Construction Equipment Operated on Isle of Hull
Hull Island, once a bustling working-class district, is transforming into the heart of Gatineau, overcoming the devastating effects of mass expropriations in the 70s to construct federal buildings and highways. Situated on the north shore of the Ottawa River, across from Ottawa, this historic island is witnessing a remarkable resurgence with ambitious residential projects sprouting up.
Steve Moran, Hull-Wright district city councillor and executive committee president of Gatineau, reflects on those times, "Hull Island still bears the scars of the 70s expropriations, forcing over 5,000 people to relocate. The entire island's urban landscape was altered, and the remnants persist. However, change is in the air. The last significant supermarket on Hull Island shut down in 1998, and we've been supermarket-free for 26 years. In 2024, a new sizable supermarket opened its doors."
To boost the construction of 4,000 housing units on Hull Island, a tax credit program was established in 2010. This goal was achieved in 2023, and the revitalization program was renewed for the future. "The updated program emphasizes constructing family or social housing and more eco-friendly buildings, providing more substantial subsidies," explains Moran. "And there are cranes on Hull Island, so it's clear the program is working."
The revitalization of Gatineau's downtown is not devoid of difficulties. The Association of Residents and Residents of Hull Island (ARIH), founded in 2002, has taken an interest in tenant rights, with 2021 marking a crucial point in their awareness campaign. The treatment of tenants residing near Fire Station 3 last year to make way for a residential tower raised concerns.
"Tenants were evicted hastily before their lease expired, and we raised our concerns with the city to better protect tenant rights," says Daniel Cayley-Daoust, ARIH's president. "Our efforts resulted in attention coming from elected officials, the mayor's office, and civil servants, leading to the first modification of the demolition bylaw in January. There's still work to be done, but progress is being made."
Ten years ago, ARIH members began urging the City of Gatineau to prioritize preserving the characteristic matchstick houses, constructed a century ago and emblematic of Hull. "It's disheartening to see many demolitions approved over the years, notes Mr. Cayley-Daoust. "But the city has recently instituted a moratorium on their demolition on Hull Island, while a preservation plan is drafted. We're aiming for a balance, preserving some buildings in areas with lower densification."
Rising 15 stories, the Éléonore residential complex is among those shaping Gatineau's growing skyline, located west of the Macdonald-Cartier Bridge. To make room for the project, eight old houses were demolished, but two historical buildings were preserved. These buildings, integral to the project, were never intended for destruction, according to Patrick Blanchette, associate architect and president of blanchette archi.design. "They form part of the site's DNA and helped define everything behind them," he explains. "Red brick was used extensively in the design to maintain unity. The brick contrasts with the metallic cladding also used, giving it a dynamic, almost mirrored look."
The Éléonore complex sought a LEED Gold certification from the start, says Dominic Chainé, operational partner and vice-president of Oktodev. "It was inevitable because the building is then designed with a more sustainable, more efficient operational perspective. This benefits the users and owner alike." The preservation of the two heritage buildings in itself is a sustainable gesture. "Sustainability is paramount in every aspect of the LEED project – from the design stage to the construction process," says David D. Boisseau, associate technical director at blanchette archi.design. "There are numerous obstacles to overcome, but the rewards are vitally important."
In September 2024, just four months after the opening of Éléonore, all 242 units were rented, reveals Laurence Lachance-Fiset, marketing director at Oktodev. "We've been brainstorming ideas for what we can offer more at the Alexandra, under construction nearby and set to open in 2026," says Chainé. The Alexandra will boast 314 units and a commercial space, in a 6 and 10-story building, also targeting a LEED certification.
- Steve Moran, a city councillor, highlights the transformation of Hull Island, noting, "Despite the past expropriations that led to the disappearance of a significant supermarket and the relocation of thousands, the island is witnessing a revival in real estate, with ambitious residential projects underway, financed through a tax credit program."
- Patrick Blanchette, an associate architect, discusses the balancing act of development and preservation in Hull, saying, "While older matchstick houses on Hull Island are being demolished for new real-estate projects, we ensure that historical buildings are preserved as part of our commitment to sustainability, which is a key factor in the LEED certification process."
