Kwigw8mna at Bishop’s University

This project is a renovation of an apartment comprised of three prefabricated concrete modules nestled within Habitat 67, a housing complex designed by architect Moshe Safdie for Expo 67. Perched on the edge of the Saint Lawrence River and overlooking Montreal, Quebec, the design concept for the apartment’s thorough interior renovation began with the desire to pay homage to its unique history.

To achieve seamless movement between spaces, the subtle curves of interior partitions generate privacy around their bends, without the need for closed doors; this creates a sense of motion in an otherwise structured space. Details such as the trackless pocket doors, floating stairs, and glass railings free of visible hardware contribute to the perceived lightness of the space, and parallel the cantilevered nature of the building modules themselves. The interior is unified as a smooth and eloquent volume despite its robust and guarded exterior. The meticulous attention to detail contributes to the overall harmony of the space.

Each design decision was made with consideration of how the client would inhabit the space. Curved wood panels add warmth and texture, evoking the original vision of integrating nature into urban living. Embedded into these undulating walls are interactive functional elements that respond to a daily routine.

The fluidity of the forms within the interior spaces juxtaposes against the cartesian geometry of the existing building’s exterior. This contrast celebrates the unique character of each of the elements, new and old, complementing the timeless nature of this cultural landmark.

Completion: June 2019

The preservation of the site’s 8000 square meter maple forest is pivotal to the design of this new head office and national distribution centre located in an industrial/commercial zone in the west end of Montreal. Composed of two distinct volumes servicing the different functions of the business, this LEED Silver Certified building is organized around a private courtyard that opens onto the natural forest. Woven into the building’s plan, the courtyard provides a social space shared by both the warehouse and administrative volumes. Public spaces, including reception, conference rooms, cafeteria, and café open onto the private garden, creating the desired campus-like environment for the staff and an identifiable image for a corporation committed to excellence in design.

Context:

Located in The Redpath Sugar refinery on the Lachine Canal, this distinctive industrial building was converted in 2006 for residential use. The steel structured red brick building is punctuated by regularly spaced tall narrow window openings. The existing apartment was originally designed as two apartments with separate access to the elevator. The rooms were distributed around a meandering central circulation and core.

Objectives:

To provide a living space for a couple which would include an open plan for living, dining and kitchen, two home offices, a principal bedroom ensuite, a guest room and an audio-visual / playroom.

To provide the maximum exposure possible to natural light

Response:

The industrial character of the building informed our interior design to create a cohesive expression.

We exposed the existing steel structure (columns & beams) as well as retaining and exposing some industrial plumbing risers. These elements are echoed by the introduction of new steel, hot rolled steel panels for door portals, metal shelving and door hardware. Warmth is injected with the use of wood. Wood panels form a block consolidating the main core of the apartment with oak paneling lining central circulation space. Metal detail is reinforced by wood in the library and elsewhere. To continue the industrial theme, corrugated glazing provides both privacy and allows the natural light to penetrate the adjacent spaces.

Minimalist design in an upscale shopping area developed to reflect the sophistication and design quality of the merchandise.

A collaboration ARCHITEM / Desjardins Bherer

Designed for entertaining, this 2-storey penthouse in downtown Montreal was completely replanned. A generous open space incorporating the double height volume was created to allow for easy flow within the living areas and to the terraces overlooking the city and mountain. The interior architecture maintains the integrity of the existing glass curtain wall ensuring that panoramic views remain untouched.

Upon entering the penthouse, the central element is a sculptural steel stair that is both a focal point and an organizing element, providing punctuation between the different living spaces. Crafted from painted steel, glass, and wood, the transparency of the glass guardrail exposes the wood core beyond, blending modern aesthetics with natural warmth.

The interior walls, lined with walnut panels and concealed doors anchor the open space. This choice of material not only adds a touch of luxury but also contributes to a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

The main level, with its multiple seating areas and open kitchen, is designed both for intimate family gatherings and larger events. The den, oriented towards the fireplace, features an end wall of brushed acid etched stainless steel, housing the wine cellar and bar.

The upper level has its principal suite at one end, zoned for privacy. The gym overlooks the double height living spaces below. The guest room wing is designed for flexibility. Sliding panels allow these bedrooms to be easily converted into additional private living and working spaces.

The renovation marries the elements of contemporary design, careful spatial planning that responds to the owners’ lifestyle, and a keen appreciation for the urban context, resulting in a penthouse that harmoniously blends with the vibrant pulse of downtown Montreal.