O-Asis: A First in North America

A one-of-a-kind pilot project was launched this morning in Montréal’s Rivière-des-Prairies–Pointe-aux-Trembles borough. In the presence of borough mayor Caroline Bourgeois, the city officially inaugurated the installation of urban furniture designed for and with teenage girls.

The Starting Point: Listening to the Voices of Teenage Girls

Recent scientific research conducted by R.Es.P.I.R.E. revealed a critical gap in urban space planning: public parks rarely offer spaces that genuinely meet the needs of teenage girls. This powerful finding, based on in-depth qualitative research, sparked a bold and meaningful initiative.

As a company committed to creating inclusive recreational spaces, partnering with R.Es.P.I.R.E. to tackle this issue was a natural fit for us at Jambette.

From Insight to Impact: The Birth of O-Asis

The O-Asis collection is the direct result of this multidisciplinary collaboration. Every single element was designed to provide comfort, safety, and privacy. Details like raised platforms, cozy "cocoon" zones for quiet conversations, and convenient hooks for backpacks were all informed by the lived experiences and expressed needs of teenage girls themselves.

Montréal a Real-World Testing Ground

This pilot project transforms Montréal into a real-world testing ground for social innovation. From now until September, R.Es.P.I.R.E. will closely observe how these new installations influence teenage girls’ engagement with public space—offering valuable data to further evolve the O-Asis collection.

We believe that when teenage girls feel seen, heard, and included in public design, entire communities benefit. This is just the beginning. We are excited to follow this journey, learn from it, and inspire broader conversations about equity and inclusion in our cities.

Explore the O-Asis collection >

Read the official press release >