The process of industrial production was the source of inspiration for the project St-Germain Sewers and Aqueducts. Like a conduit, the design connects the various functions that integrate with the site. It also offers a distinctive signature to showcase the family business St-Germain Égouts et Aqueducs and its unique working environment. Experts in manufacturing sanitary pipes and guttering since 1953, the company sought new grounds to expand and equip itself with the latest installations.
The new head office is in St-Hubert, Quebec – in an industrial quarter next to fallow farmland and a residential zone. ACDF's design enables the company to manage four key areas: administration, internal warehousing, external storage and manufacturing. A building appears to be a wooden box floating in a water basin, while a massive glass wall showcases the inner workings of the warehouse. The water, inherent in drains and a nod to the business, is fed by rainwater and runoff from the roof and grounds.
In 2009, the project won an Excellence in Architecture Award from the Ordre des Architectes du Québec in the industrial architecture category of more than $2M.