Its architects, Joseph Perrault and Simon Lesage, were inspired by several architectural styles to give it a Flemish character, which was unique in Montreal at the time.

It had several components: archaeological excavations, and revitalizing the western district after the abandonment of nearby industrial areas.

[3] In order to ensure a museum function in the building, the agreement also resulted in the establishment of the Centre d'histoire de Montréal in 1983.

[4] On the ground floor, the permanent exhibition, "Montreal en cinq temps" promotes the events, places and residents that have made history.

The collection of the Centre d'histoire de Montreal is composed of more than 4,000 artifacts, dating mainly from the twentieth century.