1000 de La Gauchetière

1000 de La Gauchetière is a prominent skyscraper in the downtown core of Montreal, Quebec. Completed in 1992, it stands as one of the tallest buildings in Canada and is a defining feature of the city's skyline. The tower is renowned for its distinctive postmodern architecture and for housing the largest indoor skating rink in a skyscraper. It forms a key part of the Montreal Underground City and is a major hub for commercial and recreational activity.

History

The development of the site was initiated by the real estate firm Cadillac Fairview during a period of significant construction in downtown Montreal. Construction began in 1989, with PCL Construction serving as the main contractor, amidst the city's ongoing expansion of its underground network. The tower was completed and officially opened in 1992, a period that also saw the completion of other major projects like 1250 René-Lévesque. Its development was concurrent with the growth of the REM light rail network planning. The building's opening reinforced the commercial importance of the area near Gare Centrale and the World Trade Centre Montreal.

Architecture

Designed by the architectural firm Lemay Michaud Architecture Design, the structure exhibits a sleek postmodern style characterized by its granite and glass façade. The crown of the building is notably illuminated at night, contributing to the nocturnal profile of Montreal. A key architectural feature is the vast, naturally lit atrium that rises through the base of the tower, which houses its famous skating rink. The structural engineering was managed by NCK Engineering, ensuring the integration of large interior spaces within the high-rise form. The design facilitates a direct connection to the Montreal Metro via the Bonaventure station.

Tenants and facilities

The tower serves as a premier office address, with major tenants including the global accounting firm Deloitte and the financial institution National Bank of Canada. Its most notable facility is a full-sized, publicly accessible indoor skating rink, a unique amenity for a skyscraper. The complex also contains retail spaces, restaurants, and a food court integrated into the Montreal Underground City. Other significant occupants have included the law firm Fasken and various international corporations. The building is directly connected to the Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth hotel and Gare Centrale.

Records and recognition

Upon its completion, 1000 de La Gauchetière became the tallest building in Montreal, a title it held until being surpassed by 1250 René-Lévesque in 1993. It remains among the top five tallest structures in the city, alongside Place Ville Marie and the Tour de la Bourse. The building's indoor skating rink is recognized as the largest of its kind contained within a skyscraper. It has received awards for its architectural design and engineering from organizations like the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada. The tower is a listed site within the inventory of significant contemporary architecture in Quebec.

In popular culture

The distinctive silhouette of the building has featured in numerous films and television series set in Montreal, including scenes in the action film *The Score* and the television drama *19-2*. It has been used as a filming location for projects by NFB and various international productions. The skating rink is a popular backdrop for seasonal television specials and has been featured in promotional materials for Tourism Montreal. The tower's illuminated crown is often highlighted in cinematic shots of the Montreal skyline at night.

Category:Skyscrapers in Montreal Category:Buildings and structures completed in 1992