McGill University

McGill University, located in the vibrant city of Montreal, Quebec, features custom site furnishings that enhance the campus environment.

Project Partners

No public partners for this project.

Used in this project

Site Furnishings

• Project Details
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  • Project Name: McGill University
  • Location: Montreal, Quebec, Canada
  • Year: 2019
  • Architect: Tessier Récréo-Parc 
  Products Used: Custom Site Furnishing

McGill University, one of Canada’s most prestigious institutions, is located in the heart of Montreal, Quebec. Known for its rich history, world-class education, and vibrant campus life, the university places equal importance on the quality of its outdoor spaces as it does on its academic facilities. In 2019, McGill undertook an initiative to enhance the campus environment through custom site furnishings that reflect both the functionality students need and the architectural beauty the campus is known for. The project was developed in collaboration with Tessier Récréo-Parc, with custom designs created by Aedifica. The centerpiece of these outdoor improvements includes elegantly designed wood benches and other seating structures that were carefully crafted to blend into McGill’s historic yet forward-thinking atmosphere. Each wooden bench was tailored to suit the university’s unique spaces, providing areas for students, staff, and visitors to relax, connect, and enjoy the outdoors throughout the year. What sets this project apart is the thoughtful choice of material. All of the custom furnishings were built from black locust lumber, a wood species highly regarded for its exceptional resilience and sustainability. Unlike many other hardwoods, black locust possesses a natural resistance to decay, insects, and moisture, making it a superior choice for exterior use in the Canadian climate. This ensures that each wooden bench will maintain its strength and appearance for decades, even under heavy daily use. Beyond its durability, black locust lumber also represents a commitment to environmental responsibility. As one of the most sustainable hardwoods available, black locust grows rapidly, requires no chemical treatment to preserve its longevity, and contributes positively to carbon sequestration. By choosing this material, McGill University underscored its dedication to eco-conscious practices and reduced the environmental footprint of the project. The result is a campus transformation that goes far beyond simple functionality. The wood benches and custom furnishings add warmth and character to McGill’s outdoor spaces, complementing the surrounding architecture while fostering a welcoming atmosphere. Students now have inviting places to study between classes, faculty can enjoy moments of quiet reflection, and visitors can appreciate the timeless beauty of the campus from thoughtfully placed seating areas. This project demonstrates how the careful integration of design, material selection, and sustainability can elevate public spaces. By using black locust lumber to craft long-lasting and environmentally responsible furnishings, McGill University has created an enduring model of how educational institutions can invest in the future—both for their community and for the planet.