This project is a renovation of a traditional house from Le Plateau in Montreal. The owners, a family with two young children, wanted a change of life and were hesitating between a trip around the world and buying a house. This project combines these two desires, which at first may seem to be opposing ideas. For these great travelers, the notion of travel is the heart of the concept; and we have also included the idea of coming to awaken the inner child that lies dormant in each of us.
This single-family house, built on two floors, was a rather dark and strongly-constrained space. We decided to break the traditional codes while keeping certain powerful elements, such as the beams and the brick walls, essentially the outer envelope. We worked a lot on the circulation of spaces, bringing more light into the house by, for example, creating skylights in the ceiling. One of the main challenges was to be able to take advantage of the morning to evening light. For the circulation in the spaces, we were inspired by Moroccan riads, having the living room in the center serving the surrounding rooms with games of transparency.
The travel metaphor is a common thread throughout the house. The catamaran net evokes a boat that sails, suspended about the living room, from which one can settle down and contemplate the starry sky, creating a feeling of weightlessness and escape. The stairs and the landing are made of perforated steel, letting in light in a navy blue hue evocative of distant seas and adventures.
Playful and unexpected elements have been placed at different points, appealing to adults and children. A climbing wall adorns the children’s room, and a slide connects the catamaran net and the kitchen. Why use the stairs when you can slide? We have selected local noble materials, for example, maple wood. The curtains bring a theatrical touch while emphasizing the playful spirit of the space.
Photo Credit: Caroline Thibault
