On June 13, 2026, artists in Montreal's Mile-Ex neighbourhood expressed concern that the iconic studio building at 435 Beaubien Avenue West may be lost to a redevelopment project. The red‑brick industrial structure at the corner of Beaubien Avenue West and Durocher Street has long provided workspace for a community of creators.
The artists' worries stem from a plan that would replace the existing building, which has housed studios for years, with new development. They fear displacement and the loss of a cultural hub that has contributed to the neighbourhood's artistic identity.
Mile‑Ex artists have historically relied on the affordable, flexible spaces within the red‑brick building to produce, exhibit, and collaborate. The building's location and layout have made it a focal point for artistic activity in the area.
While details of the redevelopment proposal have not been disclosed, the prospect of demolition has prompted the artist community to voice apprehension. The potential change raises questions about the future of creative spaces in a district known for its vibrant cultural scene.
The situation reflects broader tensions in Montreal as development pressures intersect with the need to preserve spaces that support the arts. Artists hope that any plans will consider the importance of the Mile‑Ex studios and seek solutions that maintain the building's role in the neighbourhood.