The Unique Garnier Residence by the Dupont Blouin Architects

Inspired by the “mid-century modern” style, the Garnier residence, located in the trendy Plateau Mont-Royal neighbourhood in Montreal, Quebec, is an exceptional renovation project where the beauty of materials serves the creation of unique spaces that redefine the boundaries between public and private areas.

Designed for a couple and their young children, the former triplex emphasizes the reception areas. The spacious living room on the top floor maximizes natural light, while the bedrooms, nestled on the first floor, are situated in the shadow of the double garage in the backyard. The renovation also includes the basement, which houses a partially occupied independent studio intended for visiting family or rental purposes.

The clients desired an inspiring and welcoming atmosphere upon returning home in the evenings. To create a sanctuary from the daily stresses of life, the communal living spaces were designed with a restaurant-bar-lounge ambience. The architects incorporated wooden architectural modules, including a stairwell, powder room, and integrated kitchen furniture, which not only define the spaces but also contribute to the house’s serene and somewhat secretive atmosphere.

The kitchen features an elegantly curved countertop, topped by a suspended structure that follows a U-shape. All domestic elements are concealed within the built-in furniture. At night, with the curtains drawn, the space transforms into a speakeasy-like environment. During the day, the festive area is bathed in natural light thanks to a skylight above the kitchen and large bay windows overlooking the alley.

Within the central walnut module, one can find the staircase and a discreet powder room concealed behind a carved wooden door. This area exudes discreet elegance with smoked glass, copper faucets, an Italian pedestal washbasin, and terracotta ceramics reminiscent of upholstered leather. A second skylight above the stairwell creates a vertical light axis within the residence. On one side, a textured glass opening allows light to pass through while obscuring the view, contributing to the intriguing nature of the space. When sunlight pierces through the material, rays of light project onto the floor.

The Garnier residence boasts six entrances, including three vestibules. The owners wanted to maintain multiple access points on different levels, offering official entrances for guests and more private ones for their children. Additionally, the parents’ bedroom opens onto an interior courtyard. This maze-like layout adds complexity to the program and contributes to the unique treatment of the project.

A vibrant and playful character is introduced by the colourful terrazzo slab adorning all the floors. The various shades of stone within the terrazzo influenced the colour palette and the arrangement of different materials to enhance each element, from the copper baseboards to the walnut walls. In the master bedroom bathroom, Verde Saint-Denis marble countertops, emerald green sinks, and warm natural felt walls harmonize with the terrazzo.

Throughout the creation, materiality serves as inspiration. Both the colour and format of the materials play significant roles. Wall panels create a grid that complements the wall bookcase and brings rhythm to the integrated modules within the space. As with all of the firm’s creations, meticulous attention has been paid to alignments.

With the Garnier residence, Dupont and Blouin have crafted a sophisticated and masterful interior that invites both celebration and comfort within a serene and luxurious universe.

Source: V2com newswire