CARGOarchitecture brings together a team of talented professionals, including experienced architects, specialized building technicians, and interior designers. Our proactive and collaborative approach is distinguished by open communication and collective decision-making. CARGOarchitecture embodies a strong image that beautifully reflects our practice: it is about transportation, the sharing of knowledge, and the movement of ideas in a common direction. The modern ship is a powerful symbol for us, representing a system where every detail matters and each piece results from a thoughtful design act. The cargo concept also illustrates our rigor in meeting deliverables, a key factor in the quality and success of a project.
Founded in 2006 in Toronto as CGBWstudio by Charles-Bernard Gagnon and relocated to Quebec City in 2008, the firm has stood out in the greater Quebec City market thanks to its philosophy and commitment to providing high-quality professional service at every stage of the process. This approach has allowed it to build a portfolio of innovative projects. In 2013, the team chose a more meaningful name, becoming CARGOarchitecture.
CHARLES-BERNARD GAGNON FOUNDING ARCHITECT, OAQ
Architectural Services
CARGOarchitecture offers a comprehensive range of professional architectural services with a proactive integrated design approach:
- Project Development: Site analysis, potential study Social acceptability strategies and planning
- Design and production of plans and specifications.
- Project Modeling Management: Integrated BIM (Building Information Modeling) design
- Regulatory Strategies: Regulations, site study, energy and sunlight analysis
- Urban Design: Master planning, landscape design, and civil engineering works
- 3D Visualization: 3D perspectives, modeling, and animations
- Construction Service and Management: Construction administration and site supervision
Interior Design Services
CARGOarchitecture offers diverse expertise in interior design, combining sustainability, elegance, and functionality with smart layouts aligned with your company's values, enhancing its image and recruitment capacity:
- Active Client Listening: Space programming and planning, budget analysis
- Concept Development: Production of plans and specifications, material selection, conceptualization of integrated furniture and custom objects
- Integrated Signage: Modeling and production of plans and specifications
- 3D Visualization: 3D perspectives, modeling, and animations
Planning and Expertise Services
CARGOarchitecture offers diverse expertise in building planning, programming, and inspection, using rigorous and systematic methods to clearly define client needs and requirements.
- Development of Functional and Technical Programs (FTP): Intervention strategies, general characteristics of organization, functionality, and areas
- Feasibility Study and Preconcepts: Analysis of technical and regulatory conditions and constraints
- Technical Expertise: Identification of waterproofing issues and premature aging, life cycle analysis
Project Phases
PRECONCEPTUAL STUDIES
A preparatory phase that helps understand and document the needs and functions of a building to establish its scope.
DESIGN PHASE
This phase includes site examination, program review, initial sketch design, and a preliminary budget analysis.
DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
Once the sketches are approved, we develop the project in more detail by creating the necessary preliminary plans, sections, and elevations.
CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS
This is the actual development of the technical plans required for construction.
TENDER
We assist and advise the client in the analysis of general contractor bids and the signing of the construction contract.
SITE SUPERVISION
We ensure that the project is executed faithfully according to the plans. We provide solutions to adapt the design to any unforeseen issues on the construction site.
CARGOarchitecture is dedicated to sustainable building solutions, focusing on minimizing environmental impacts from construction to reuse. Through Life Cycle Analysis (LCA), we optimize resources and reduce waste, designing eco-friendly buildings for present and future generations.
Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) evaluates a building's environmental impact from design to demolition. It includes material extraction, manufacturing, transport, construction, use, and recycling. CARGOarchitecture's design approach uses LCA to identify critical points and enhance sustainability. This method reduces embodied carbon and pollutants, optimizes energy and resources, and minimizes waste. By integrating LCA, we ensure optimal ecological performance throughout the building's life and recycling.
At CARGOarchitecture, our team is our greatest asset. Comprised of talented professionals with diverse skills, it brings together a variety of experiences. Each member contributes their unique expertise to deliver innovative and high-quality solutions, always respecting our clients' goals. Together, we create enriching spaces and add value to every project.
Charles-Bernard Gagnon
Principal Architect | OAQ, DPLG, AIBC
Charles-Bernard Gagnon
Principal Architect | OAQ, DPLG, AIBC
Charles-Bernard is a member of the Ordre des Architectes du Québec and the Ordre des Architectes d'Ile-de-France in Paris, with over 30 years of experience in designing and constructing projects across two continents. As the founder of CARGOarchitecture, he leads a talented team specializing in creating commercial and residential spaces. He embodies a functionalist and humanist design approach, aiming to add value for occupants and their environments.
Nicolas Harvey
Architect | OAQ
Nicolas Harvey
Architect | OAQ
Nicolas joined CARGOarchitecture in 2015 and holds the position of associate architect at the firm. He pays close attention to each project, focusing on creating spaces that offer superior quality of life for occupants while keeping the client's aspirations and strategic objectives in mind throughout the development process. His experience as a designer is a major asset to the success of the firm's projects.
Gabriel Morissette
Senior Technician
Gabriel Morissette
Senior Technician
Gabriel joined CARGOarchitecture in 2008 and has played a crucial role in the firm's growth and the development of all completed projects. Gabriel is a senior technician with over 17 years of experience. He possesses strong technical skills and an in-depth knowledge of materials, construction techniques, and industry standards.
