Unity 2 is a new housing development on Paper Hill in Montreal. The project vertically entwines a series of housing typologies including double height “flo-thru”units such that almost all the living units front on both public and private sides and have cross ventilation. The form and siting of Unity 2 will complete an urban block and establish a new semi-public courtyard, intensifying the public experience and attempting to prolong the public network of the city. Unity 2’s facade was conceived as a screen that would evoke the appearance of the original daylight factories in a contemporary manner. An additional rhythm created by the flipping of double height living spaces helps blur the differences in floor heights between the two buildings while maintaining related residential scales.

Jury Comment:

This is an excellent urban interaction of space in the heart of Montreal. We like the quality and variety of unit types, based on research. The original, modernist facades use standard materials, on a modest budget. The innovation continues with the egress stair providing spatial joy for all. A great housing project, fashioned from a low budget.
Peter Busby