History of the Intendant’s Residence in Montreal and Architectural Convenance in New France

In 2018, the remains of a large, luxurious 18th-century building and part of the city fortifications were uncovered in Montreal. The house was the second official residence of the intendant of New France. Built before 1713, it underwent major changes in 1726–1731 and in 1749, taking on the appearance of an hôtel particulier—a residence whose architecture and ornamentation were designed to reflect the noble status of its occupants. When the house was enlarged, the city’s fortifications were under construction. The fact that both structures were being worked on simultaneously had an impact on each of them. The remains uncovered reflect the complexity of developing a city within its fortifications, as well as the relationship among cities, their protection, and the natural environment, leading to a discussion of architectural convenance in New France, a concept in which a building must reflect its functions and the social status of its occupants.