Montreal's Architectural Icon Reflects on Centennial with Yearlong Program

As Montreal prepares to celebrate Phyllis Lambert's 100th birthday, the city's beloved architect and activist is looking back on a life dedicated to urban planning and preservation. At 99, Lambert has seen Montreal transform and evolve, but her reflections on the city's future are as critical as ever. On Tuesday, September 29, 2026, she unveiled a yearlong program at the Canadian Centre for Architecture to mark her centennial, focusing on key urban issues she has championed over the decades.

Speaking at the press conference, Lambert highlighted the importance of citizen involvement in urban planning. She emphasized that the city's future should be shaped by the people who live and breathe it daily. Lambert, who founded the Montreal-based research institution and museum, pointed to the Milton-Parc neighborhood as a turning point in her approach to architecture. Here, she learned the value of listening to the community and working alongside residents.

Looking ahead, Lambert is concerned about the lack of vision in urban planning and the potential loss of green spaces. One such concern is the historic Villa Maria estate, which has been up for sale and is owned by the Congrégation de Notre-Dame since 1854. Lambert advocates for preserving the property's open space rather than allowing high-rise development that would encroach on the greenery.

The Canadian Centre for Architecture is launching a yearlong program to celebrate Lambert's centennial. This will include exhibitions, films, publications, and public discussions on various urban issues, such as housing, development, heritage, and environmental challenges. Among the highlights is a series of conversations called 'Speaking of Tomorrow,' which will bring together experts and community voices to discuss these critical topics.

As Montrealers and expats prepare to mark Lambert's milestone, it's clear that her legacy extends beyond her architectural achievements. Her ongoing reflections and initiatives continue to shape the city's future, encouraging a more inclusive and sustainable approach to urban planning.