Photos by Charles Lanteigne. Content via Bowerbird.
The Saint-André no. 3 project consists of the transformation of a duplex into a cottage with an extension to the backyard and the addition of a mezzanine. Located on Plateau-Mont-Royal in Montreal, the concept of this single-family residence was developed according to a simple spatial organization of spaces arranged in a parallel manner.
The geometric play of the rear facade of the extension is part of the virtual framework of the elevation of the neighboring building designed by the same architects and for the same family a decade earlier. This correspondence creates a dialogue, a game of sliding openings which shapes a united and coherent whole.
The colour palette of the project was developed in tones of white and white oak. The architect’s desire was to create a very bright, ethereal environment to balance the narrowness of the space. Depending on the time of day, natural light brings all the monochrome textures and natural materials to life.
The staircase was designed as a free element which folds and unfolds in the space according to a framework connecting the different landings. The raw material of the staircase, in contrast with the soft tones of its environment, highlights it as a bold statement and accentuates its presence.
