Louis Pelletier, a general contractor specializing in built heritage, came to share his passion and experience with us January 19, 2010. Here is, in three parts, an account of his lecture.
The first project that Mr. Pelletier worked on was a veterinary clinic with whom he was dealing. He was convinced that restoring to its former glory the building which had became vanilla over time, the clinic would increase its credibility and therefore its customers. The future would prove him right, since the vet has actually tripled its turnover after restoration.
More examples will support this state of fact. Honestly, what bouiboui will attract customers as would a historic estate with a beautiful terrace? The built heritage is a major tourist attraction throughout the Laurentian region, home to a veritable medley of buildings, which adds to the mountainous terrain typical of the region. The town of Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts has now an excellent reputation, because it has found again its true old charm and thus impresses tourists. The electric wires are now buried, they changed the streetlights, built parks, renovated landscaping. It makes a pleasant place to visit and to live in. (Interestingly, 80% to 90% of buildings in the city center of Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts lack parking spaces. This does not preclude the place to be alive.)
Creating a sense of belonging among youth
Each restored building creates a ripple effect, nourrishes residents' pride, attracts the confidences of witnesses who come to offer with emotions pictures, which will enrich a unique historical photo collection. Indeed, Mr. Pelletier boasts a collection of old photographs rivaling those of Montréal and Québec City. The citizens of Ste-Agathe, now attached to their heritage, are now vigilant against any development that could threaten the integrity of historic places. High school students have taken the initiative to recreate the main street of their city in the corridor at their school. The murals show youngsters riding on skateboards in front of historic buildings. They are accompanied by old photographs with anecdotes. The school management had no choice but to submit the artwork to Essor*, which the students have won.
* To know what the price Essor: http://www.mcccf.gouv.qc.ca/index.php?id=2022
In the coming days: Taking advantage of Our Uniqueness
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