Canadas Habitat 67 An Example Of Timeless And Unique Architecture

Sometimes, strange and unusual structures become famous simply because they are unique and different

. Often, this fame is fleeting and temporary, and the buildings involved are quickly forgotten. Some, though, stand the test of time. One of them is Habitat 67 in Montreal, Canada.

Habitat 67 is an impressive work of architectural design and engineering prowess. It is one of the oddest modern structures in the world, but it definitely sets an example for practical housing concepts of today. It was built for the 1967 International and Universal Exposition which was held in Montreal, Quebec. Architects and people who love to see and explore unusual places should definitely visit this iconic place. It is worth the time, money, and effort of meeting difficult visa requirements such as purchasing Super Visa insurance.

More than Just an Experiment

Habitat 67 was designed by architect Moshe Safdie, who was only 29 years old at that time. It was an oddity back then, and today it remains as a unique structure that is associated with Montreal in particular and Canada in general. It was treated as an experiment of sorts, an attempt by Safdie to formulate an affordable and economical method of providing housing for people in urban areas.

It was designed with the following things in mind:

"Urban areas are expected to become more crowded, thus justifying the vertical inclination of housing construction.

"People in urban communities can still enjoy the comforts of a suburban home (ex: a garden, backyard, porch or terrace).

"It is possible to attain and maintain these suburban comforts without taking up too much space or requiring too much maintenance from homeowners.

There were originally 158 apartment units, but some of them have been merged to create larger living spaces over the years. Safdie had also wanted to make Habitat 67 an example of affordable urban housing, but he failed on that score. The complex became so famous and the units very in-demand that the prices shot through the roof. Still, foreigners and locals alike who are looking for temporary and permanent residences are drawn to Habitat 67. The idea of living in such a popular and exciting place is definitely appealing.

A Tourist Destination

This giant, concrete structure basically resembles Lego pieces piled randomly on top of each other without a clear pattern. The design is truly mind-boggling; it simply begs to be photographed and thoroughly explored. Be prepared to get lost though, because there are so many staircases, corridors, outdoor squares, and the like scattered all over the complex that it's so easy to lose your sense of direction.

Visitors pour into Habitat 67 daily. Outsiders have to pay a modest $2.50 entrance fee. Many climb to the higher levels of the complex that are still accessible to the public (there are privately owned penthouses as well) to see the impressive view of the St. Lawrence River, Notre Dame Island, and the city in the distance. If you're looking for interesting places to visit in Montreal, don't forget Habitat 67.

by: Corvin Holmes

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