The Mandate
Undertaking a transformative project in the heart of Montreal’s Hampstead neighborhood, we had the pleasure of working with a vibrant family of five, including three energetic young boys. From the outset, it was evident that creating a functional living space was our primary objective.
The Focus
During the initial consultations, we delved into the family’s dynamics, exploring how they utilized their home. We inquired about their morning routines, after-school activities, and entertaining habits. It became clear that connecting the playroom to the main living areas was crucial for this family. We recognized the need for a highly functional mudroom, a well-placed laundry room, and a kitchen that combined ample storage with entertainment-friendly features.
The Kitchen
Knowing that the mother of the family had a passion for cooking and baking, we dedicated substantial attention to the kitchen. Opting for an expansive, unobstructed island, we ensured ample preparation space. Without a cooktop or sink encroaching on the island, it became an ideal workstation for intensive food preparation while also serving as a hub for hosting or attending to the children. Moreover, we incorporated a spacious 48″ sink, an impressive addition optimized for the family’s culinary activities.
To optimize the main prep space, we cleverly allocated functional storage on the opposite wall, offering easy access to the laundry room and a generously sized walk-in pantry. We regarded the pantry as an extension of the kitchen, paying attention to its aesthetics and functionality.
A closed pantry does not mean it shouldn’t be just as pretty as the rest! We see them as an extension of the kitchen and put just as much thought into them.
The location of the laundry room took precedence over its size. The toss up was a larger laundry room located on another floor or the convenience of having it right off the kitchen. We opted for the latter and given the tight space we had to work with, we used ever square inch by incorporating vertical drying racks.
The Flow
With the objective of transforming the once traditionally segmented home, we pursued an open layout. The clients were accustomed to a dark, “Italian Modern” style in their previous residence, so we aimed to create an organic and light-filled ambiance. Custom steel glass partitions and doors were designed to divide the spaces while maintaining a sense of unity, allowing natural light to permeate throughout. Furthermore, these partitions provided the convenience of keeping an eye on the children from a distance.
The Vibe
The design direction for this project was contemporary clean lines, paired with warm finishes and a dose of high contrast. We had to find a balance between the one homeowner’s more modern aesthetic and the other one’s more organic style. We used natural elements like travertine on the media unit, venetian plaster in the powder room and then incorporated black accents that really pop against the white oak features and clean white walls.
We incorporated an Eastern inspired entrance with a Morrocan pendant light and unique console and bench to bring in some of the client’s roots into the home.
The Bedrooms
The principal bedroom feels like a hotel escape. The way the en-suite uniquely connects to the bedroom with double doors and a bespoke white oak vanity makes it feel like an extension of the room.
The vanity is flanked by a water closet that allows for an added layer of privacy and a walk-in shower with lots of light.
Each of the boys’ rooms was meticulously designed to reflect their individual interests, combining sophistication with adaptability as they grow.
Finally, the boy’s bathroom had to be functional and bright. We designed a walk-in Italian shower that encompasses the shower fixtures and a bath that makes bath-time fun and mess-free!
View this complete project on our Portfolio. Contact us today to learn how we can transform your home and help you realize your vision.
