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Habitat 67

Habitat 67 is a housing complex in Montreal, Quebec, designed by architect Moshe Safdie for Expo 67.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Habitat 67 is a housing complex in Montreal, Quebec, designed by architect Moshe Safdie for Expo 67. It is known for its stacked prefabricated concrete modules and for experimenting with high-density urban housing that includes private outdoor space. The complex remains a recognized architectural landmark and continues to function as a residential building.

Design and concept

Habitat 67 was conceived by Moshe Safdie as a response to the problems of dense urban housing. The design aimed to combine the advantages of suburban homes, such as private outdoor space and light, with the efficiency of apartment living.

Construction and layout

The complex uses prefabricated concrete modules arranged in stepped clusters. According to Safdie Architects, the building has 365 modules, 158 residences, three elevator cores, and pedestrian streets that connect the units.

Expo 67 legacy

Habitat 67 was built as the Canadian Pavilion for Expo 67 and survived after the exposition ended. It is widely described as one of the best-known remaining architectural works from Expo 67.

Later status

The building continues to serve as private housing and is recognized as a landmark in Montreal. Sources describe it as a historically significant example of experimental modular architecture.

Key facts

  • Designed by Moshe Safdie as part of Expo 67 in Montreal.
  • Built from 365 prefabricated modules forming 158 residences.
  • Each residence designed with its own roof garden or private outdoor space.
  • Located on Cité du Havre on the Saint Lawrence River in Montreal.
  • Remains in residential use and is regarded as an important Montreal landmark.
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Canadian context

Habitat 67 is a major Canadian architectural landmark in Montreal and one of the most famous surviving legacies of Expo 67, an event closely associated with Canada’s centennial-era national identity and urban design history.

Frequently asked questions

What is Habitat 67?
Habitat 67 is a residential complex in Montreal designed by Moshe Safdie for Expo 67.
Where is Habitat 67 located?
It is located at Cité du Havre in Montreal, Quebec, on the Saint Lawrence River.
How many units does Habitat 67 have?
The complex contains 158 residences formed from 365 construction modules.
Why was Habitat 67 built?
It was designed as an experimental solution for high-quality housing in dense urban settings.
Is Habitat 67 still used as housing?
Yes. It remains in use as a private residential complex.

References

  1. ArchDaily — https://www.archdaily.com/404803/ad-classics-habitat-67-moshe-safdie
    Supports: Designed by Moshe Safdie for the Canadian Pavilion at Expo 67; intended as an experimental housing solution.
  2. Safdie Architects — https://www.safdiearchitects.com/projects/habitat-67
    Supports: Module count, number of residences, roof gardens, pedestrian streets, elevator cores, and construction details.
  3. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Habitat_67
    Supports: Location in Montreal, Cité du Havre, Expo 67 origin, and status as a landmark.
  4. Tourisme Montréal — https://www.mtl.org/en/experience/revolutionary-montreal-icon-habitat-67
    Supports: Location, Expo 67 origin, and continued prominence as a Montreal icon.
  5. MasterClass — https://www.masterclass.com/articles/habitat-67-history
    Supports: Historical overview, current residential use, and historical monument designation.
  6. Habitat 67 — https://www.habitat67.com/en/
    Supports: Official legacy claims, location, and present-day residential role.