building in the world.
SBSA continues to provide structural engineering services to Place Victoria today for projects involving: repairs to the structure and parking levels, tenant fit up modifications, installation of new roof top and mechanical equipment and various other projects.
While it is has now been over 50 years since it has been completed, many of its revolutionary design features conceived by Jack Barbacki arose from the same principles we hold true today; design using advanced analysis to minimize cost, ensure safety, and facilitate construction.
One of the most significant features was the earthquake and wind force resisting system comprised of an X-shaped central core and outrigger trusses connected to the corner columns at the 5th, 19th and 32nd floor levels.
Equally significant is the novel 2-way waffle slab floor construction, designed to minimize floor to floor height, allow for large column free spaces, and be easily reproducible floor to floor.
Today its unique architectural elements, most notably its precast covered corner columns, have kept it relevant among many newer buildings.