Located in the historic and environmentally important district of Mont-Royal, the site of Maplewood castle is an essential and institutional part of the mountain. The site is of importance both historically and environmentally. Located on the side of mountain, the site is backed by the Saint-Jean-Baptiste woods - vegetation that surrounds the building and adds a charm to the entire site. The distinguishing features of the landscape and architecture serve as guidelines for the project’s development concept: emphasis of the existing topography; creation of a dialogue between the tiered landscape and the architecture; continuity with the mature woodland tree canopy; elaboration of the spirit of the existing tree cover on green roofs; the emphasis of the triangular geometry of the site in the broader landscape; conservation and enhancement of the majority of the original slopes and stone stairs; creation of gardens whose vegetation invokes the nature of the mountain in a geometry that interacts with the building.

The main goal of the design is to realign, reduce and rationalize circulation and paved surfaces. A minimum of parking space is located near the entrance. The paving of the entry is interrupted by a stone courtyard that emphasizes the main entrance and its connection to the new monumental staircase leading to boulevard Mont-Royal. In the back area, parking surfaces are completely removed to make way for landscape and footpaths. The paths frame elements of the landscape and topography and provide connections between different levels. The majority of the stones in the stairs are preserved and restored. The implementation of water management basins reflects the desire to express the innovative nature of the project. The implementation and design of the types of basins is done with respect towards the landscape and the existing topography. This component will add educational value to the project and will be an undeniable precedent in terms of sustainable development. The storm water management is particularly important given that the site has a steep incline, such management at the surface also provides better treatment of pollutants in runoff.

The gesture of the landscape of the interior courtyards that extends up the facades continues on to the roofs. The green roofs consist of private wooden decks and extensively vegetated surfaces. The choice of plantation on the roofs will be done with colours and textures of different plant species to continue the interplay of diagonals on the site.