In the Canadian landscape of architectural design, ADHOC Architects has carved out a distinctive niche over the past decade, blending creativity with context and community. Founded in Montreal, the firm has become well-known for it bold, contextually-rooted architectural solutions that push boundaries and redefine spaces.
Reflecting on the journey that defined ADHOC’s trajectory, Jean-François St-Onge, co-founder and principal architect, highlights pivotal moments that shaped the firm’s evolution. “From our early days, we aimed to create architecture that speaks directly to its purpose and environment,” he explains. “Receiving the Grand Prix de la Relève in 2018 was a significant milestone, affirming our credibility and opening doors to larger projects like Canoë in 2020 and Gadbois in 2023.”
The firm’s expansion into interior design services in 2020 marked a strategic move towards offering comprehensive solutions, while the integration of landscape architects in 2024 underscored ADHOC’s commitment to holistic design practices. “Each step was a deliberate effort to enhance our multidisciplinary approach,” says St-Onge, “aligning with our new brand that emphasizes human-centric design.”
The name ADHOC itself reflects the firm’s commitment to tailored solutions. “Adhoc means ‘created specifically for something,’” says St-Onge. “It embodies our approach of assembling teams uniquely suited to tackle complex challenges, much like our Consortium project.” This spirit permeates the firm’s culture, fostering an environment that promotes passion and innovation.
ADHOC’s architectural philosophy has evolved in tandem with its growth. “We’re fascinated by the landscapes and urban fabric of the Northeast,” says St-Onge. “Our approach involves playing with existing architectural languages, transforming them to create something entirely new rather than borrowing from other contexts.”
This commitment to design is exemplified in projects like the Chalet Baie-de-Valois, where functional elements blend seamlessly with aesthetic appeal. “The design integrates three distinct landscape layers,” St-Onge describes, “mirroring the natural stratification of the environment to enhance both functionality and visual harmony.”
Celebrating 10 years in 2024 is a testament to ADHOC’s resilience and vision. “Early on, a mentor told us that the first five to seven years are the hardest,” says St-Onge. “Surviving that period allowed us to establish our name and expertise.” St.-Onge attributes their success to a dedicated team and robust partnerships that have propelled them forward, emphasizing that collaboration is at the heart of every project.
As ADHOC looks to the future, sustainability and community-centric design remain paramount. “We envision an architecture that is less about ego and more about ecology,” says St-Onge. “Addressing the housing crisis with affordable and well-designed solutions is a priority, and we’re committed to partnering with young entrepreneurs to innovate in this space.” To those entering the field, St-Onge offers suggest to “Define your values and stay true to your mission. Building a resilient foundation is crucial for navigating the challenges ahead.”
Sustainability plays a critical role in ADHOC’s projects, evident in initiatives like the UTILE residence, which features innovative insulation and energy-efficient design. Community engagement is equally significant, and can be seen in projects such as the revitalization of Place Wellington in Verdun, where citizen input shaped the final design.
As ADHOC architects commemorates its 10th anniversary, it stands as a out for its innovation and community-centric design in the architectural landscape. For St-Onge, the most fulfilling aspect of leading ADHOC is witnessing the growth of his team. “Seeing employees develop ideas better than my own or manage projects with such dedication is deeply gratifying,” he reflects. “Their passion drives our success and inspires me every day.”
For more information, please visit www.adhoc-architectes.com/en/
