The iconic Molson Brewery site in Montreal is about to be completely transformed. This historic space, which has been a part of the city for over 200 years, is being redeveloped into Quartier Molson. This exciting new neighbourhood promises to create a new chapter in Montrealโ€™s story. This blog will explore everything you need to know about this ambitious redevelopment and what it means for the cityโ€™s future.

Breathing New Life into the Montreal Molson Brewery

Breathing New Life into the Montreal Molson Brewery
Credits : Storeys

For over 200 years, the Molson Brewery Montreal was more than just a place where beer was madeโ€”it was a part of Montrealโ€™s history and identity. Sitting proudly by the St. Lawrence River, this iconic site witnessed the cityโ€™s growth, symbolising hard work and heritage. But after the brewery moved its operations, the site fell quiet, leaving many to wonder what would come next. The historic Molson Brewery is about to be transformed into Quartier Molson, an exciting new neighbourhood designed to celebrate its rich past while looking boldly toward the future. With plans for green parks, community spaces, and thousands of homes, this redevelopment will turn the brewery into a hub of life and connection.

From Industry to Community: The Vision for Quartier Molson

The Montreal Molson Brewery site is being transformed into Quartier Molson, a 10.8-hectare neighbourhood that will blend history, community, and modern living. This massive project is led by Laval-based developer MONTONI and Fonds immobilier de solidarit\u00e9 FTQ, who aim to create a space where heritage and innovation come together.

Here is what is planned for Quartier Molson:

    • 5,000 new homes
    • A huge public park called Sohmer Park
    • Nine unique โ€œIslands.โ€ 
    • Historic features like the Molson Tower, chimney, and clock will remain, preserving the siteโ€™s rich legacy.

The project also focuses on sustainability. To ensure its environmental friendliness and energy efficiency, Quartier Molson aims for certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and Zero-Carbon Building.

A Neighbourhood Designed for Everyone

A Neighbourhood Designed for Everyone
Credits : Memento. Heritage Montreal

Quartier Molson is designed as a space where people from all backgrounds feel welcome and connected. It goes beyond just buildings and aims to create a thriving community that promotes inclusivity, green living, and accessibility.

Here are the highlights that makes it special:

    • Affordable Housing: Out of the 5,000 planned homes, 20% are reserved for social housing, ensuring the neighbourhood remains inclusive and diverse.
    • Green Spaces for All: Sohmer Park, a massive 150,000-square-foot public park, will provide a peaceful retreat for residents. Additional courtyards, gardens, and a new shoreline walk along the St. Lawrence River will make it easy for everyone to enjoy nature.
    • A Place to Live, Work, and Play: The design includes nine interconnected โ€œIslandsโ€ featuring homes, cafes, shops, offices, and public spaces. Itโ€™s a community where people can find everything they need within walking distance.
    • Pedestrian and Cyclist Friendly: The neighbourhood is being thoughtfully planned to encourage walking and cycling, promoting a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle.

By focusing on affordability, sustainability, and community, Quartier Molson is set to become a vibrant neighbourhood with something for everyone.

Honouring the Past While Building the Future

Honouring the Past While Building the Future
Credits : Groupebc2

The redevelopment of the Molson Brewery Montreal site is all about keeping its history alive while creating something fresh and exciting. The iconic parts of the old brewery will remain an important part of Quartier Molson, showing how the past and future can work together.

The following sites are being preserved:

    • The Molson Tower and Chimney: These famous landmarks will stay at the heart of the neighbourhood, reminding everyone of the breweryโ€™s legacy.
    • The Historic Clock and Sign: These well-known features of the Montreal Molson Brewery will continue to shine, connecting the areaโ€™s rich history to its new future.

A Sustainable Vision

Sustainability is a key focus of the redevelopment of the Molson Brewery Montreal site. The developers are committed to creating a modern, environmentally friendly neighbourhood that will set an example for future urban projects.

Hereโ€™s how Quartier Molson will prioritise sustainability:

    • Green Building Practices: The neighbourhood aims to achieve LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and Zero-Carbon Building (ZCB) certifications, ensuring energy-efficient and eco-friendly designs.
    • Innovative Energy Solutions: Plans include exploring sustainable energy systems, such as a potential energy loop, to reduce environmental impact.
    • Green Spaces: With a 150,000-square-foot public park, courtyards, and gardens, Quartier Molson will provide plenty of space for residents to enjoy nature while supporting biodiversity.

By focusing on green initiatives, the Montreal Molson Brewery redevelopment is preserving history and investing in a healthier and more sustainable future for the city.

The Road Ahead

The redevelopment of the Molson Brewery Montreal site is set to begin in 2025, starting with รŽle des Voltigeursโ€”the oldest and most iconic part of the property. This phase will play a key role in shaping the identity of Quartier Molson while also laying the foundation for its future.

Here is a glimpse of the first phase:

    • New Offices for MolsonCoors: The breweryโ€™s legacy will remain connected to the site with the relocation of MolsonCoors offices to รŽle des Voltigeurs.
    • Affordable Housing: The initial phase will include social housing units, emphasising inclusivity right from the start.
    • Mixed Spaces: Commercial areas, public amenities, and vibrant community hubs will also take shape in this section.

Be Part of Montrealโ€™s Next Chapter

Quartier Molson is more than a redevelopmentโ€”itโ€™s a chance to experience something new and exciting. The transformation of the Molson Brewery Montreal site is creating a neighbourhood that brings together history and modern living. Picture relaxing in green parks, meeting neighbours in open spaces, and living in a community that connects people. This isnโ€™t just about buildingsโ€”itโ€™s about building a place where everyone can feel at home. Quartier Molson invites you to imagine being part of this new chapter, where Montrealโ€™s past and future come together in one incredible space.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Quartier Molson?

Quartier Molson is a major redevelopment of Montreal's historic Molson Brewery site. It will transform the 10.8-hectare site into a mixed-use neighbourhood featuring housing, green spaces, retail, offices, and community areas. The project aims to preserve the siteโ€™s heritage while introducing modern, sustainable living.

When will construction begin?

Construction is expected to start in 2025. The first phase will focus on รŽlot des Voltigeurs, including new Molson Coors offices, social housing, and mixed-use spaces.

Where is the Molson Brewery site located?

The site spans 10.8 hectares along the St. Lawrence River in Montreal's Ville-Marie borough, between Atateken and Papineau streets, near the Ville-Marie Highway.

Who are the developers behind Quartier Molson?

MONTONI, based in Laval, and the Fonds immobilier de solidaritรฉ FTQ (FTQ Solidarity Real Estate Fund) are developing the project.

Will there be public consultations or opportunities for community input?

The developers have discussed the project with the City of Montreal and expressed a commitment to creating a neighbourhood that aligns with the community's needs and values. However, the reference article does not provide specific details about public consultations.