Project description

The renovation project for the Wood residence focuses primarily on restoring and highlighting the home’s existing features. With a layout typical of the Westmount area, several key elements have been preserved, such as the location of the staircase and the arrangement of the main rooms: the living room, the dining room, and the kitchen at the back of the house.

Upon entering, a checkerboard pattern of Alpi Verde and Bianco Carrara marble sets the tone for the project’s style, which is both classic and contemporary. The bull’s-eye window, an iconic feature of the façade, inspired the design of the entryway furniture, which consists of a seat and a vertical storage unit that highlights the small oval window.

In the living room, bookshelves flanking the fireplace frame the natural stone mantel, creating a focal point in the room. The large picture window—a common feature in homes in this neighborhood—is highlighted by simple, understated furniture, allowing abundant natural light to flood in while offering a view of the large tree in the front yard. 

Designed as a renovation with resale in mind, the project features materials that are both neutral and distinctive. With this in mind, the original flooring was replaced with pale white oak, adding a touch of modernity to the space.

This commitment to balance is reflected in the design of the staircase leading to the upper floor, which perfectly illustrates this approach by blending classic and contemporary styles. The existing banister, which was not in good condition, was therefore redesigned. A series of moldings was added to ensure it blends harmoniously with the rest of the room. The painted steel handrail, recessed into the stringer, is a subtle detail that reflects the care taken in every aspect of the project and the result of close collaboration among the various teams involved.

The kitchen, located at the back of the house, remains in its original spot. The addition of an anthracite French door creates a subtle contrast with the rest of the space and establishes a direct connection to the outdoor terrace. The marble countertop lends timeless elegance to the room, while the addition of an island makes it more functional than before, perfectly suited to contemporary living.

Under the stairs, a powder room has been discreetly incorporated behind a hidden door, custom-designed to align with the existing moldings and blend seamlessly into the walls. The sink, crafted from a single block of marble, blends harmoniously into the room while serving as a focal point and a visual echo of the entryway.

Upstairs, the space features three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The master bedroom is the highlight of this area. The addition of a spacious adjacent bathroom enhances the user experience, while two French doors with textured glass provide both privacy and natural light. The large wall-to-wall vanity, featuring a thicker countertop, exudes an elegant and refined style distinct from the other areas. The walk-in shower draws inspiration from certain hotel designs, which guided the initial concept for the suite’s layout.

All in all, the project respects the existing structure while combining preservation with enhancement. Several moldings were redesigned and added to preserve the unique character of this house, which is typical of the neighborhood. By ensuring continuity between the design concepts and their implementation, the Wood residence strikes a balance between respecting the site and adapting to contemporary needs. The various modifications thus blend seamlessly with the existing structure.