Penthouse with stunning views
Upper Outremont
Completion date
2022
Project manager
Anne-Joëlle Chamberland, Alix Delorme
Photos
André Doyon
Clients: A well-travelled epicurean couple
The buyers of this apartment, located on the top floor of a heritage religious building between Mount Royal and the urban landscape of Montreal, wanted a home that could combine a shared living space with areas where they could indulge their passions in more private quarters.
As world travellers, they had accumulated a number of souvenirs and objects that recall the Middle East: carpets, works of art and decorative accessories. They were also keen to showcase the beautiful antique furniture they had inherited.
The clients wanted to bring it all together in a warm, functional interior that would be resolutely contemporary.
To enter this apartment is to find yourself transported: sometimes the feeling is reminiscent of the Asian continent, sometimes it brings to mind a warm Montreal refuge.
As you step through the door, the staircase, an architectural gem designed with skill and ingenuity, stands out for the robustness of its wood, without blocking the daylight streaming through an opening in the ceiling.
The eyes are then drawn to the bookcase, the connecting thread between the travel stories told by the precious objects it displays. Here white is everywhere, providing unity among the varied shapes and colours.
Spectacular kitchen
The transition between the entrance hallway and the living areas provided a magnificent pretext for displaying a work of art, framed by two cabinet modules. This is where a link is made to the kitchen, which, placed at the core of the expansive living space, is spectacular.
The two imposing islands, made of Fior di Pesco marble, run parallel to each other and make the space as functional as possible, whether for cooking, eating or gathering on a special day.
Contrasts and textures have been used to their full effect to highlight the nobility and assertive character of the materials. The matt, veined finish of stone is set against smooth, delicate glass and lacquer. Strength versus lightness; strong colours against a range of luminous whites and greys.
Bathroom with a view
The bathroom is an invitation to relaxation and calm. The bathtub, placed at its heart, becomes the focal point. Behind it and framed by the two windows is a huge expanse of Grey Lac marble, a white stone with dark purple veins, creating a spectacular effect.
The shower and toilet are discreetly placed behind grey glass partitions, as is the linen closet. A double vanity unit and abundant storage have been provided to keep the room free from clutter.
The polished porcelain tiles on both the floor and the walls, a full-width mirror and the use of white throughout ensure that the room will always make the most of the daylight and give the room its fresh, chic character.
Set in relief
With remnants of the building’s architecture dating from the beginning of the last century, the ceiling featured several different heights. They have been unified with a few grand gestures and for continuity between the kitchen, living room and dining room. The mouldings are very contemporary, and they align handily with the linear character of the lighting fixtures over the worktops.
While the challenge of bringing harmony to the whole was very real, it also provided an opportunity to neatly conceal the air vents and other elements that might distract from the refined finishes.
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11Dramatically chic dining room
While white is omnipresent throughout the large family room, which has windows on three sides, the effect is set off by a wall clad in anthracite-coloured natural fibre wallpaper. The atmosphere is more subdued. The impressive Facet glass pendant lamp by Lasvit, like a piece of jewellery, adds a touch of drama to this space.
Monsieur's drawing room
Set back from the main room, behind sliding doors, is a simple drawing room furnished with a single armchair. This is a retreat for the gentleman of the house. It is a place to relax in front of the TV or with a good book. One wall features a play of textures and vertical and horizontal lines that combine elegance and restraint. To one side, the television sits on a surface of fluted slats, while on the other, an open bookcase displays books and souvenirs. With its Asian accents, the ribbon ceiling fixture echoes the treasures brought back from afar and adds a touch of modernity and freshness to the room.
Far from the madding crowd
The owners wanted their own quarters where they could indulge their passions and organize personal belongings. Bridging the gap between the master bedroom and the bathroom, a walk-in wardrobe is divided into two sections – one for her and another for him.
On either side, generous storage units finished in dark-tinted wood create a cozy, intimate atmosphere. Here too, care has been taken to create niches and openings to display souvenirs from the couple’s travels. The whole is illuminated by discreet but highly effective recessed ceiling lights.
Collaborators : Pure Cuisine