An architectural icon and landmark of Montreal’s skyline, the Olympic Stadium is undergoing a major transformation: the complete replacement of its roof. The consortium of ACDF Architecture and Lemay is leading the architectural design, in alignment with the guiding principles established by the Société du parc Olympique’s master team — GMP, Schlaich Bergermann Partner (SBP), WSP, and PMA — in collaboration with engineers WPM, ELEMA, and BPA, and the GCPC construction team led by Pomerleau and Canam. The new fixed roof, designed for long-term durability, will feature a glass ring admitting natural light and framing views of the mast and cables. A lighter steel framework will replace the technical ring, reducing structural load. This heritage-driven intervention both preserves Roger Taillibert’s original vision and reaffirms the Stadium’s role as a cultural, sporting, and civic landmark for Montreal and Quebec.
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An architectural symbol and a landmark of Montreal’s skyline, the Olympic Stadium is currently undergoing a major transformation: the complete replacement of its roof. This large-scale project, of exceptional technical complexity, aims to provide the building with a durable, high-performance roof that meets contemporary standards, while integrating harmoniously with the original work designed by Roger Taillibert.
The consortium formed by ACDF Architecture and Lemay is responsible for the architectural design, in alignment with the guiding principles established by the master team of the Société du parc Olympique, composed of GMP, SBB (Schlaich Bergermann Partner), WSP, and PMA. ACDF and Lemay work in close collaboration with engineers WPM, ELEMA, and BPA, as well as with the entire construction team led by Pomerleau and Canam, grouped under the name GCPC for this project.
The new fixed roof, designed for a long service life, will feature a continuous glass ring around its perimeter that will not only allow natural light to penetrate the stadium’s interior, but will also offer spectators a direct view of the mast and the cables supporting the central roof. The technical ring will also be completely replaced with a lighter steel framework, reducing the load on the existing concrete brackets and thereby contributing to the longevity of the structure. This design will showcase the beauty and ingenuity of the stadium, allowing its unique character to be fully appreciated — a true celebration of the genius loci of this iconic place.
The project follows an integrated approach in which every decision considers the existing structure, safety requirements, energy performance, and long-term durability. The new roof is being designed to withstand the most extreme climatic conditions, while maximizing natural light and ventilation.
Beyond a technical intervention, this project represents both a heritage-driven transformation and a functional reinvention. By extending the life of this emblematic monument, it reaffirms the Olympic Stadium’s place as a major hub for sporting, cultural, and event activities, as well as a strong identity landmark for Montreal and Quebec.