Écomusée du fier monde – Montreal

“I recently visited the Écomusée du fier monde in Montreal, which is a beautifully repurposed Art Deco building that housed an indoor public bath known as the Bain Généreux for 65 years starting in 1927. While still retaining its historic character and an understanding of how the various spaces – such as the central pool and the changerooms along the sides – were used, the building now hosts a community museum, a gallery and event space. From the moment you walk through the doors, and as you explore the upper and lower levels of the building, it recounts the story from past to present of the people who reside(d) in the historic working-class neighbourhood in which it is situated.

This building struck me as a positive example not just because of the beautiful historic architecture and its tasteful adaptation, but because of the way in which its new use embodies the socio-cultural values of the original program as an active community space in the neighbourhood while responding to its modern values and diversified population. In this space, you can witness the layers of history, get a better sense of the community, and feel a part of something. The space was also flooded with natural light, welcoming, and barrier-free, with ramps and elevators well-integrated into the design. In addition to sharing historical and current information on the neighbourhood, it is a gallery space for local artists, both professional and non-professional. Events which engage the community are also hosted here, occupying even the former pool area and bringing an additional layer of life to the space as locals and visitors can experience the same space together.” (Booklet Positive Lived Experiences of Quality in the Built Environment 2023, p.76).

Google map link: https://goo.gl/maps/dkbCNsnTDVFT1q678