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Projects / UTILE - Cité Universitaire

Innovative student housing across from Université Laval: a sustainable, inclusive, and light-filled living environment designed for the student community.

Sector of activity

Living spaces

Client

L'intendant / Utile

Budget

36 M$

Year

2023

Location

Québec

Photography

Stéphane Groleau

A landmark project serving the student community

Cité-Universitaire marks a major milestone for UTILE, representing its first student-housing project in the city of Québec. Located directly across from Université Laval, in the heart of Sainte-Foy, this new living environment offers privileged access to campus services while enriching the surrounding neighbourhood. Designed through a strongly collaborative approach, the project boldly and responsibly addresses the real needs of the student population.

An inclusive, ergonomic, and bright living environment

Rising eight storeys, the building welcomes up to 244 residents within 204 carefully optimized units. From studios to two-, three-, or four-bedroom apartments, each layout was crafted to provide an ergonomic, welcoming, and light-filled setting adapted to today’s student reality. The ground floor brings together UTILE’s administrative offices, a laundry room, and a rear terrace, encouraging encounters and collective life. Underground, about fifty parking spaces and a secure bicycle area support diverse and responsible mobility choices.

A refined, sustainable, and elegant architecture

The architectural expression stands out through the sobriety and elegance of its façades. The vertical rhythm of the black cladding gives the building a clean, composed presence, while the strategic corner is enhanced by balconies and copper-toned cladding that echo the brick hues of neighbouring buildings. This refined intervention strengthens the project’s harmonious integration within its urban context.

The design also highlights sustainable practices aligned with UTILE’s mission and STGM’s commitments: optimized spaces, durable materials, responsible site management, and an emphasis on active transportation.

A tangible impact on the community

Through its scale, Cité-Universitaire stands as UTILE’s most ambitious project to date. It offers a concrete response to the shortage of student housing while creating a high-quality, accessible living environment rooted in its community. A reliable, engaged, and forward-looking architectural contribution.