Projets / Palais Montcalm
STGM transformed Palais Montcalm in Quebec into a world-class concert hall, blending heritage restoration and acoustic innovation to create an exceptional cultural landmark.
A heritage reimagined
In the heart of Old Quebec, Palais Montcalm has been reborn as one of the world’s premier concert halls. A classified heritage building, it presented major challenges—uneven floors, non-compliant exits, low ceilings, and asbestos—demanding precision and discipline from the design team.
Architecture in the service of sound
The core ambition: achieve exceptional acoustics. The Raoul-Jobin Hall features maple walls angled in every direction, reflecting nearly 100% of sound waves. Through an innovation by STGM and the M.U.S:E consortium, wooden boxes filled with compressed volcanic olivine sand create a uniform density that delivers a perfect reverberation time of 2.2 seconds—adjustable to 1.7 seconds with retractable curtains.
“The sound is magnificent — one of the best halls in the world,” said conductor Jordi Savall.
The spectator experience
The design fosters a close, almost tangible relationship between artist and audience. The Art Deco-inspired foyers were reimagined as bright, open gathering spaces ideal for receptions and events.
Versatile by design
Adjacent to the main hall, the Youville Hall serves as an intimate performance venue, rehearsal space, and recording studio. With adjustable acoustic panels, a universal rigging grid, and a mobile control booth, it adapts seamlessly to any configuration.
This project embodies STGM’s vision — merging heritage, innovation, and acoustic mastery to create spaces where architecture and music meet in harmony. Winner of an architectural competition, it was later honored with the Special Jury Prize from the City of Québec for its outstanding quality and execution.