The buildings that make you stop and wonder what they are and how they came
to be.
Whether the architecture, the scale, or simply their air of mystery, these
properties stand out, and often have fascinating stories tied to them. They form
part of our shared urban heritage, linking the past to the future, and remind us
that every street and structure contributes to the living story of our city.
Today, I am incredibly proud to share that I have been entrusted with the sale of
one of those rare gems: 4545 Notre-Dame Ouest.
Built during the Expo ‘67 era as a tribute to the bold new spirit of modern
architecture, this property is a piece of Montréal’s history. It represents a time of optimism, creativity, and ambition; a time when innovation was celebrated, and
dreamers shaped the skyline.
Designed in 1965, and completed in 1966, by architect Henri Brillon of Leroux et
Associés, this jewel was originally constructed for Caisse Desjardins, and
remarkably, they have been its only occupants since. For nearly six decades it
has stood witness to the evolution of the Sud-Ouest.
Set on a generous 14,000+ sq. ft. lot, this standalone structure sits gracefully
beside a towering church and a park that unfolds across the street. The setting
alone gives it a unique presence, but the architecture is beyond.
As you approach, a bold, smooth concrete overhang protrudes dramatically over
the entrance, an elegant but brash hallmark of the mid-century design.
Inside: Find spacious offices, still-in-place teller counters, and a great vault
tucked into the basement. These are unique reminders of the building’s original
purpose, enduring strength, and lasting purpose of growth and shelter.
Will it become a head office for the next enterprise? A residential project? A
vibrant restaurant or cultural hub? Time will tell, and whatever its next purpose,
4545 Notre-Dame Ouest will once again embody the creativity and ambition that
defined its birth in dynamic St-Henri neighbourhood.