Champlain urban village by Brigil: like ripe fruit.

The realization of Champlain Urban Village in Gatineau is the result of careful, long-term work, aligned with the core principles of sustainable development, aiming to minimize the ecological footprint of its residents.

The idea behind this project is not new. Businessman Gilles Desjardins first walked the site in 1992 and began dreaming big for this vast land, which he ultimately acquired in 2001. His vision was ahead of its time: densification and sustainable development—concepts that were then little known. The developer demonstrated patience, waiting for economic conditions and community needs to align.

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A Model

Champlain Urban Village is intended as a model of real estate development at the forefront of contemporary environmental and urban planning concerns. It places people at the center of its design, ensuring they feel comfortable and safe. Residents can optimize their time and move easily within this large-scale community.

The project also integrates sustainable mobility, including access to public transit, pedestrian pathways, and dedicated bike lanes. Ultimately, the development will be a “15-minute neighborhood,” where daily errands and a variety of activities are accessible within a 15-minute walk or bike ride. The village will be rich in local and ethical businesses.

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A Dedicated Team

Brigil has always defined itself as a “citizen builder,” striving to create innovative projects designed for future generations and mindful of environmental concerns. The Brigil team, composed of local professionals, is committed to delivering this exceptional project for the region. Like a fruit ripened for harvest, the project’s vision has matured over many years, with several iterations designed by professionals whose creativity serves the community.

This project is the result of collaboration between Brigil experts, the City, and residents who participated in public consultations. It is a unifying project for the Outaouais, offering an unparalleled quality of life.

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A Complete Community

Champlain Urban Village is a fully integrated community where people can live, socialize, work, and play. The design team focused on creating spaces that encourage human interaction and community engagement. The development will also feature ample green, recreational, and entertainment spaces.

The project is nestled among five prestigious golf clubs for enthusiasts, and 50 acres have been dedicated to the City to create parks and green spaces for everyone to enjoy. Brigil worked closely with forest engineers to identify areas to protect, ensuring the majority of mature forest is preserved and enhanced.

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A Protected Environment

Taking full advantage of surrounding natural spaces, the new neighborhood is built with respect for the site’s ponds and wooded areas. These efforts are essential to preserving the ecological integrity of the Ottawa River and Gatineau Park. Local biodiversity will be further supported through the addition of native flowers and plants that require no fertilization, along with community gardens. A rainwater collection system ensures water is gradually absorbed into the soil rather than overwhelming sewers.

Finally, a network of heavily vegetated trails, serving as an ecological corridor, will connect natural areas, allowing wildlife and plant species to move freely and preserve regional biodiversity.

Our goal is to provide residents with a place to live a fulfilling life while minimizing their ecological footprint. As an ethical and eco-conscious developer, our responsibility extends beyond construction. Developing a community in this area helps protect the urban perimeter, while conserving the region’s natural environment remains a top priority.

Jessy Desjardins, Vice President, Development and Design, Brigil

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