Designed to effectively meet the needs of its occupants, the new CEDFOB Boreal Forest Research and Innovation Pavilion spans three levels with a simple, optimized volume. The pavilion’s all-wood structure employs two distinct systems tailored to the functional requirements of the program. A exposed solid wood structure (glulam) is used for the double-height lobby and interpretation hall, while the remaining classroom and office spaces utilize a lightweight wood framing system.

This project stands as an architectural hallmark for the Baie-Comeau community and the CÉGEP, as well as a showcase for boreal forest research and innovation.

The architectural concept for the building draws heavily on the characteristic elements of the forest, which have shaped the formalization and modulation of the facades and the selection of materials. A landscape-driven approach was explored around the themes of tree verticality and rhythm, the alternation of solids and voids, visual permeability through the forest canopy, and the interplay of shadows and perceptions evoked by the forest. These principles are translated into architecture through the superposition of varying-sized wooden slats on a reflective metallic aluminum cladding that mirrors its surroundings.

The wooden slats—crafted from pre-weathered eastern white cedar—are densely arranged on the upper floor and more sparsely positioned at eye level, echoing the natural morphology of trees. With its clean lines, the building volume is animated by this facade treatment, as well as by an overhang that guides visitors to the main entrance along a path reminiscent of a forest stroll. The pavilion blends harmoniously into its site and captures the attention of passersby with its striking presence and evocative imagery of the boreal forest.