MAISON ROBERT-BÉLANGER

The project aims to commemorate the rural past of the Maison Robert-Bélanger while transforming its grounds into a vibrant, purposeful space rooted in contemporary values. Inspired by the 19th-century rural era, the exterior design embraces the theme of self-sufficiency. The site will thus serve both as a testament to history and as an active participant in today’s society.

Around the house, an ornamental garden featuring lilacs, peonies, irises, and other heritage species evokes the floral environment of the past. Adjacent to the residence, a heritage vegetable garden, enclosed by cedar posts, showcases edible heirloom plants. A symbolic bread oven, outlined with a metal border and filled with river stones, preserves the memory of traditional rural life.

From the Robert-Bélanger residence, a central axis leads visitors through the site. A main path, once extending into the fields, now connects to the backyard. This open space, surfaced with stone screenings reminiscent of historical gravel, serves multiple functions: it can host public gatherings and tents, provides access to the main building via stairs or an accessible ramp, and connects to a shed adjacent to the heritage garden.

To the west of the house, a shaded green room, sheltered by mature trees, offers a setting for small cultural events. Beyond, a large vegetable garden, divided into two sections along the main path, supports more intensive agricultural production. One plot, near Céline-Marier Street, is enclosed by a cedar plank fence tracing the footprint of the former barn. These gardens are used to grow vegetables distributed to local organizations, and are managed by a community organization based on-site.
At the rear of the property, a reimagined orchard includes both historic and modern fruit species, surrounded by berries and edible flowers. Ground markings hint at the location of the former stable. Rustic benches and a large inclusive picnic table foster conviviality and community spirit, in homage to family gatherings of the past. The last original apple tree has been preserved, and grafts have been made to continue its lineage.

Adjacent to the gardens and orchard, an existing woodland is protected and enhanced to support the urban canopy and reinforce biodiversity. Composed of native species typical of the hickory-maple forest, it reflects both the historic use of firewood and the region’s maple syrup traditions.

Finally, heritage farming tools, playfully painted bright yellow, are strategically placed throughout the site in reference to its agricultural history.