Unveiled with great fanfare in fall 2024, the new Royalmount shopping destination has attracted attention since its earliest sketches. Developed by Carbonleo, this $10-billion real estate project—considered the largest development of its kind in Quebec—is set to become a true ecosystem combining retail spaces, offices, hotels, and multi-residential units. Its first phase, valued at over $1 billion, stands out for the boldness of its retail offering. At its core: a high-end food hall, the centerpiece of this luxurious destination.

A Food Hall Designed as a Culinary Destination in Its Own Right

More than just a typical food court, the space—named Le Fou Fou—was conceived as an immersive gastronomic experience. Inspired by Montreal’s rich culinary heritage, it brings together 12 food counters, 2 restaurants, and 3 bars with terraces across more than 30,000 sq. ft., plus 6,000 sq. ft. of outdoor space, with seating for over 900 guests.

Carbonleo’s ultimate goal: to create a space that is both refined and welcoming—one that appeals to Montreal foodies, tourists, and top-tier restaurateurs alike. Designed by LemayMichaud, the space combines urban style with classic French elegance. A warm palette, raw yet noble materials, and a dual-zoned layout—one bright and family-friendly, the other dimly lit and festive—create a sophisticated and adaptable ambiance. The entire design is built on complex architectural elements that are both aesthetic and structural.

Divided into two zones, the space evolves throughout the day. The bright side, flooded with natural light, offers a welcoming, family-oriented atmosphere. In contrast, the darker side is livelier—designed for evening gatherings and social events. This duality brings flexibility while maintaining visual coherence, with every detail seamlessly integrated.

High-End Fit-Out in the Heart of a Monumental Construction Site

Thanks to its prime location, Le Fou Fou quickly became the focal point of the shopping centre. Expectations were high, with tight deadlines, a closely monitored budget, and uncompromising quality standards reflecting the developer’s vision.

But the challenge wasn’t just the design’s complexity. The food hall had to be built while Royalmount’s base infrastructure was still under construction. This meant building in parallel with an active, 824,000 sq. ft. worksite involving up to 1,800 workers.

In this highly restricted environment—defined by co-activity, tight schedules, and constantly evolving plans—coordinating the fit-out demanded surgical precision. Some installations bordered the project area, creating major logistical challenges for site access, deliveries, and site management.

An ultra-precise construction logistics strategy was essential: clearly defined work zones, tightly sequenced connection and finishing stages, and seamless coordination with the broader construction site.

Meeting Challenges with Technology

To tackle this multidimensional challenge, we relied on a Building Information Modeling (BIM) approach. Introduced early in the mandate, BIM allowed JCB to centralize project data, streamline construction sequencing, visualize space in real time, and anticipate technical clashes. Tools like Revizto, 3D visualization, augmented reality, and temporary object displacement were key in navigating a constantly evolving environment.

MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing) modeling helped redesign networks, adapt existing systems, and integrate the many components required by different food vendors—all while meeting the strict standards of the food service industry. The result: fast, seamless integration of systems and a reduction of the overall project schedule by 3 to 4 months—without compromising quality.

A Model of Exemplary Collaboration

This project is the product of close collaboration between Carbonleo, LemayMichaud, JCB, and numerous specialized partners. Its success rests entirely on rigorous execution, continuous agility, and a shared vision: to create a culinary destination that stands apart.

A Food Hall That Shines Locally and Internationally

Nearly a year after opening, the success of Le Fou Fou speaks for itself. It transcends the traditional food court model, standing as a true culinary destination. Far from being a quick stop between shopping errands, Le Fou Fou is a place people intentionally visit to enjoy a shared meal.

Offering a unique blend of self-service and table service, it lets guests create their own personalized culinary journey—with unmatched fluidity and hospitality. Today, it attracts a diverse clientele: local gourmets, curious tourists, and acclaimed restaurateurs.

Praised by critics and recently honoured at the Architizer Awards, the project represents not only a commercial success for Carbonleo, but also a showcase of Quebec expertise in design, construction, and customer experience.

Building Places That Inspire and Connect

At JCB Construction Canada, we’re proud to have contributed to one of Montreal’s most ambitious food spaces. By combining innovation, technical precision, and collaboration, we helped bring to life a space that exceeds expectations—a place where gastronomy, design, and performance come together — at the heart of the largest retail development targeting a LEED Gold certification.

Because beyond construction, we believe in building spaces that inspire, connect… and nourish.

^{Photos Credit: LemayMichaud
Video Credit: Moveo Productions}