Grands-Bâtisseurs Elementary School
- LocationQuébec (Québec)
- ClientCentre de services scolaire des Premières-Seigneuries
- year2023
- TeamABCP + Leclerc architectes
- PHOTOStéphane Groleau
A school between river and mountains.
Perched on the heights of Beauport, Grands-Bâtisseurs Elementary School is rooted in an exceptional site where natural landscapes, the city, and the St. Lawrence River converge. Designed as a true neighbourhood school, it provides a bright and welcoming learning environment where architecture celebrates the surrounding landscape while fostering student well-being.
The school accommodates 17 classrooms, a double gymnasium, dedicated art and music rooms, generous daycare facilities, and a central learning commons. The building takes full advantage of the site's topography, offering remarkable views of Québec City, Île d'Orléans, and Cap Diamant. Classroom wings are carefully arranged to shelter the schoolyard from prevailing winds while preserving optimal sunlight throughout the day. An outdoor classroom nestled beneath the surrounding woodland extends learning opportunities into nature.
The architectural concept is organized around a generously glazed learning street that serves as the heart of the school. Classrooms, collaborative learning areas, and social spaces are arranged along this light-filled circulation spine, creating a continuous relationship between the interior and the surrounding landscape. Like an extension of the natural environment, the interior spaces flow seamlessly from one to another, blurring the boundaries between architecture and nature. Through its thoughtful siting, strong connection to the landscape, and exceptional quality of its shared spaces, Grands-Bâtisseurs Elementary School offers an inspiring, welcoming environment deeply connected to its community.
