In architecture, enhancing and reusing existing heritage is essential. Renovating buildings or redeveloping urban brownfields should take precedence over constructing new developments on the urban periphery. Requalification is part of a sustainable development approach: it builds on the architecture and history of a place to meet contemporary needs. Transforming rather than demolishing preserves the memory of a neighborhood while reducing our ecological footprint. Reclaiming neglected sites also helps strengthen the urban fabric and create lively, distinctive spaces rich in history.

Siboire Microbrasserie perfectly illustrates this approach through the transformation of a former paint store. The mandate included the redesign of the building façades as well as the creation of an outdoor terrace conceived in the spirit of a beer garden, offering a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Large garage doors extend the dining area and create a strong connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Vegetation plays a key role in the design: shaded areas enhance user comfort, while plant screens—whose tones contrast with corten steel planters—add vibrancy and help structure the space.
The project’s layout also addresses the challenge of connecting Saint-Vallier Street on the main façade to Cardinal-Taschereau Street at the rear. The terrace unfolds over multiple levels, adapting to the natural topography that separates the two streets and offering a variety of ambiances across its terraces. Improved access for cyclists from the rear courtyard encourages active transportation and strengthens neighborhood connectivity. Dedicated installations allow bicycles to be parked securely, in keeping with Siboire’s identity.

The Siboire water bottle was born from a collaboration between Quinzhee and Siboire. A practical object designed for cyclists, it highlights a leisure activity and mode of transportation that lies at the heart of both companies’ values. Its graphic design, depicting the rear façade, illustrates the power of architecture to transform a blank wall and a parking lot into a vibrant place that serves its community.

Project Type: Commercial 
Year of Construction: 2024 
Location: Saint-Vallier Ouest Street, Québec City 
Client: Siboire Microbrasserie 
Contractor: Drolet Construction 
Engineer: St-Georges Structures et Civil 
Interior Design: Jean-Pierre Viau Design 
Landscape Design: Repères paysage durables 
Photographer: Anne Rousseau