A sensitive and transformative lighting scheme at the Maisonneuve Library in Montreal, supported by a control solution from Pharos Architectural Controls, has redefined the way the building’s rich architectural heritage is experienced after dark, uniting historic character and contemporary expansion.
Originally constructed as a decorative-style heritage building in a working-class neighbourhood, the Maisonneuve Library has long held cultural significance within the community. Conceived initially as a political space before evolving into a scientific venue and ultimately a cultural hub, the building has continually adapted to the needs of its surroundings. More recently, the library was expanded with the addition of two modernist glass prism structures, designed to strengthen the connection between interior and exterior environments and enhance its role as a civic landmark.
Despite its architectural and cultural importance, the building’s heritage qualities had remained visually underplayed for many years, with its defining features waiting to be reinterpreted and brought back into focus. As part of a long-term vision to reinvigorate the site, a carefully considered lighting strategy was introduced to reveal the library’s layered identity and re-establish its presence.
LightFactor, appointed by the lead architects as specialist lighting designers for the heritage restoration, developed a concept that emphasises cohesion, restraint and architectural clarity. To achieve this vision, a Pharos system was selected to provide flexible, reliable and intuitive lighting control. The installation utilises a Pharos Designer TPC, a one DMX universe lighting controller with a fully integrated and customisable touchscreen user interface, allowing operators to create multiple pages of lighting controls, configure their appearance, and receive immediate visual feedback to ensure an intuitive and responsive method of managing the scheme locally. The TPC is also programmed for a daily routine with a welcoming design running from dawn to closing time, an atmospheric evening look, and finally turning off at night. The TPC’s location settings and astronomical triggers ensure these all play correctly from sunrise throughout the changing seasons.
Alexandre Tougas, Directeur Design | Design Director at LightFactor, said, “Working on the Maisonneuve Library meant finding a balance between architectural respect and contemporary expression. With the support of Pharos control solutions, we were able to deliver precise, layered lighting that reveals the building’s heritage without overpowering it. The result is a subtle yet powerful transformation that reconnects the space with its identity.”
Michael Grosse, Regional Sales Manager for the Americas at Pharos, added, “Projects like Maisonneuve Library demonstrate how considered control is essential to sensitive heritage lighting. The Pharos Designer TPC allows designers and operators to maintain precise control over atmosphere and timing, ensuring the lighting responds to the building’s life consistently and intuitively.”
Together, the lighting design, strategy and control system bring clarity and cohesion to the Maisonneuve Library, respecting its heritage character while supporting its role as a contemporary civic landmark.
Project Credits:
Architects: EVOQ Architecture – Gilles Prud’homme Lead Architect
Electrical Engineers: Pageau Morel – Olivier Goyette-Cournoyer
Photographer: Adrien Williams – Provided courtesy of LightFactor