A winning food court by GH+A

The Quebec-wide design competition, LES GRANDS PRIX DU DESIGN, rewards the most noteworthy achievements in interior design by industry professionals. The competition was born from a partnership between Intérieurs, a design magazine dedicated to the promotion of design and FERDIE, an educational foundation whose mission is to encourage excellence in interior design, both aiming to recognize the contribution of interior design professionals at enhancing the quality of life for Quebecers, and to acknowledge their design talents.

The PID (Production Interface Design) Agency that is behind the organization of the competition Les GRANDS PRIX DU DESIGN 2012 announced the winners yesterday night at a gala event at the Rialto Theatre in Montreal.

GH+A is a proud recipient of a design award for the food court transformation at Promenades Cathédrale, in collaboration with the project architect, le Groupe Archifin.

In its unique subterranean location below the Christ Church Cathedral on Sainte-Catherine Street, the food court has been entirely replanned and revamped. Bearing no resemblance to its former self, the food court is a refuge of serenity and freshness amidst the constant rush of passersby.

The food court is punctuated by a series of large circular columns that act as the main structural support for the church overhead and for part of Sainte-Catherine Street. The capitals of the columns were treated with concentric circles and a large scale illuminated circular saucer giving the impression of additional height beyond the lit cove. The columns are clad in white mosaic adding texture and a weightless quality to the otherwise massive columns. A signature element of the food court is a stylized floral motif that is organic than it is feminine.

About GH+A

Founded 27 years ago, GH+A’s visionary approach to retail design focuses on creating dynamic environments including specialty store design, shopping centre refurbishments, mixed-use retail programming and strategic brand positioning. GH+A is a powerful and versatile force in the retail design and branding universe. With offices located in Montreal, Quebec and Detroit, Michigan, they design for an international market.  www.ghadesign.com