Guillaume Dion-Marin
Chief Technical Coordinator
Guillaume Dion-Marin
Chief Technical Coordinator
Guillaume Dion-Marin joined CARGOarchitecture in 2016 to coordinate the firm's highly complex and diverse projects. He has remarkable expertise in the manufacturing of construction components, building envelopes, and facade systems. With his exceptional ability to execute demanding architectural concepts, he holds the position of Chief Technical Coordinator.
Jean-Philippe Lavoie
Architectural Technician
Jean-Philippe Lavoie
Architectural Technician
Jean-Philippe joined CARGOarchitecture in 2016 and quickly advanced to the role of project manager. Over the years, he has gained extensive experience, becoming a seasoned site supervisor, particularly in the multi-residential sector. His complete dedication to each project makes him a meticulous technician, known for his attention to detail and commitment to delivering precise and high-quality work.
Katia Foucault-Lemieux
Interior Designer
Katia Foucault-Lemieux
Interior Designer
Katia joined CARGOarchitecture in 2022, bringing her enthusiasm and expertise in interior design. With over 15 years of experience, she is dynamic and professional, excelling in managing multiple projects simultaneously. Her autonomy, teamwork, and attention to detail make her a valuable asset in designing innovative spaces, producing plans and specifications, managing interior layouts, and selecting finishing materials.
Antoine Farley
Senior Technician
Antoine Farley
Senior Technician
Antoine joined our team in 2023 as a senior technician with over 12 years of experience. He oversees high-rise residential projects within our firm. His ability to adapt to any situation is remarkable. Antoine enjoys sharing his knowledge with colleagues and is fully committed to all projects assigned to him. He provides technical support to the design and construction teams, resolving any technical issues that may arise.
Félix Andres Castro
Draftsman
Félix Andres Castro
Draftsman
Félix joined CARGOarchitecture in 2022. With his drafting skills, he quickly became involved in a multitude of projects. With over 10 years of experience in the industrial field, Félix places great importance on details. He demonstrates exemplary diligence in completing his tasks and always meets deadlines
Sophie Côté
Office manager
Sophie Côté
Office manager
Sophie joined CARGOarchitecture in 2022 as an office manager. With over 20 years of experience, she brings valuable expertise and essential skills to effectively support the firm's daily operations. Her keen sense of organization and impeccable time management skills enable Sophie to excel in handling a wide range of administrative tasks, significantly contributing to the smooth functioning of the company.
Sam Savard
Architectural Technician
Sam Savard
Architectural Technician
Sam Savard holds a technical degree in architecture and quickly stood out for the depth and precision of his work. He continued his path at CARGOarchitecture, where he now plays a key role within the technical production team. Efficient, rigorous, curious, and reliable, he actively contributes to the quality and fluid execution of the firm’s projects.
Zakary Gray
Draftsman
Zakary Gray
Draftsman
Zakary Gray began his professional journey as a pastry chef before turning to architectural drafting—an experience that sharpened his attention to detail, precision, and discipline. Within the team, he develops the project's virtual models and technical documentation, while maintaining a strong interest in every phase of the architectural process.
Yu Xiang Wu
Interior Designer
Yu Xiang Wu
Interior Designer
Yu Xiang joined the CARGOarchitecture team after completing his technical training in interior design. Proficient with digital tools, he approaches each project with both enthusiasm and precision. Driven by a passion for materials and spatial quality, he excels at crafting interior atmospheres that align seamlessly with the architecture, where use and aesthetics come together.
Humbert Gelas
Architectural Intern
Humbert Gelas
Architectural Intern
Training to become an architect, Humbert Gelas approaches each project as a learning opportunity grounded in rigor and curiosity. Through his internships, he has explored design, research, and construction methods with a methodical mindset. He is equally drawn to ideas and their execution, engaging fully in the complete architectural process.
We are proud of the awards and distinctions we have received over the years. These recognitions testify to our commitment to excellence and innovation in architecture. Our residential, commercial, and institutional projects have been praised for their exceptional design, functionality, and positive impact on communities.
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2021
CHARPENTES MONTMORENCY FACTORY
CECOBOIS Award of Excellence Nominee - Industrial Building | Sustainable Development
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2021
JDHM-HEADQUARTERS
CECOBOIS Award of Excellence Nominee - Structural Concept
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2021
OIKOS CONSTRUCTION HEADQUARTERS
CECOBOIS Award of Excellence Nominee - Commercial Building under 1,000 m²
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2019
Le Campe, Rental Refuge
Nobilis Award Winner - New Homes, $275,000 to $350,000
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2018
PLAZA iA
Québec City Architecture Awards Winner - Exterior Signage
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2017
TOURS DE LA POINTE PAVILION
CECOBOIS Award of Excellence Winner - Architectural Details Nominee - Commercial Building under 1,000 m² Nominee - Interior Design
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2016
Villa Boréale
Le Soleil - Newspaper Publication - By Michèle LaFerrière
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2015
Villa Boréale
Architizer | ArchDaily | Dezeen Publication
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2015
KIMOLI
Québec City Architecture Awards Winner - Housing Renovation or Expansion
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2015
TOURS DE LA POINTE PAVILION
Québec City Architecture Awards Winner - Jury's Special Award
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2013
COMPLAN BUILDING - 5TH FLOOR
CECOBOIS Award of Excellence Winner - Interior Design
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2013
COMPLAN BUILDING - 5TH FLOOR
Québec City Architecture Awards Nominee - Commercial Building Category
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2013
COMPLAN BUILDING - 5TH FLOOR
CECOBOIS Technical Publication
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2010
SARAH’S HOUSE
Québec City Architecture Awards Winner - New House, Low Densit