A public solar-powered hangout lands in the Olympic Park this summer

The sprawling concrete landscape of the Olympic Park is where Montreal’s own Aire commune will unveil its Espace solaire, Quebec’s first fully solar-powered public space. The bright yellow structure offers more than just shade, as it transforms sunshine into electricity while providing a much-needed place to work, meet, or simply relax.

The installation is made up of canopies supported by wooden frames, integrated with comfortable seating areas, work tables, and built-in planter benches. Each unit includes high-speed Wi-Fi, electrical outlets for charging devices, and integrated solar panels to power the entire setup. The modular design creates a series of connected yet distinct spaces, with both covered and open-air seating arranged around central tables.

“L’Espace solaire du Parc olympique marks a key milestone for [our company]: our first permanent public space in Montreal,” said Philippe Pelletier, co-founder of Aire commune, in the official announcement. 

“This project embodies our vision to develop structured, sustainable, and accessible spaces. By fully integrating solar energy into the design, we're demonstrating that it’s possible to combine innovation, conviviality, and energy transition.”

A revitalization of Montreal's East End

With $800,000 in funding from the Quebec government’s Mesure de l’Est program, the project represents a significant investment in eastern Montreal’s development.

According to Pelletier, the Olympic Park location is strategically important as it serves approximately 3,000 employees and countless families and tourists visiting the site. It also functions as an entry point to the East End, an area slated for major revitalization in coming years.

The project represents the latest evolution in Aire commune’s journey, which began modestly in 2017 with a temporary installation in Mile End. What started as a side project in an empty parking lot—transforming concrete blocks into a gathering place—has grown into an operation with 20 full-time employees working on projects across Canada.

When COVID disrupted their business model, which once relied heavily on events and alcohol sales, the team pivoted by leveraging their design and production expertise. This led to the creation of their Îlots d’été concept—outdoor workspaces with WiFi that addressed pandemic-era needs.

Innovating with public space

Their first Îlot was a simple cabin with power outlets and WiFi, but it proved immensely popular. With public funding, they’ve expanded to more than 40 cabins across ten Montreal boroughs, all free to access from early May through October.

Espace solaire represents the culmination of this evolution—a permanent installation that combines their expertise in placemaking with sustainable technology. Beyond its practical amenities, the space will serve as a showcase for solar energy’s potential in Quebec.

For Aire commune, whose name literally means “common area,” the project aligns perfectly with their mission of creating innovative public spaces where people can connect. From their DIY beginnings to becoming leaders in urban design, they've maintained their focus on energizing city life through thoughtfully curated spaces.

The project is currently under construction and slated to open in summer 2025.