March 10, 2021
NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Brigil founder and President Gilles Desjardins has once again demonstrated his commitment to Gatineau and his determination to contribute to the economic recovery of its downtown, by purchasing 35 rue Laurier, a property that includes the Marriott’s Sheraton Hotel, the adjacent parking lot and the former Notre-Dame-de-Grâce presbytery, which currently houses a conference centre. Having this property end up in the hands of a local developer who loves the city is great news for Gatineau.
For the past 35 years, Brigil has been following a long-term development vision for the region, working closely with municipalities and local stakeholders. Protecting and valorizing local heritage and historic buildings is part of that vision. The importance of protecting the environment is also a reflection of Brigil’s family and corporate values. The Brigil team is inspired by the desire to create "15-Minute Neighbourhoods" that promote active transportation and public transit, local shopping and a vibrant culture, while reducing automobile dependency. This vision of the ever-evolving collective well-being is what makes the company a builder with purpose.
“Today, I am very proud to announce that Brigil will be acquiring the 201-room Sheraton Hotel, which was renovated in 2019. This strategically located property, across from the Canadian Museum of History, is connected to our major institutions (Maison du citoyen, Palais de justice and Place du Centre and Gatineau Congress Centre). I am committed to promoting Gatineau’s development and reputation, and the entire team is determined to turn this into a magnificent project that will bring people together,” indicated Mr. Desjardins.
One particularly thrilling aspect of this transaction is the former Notre-Dame-de-Grâce presbytery, which will become Brigil’s third heritage building after the Ferme Columbia (376 boul. St-Joseph) and Henry Burger (69 rue Laurier) restaurants. “Preserving our region’s architectural gems and giving them their full due is a pillar of our mission as builders with purpose,” explained Kevin Desjardins, Architectural Designer. “We are always on the lookout for special treasures that we can protect for our community’s well-being and future generations,” added Gilles Desjardins.
The 35 Laurier Street site offers significant development potential to revitalize downtown Gatineau. “Our goal is to create a project that reflects Gatineau’s identity and whose beauty will be a source of inspiration far and wide, with a particular focus on valorizing the heritage value of the Quartier du Musée,” indicated Jessy Desjardins, Vice-President, Development and Design.
About Brigil
Founded in 1985 by Gilles Desjardins, Brigil has greatly contributed to the economic development of the National Capital Region. Brigil has provided homes for an entire generation, and intends to continue building for those to come. Closely linked to the communities it serves, Brigil has donated several million dollars to more than 300 organizations in the National Capital Region. Gilles Desjardins has also been recognized as one of Quebec's greatest patrons of the arts, and was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal of Canada by the Governor General on November 5, 2018. The company currently has some 30 communities in the National Capital Region (12,000 units) and plans to build 33,000 new housing units over the next 15 years. Sustainable development and environmental protection are part of Brigil's DNA, as is the enhancement of heritage and historic buildings. This is why our mission goes beyond that of a builder. We build with purpose.
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For additional information
Catherine Patry
Senior Director, Communication and Marketing
Brigil
cpatry@brigil.com
514-977-6857
