A Mid-century Modern Urban Chalet in Dialogue with the Panorama of Downtown Montreal

MXMA Architecture & Design and Patrick St-Onge Habitat unveiled their latest project, Party of two, a residence distinguished by a design that marries the warm intimacy of traditional wooden chalets with the elegance of modernist lines.

DINING ROOM
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DAN'S SUITE
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DAN'S SUITE
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Tour d’horizon

Already owners of a corner apartment in the former factory, the couple seized the opportunity to acquire the adjoining unit to create a vast living space for a unique, immersive visual experience. This fusion created a light-filled apartment, open on three facades, offering a spectacular 180-degree panorama of the city.

DAN'S SUITE
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JAY'S SUITE
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VESTIBULE
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Photographie Intérieure CO

The heart of the residence consists of a central volume designed to group all service spaces. Living and reception areas are arranged around this functional core, preserving the fluidity of the space while maximizing the enjoyment of the panorama. By concentrating technical and service elements in this central volume, the architects have freed up the living areas in front of the large bay windows, allowing each room to take full advantage of natural light and the horizon.

TV ROOM
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DINING ROOM
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KITCHEN
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The functional core, a dark wooden box, generates a vibrant play of chiaroscuro. The contrast between natural light and shadows creates a dynamic atmosphere in every space. This volume, integrated into the interior architecture, becomes a design object in its own right. Cleverly placed openings reveal perspectives that highlight striking views of skyscraper silhouettes, with Mount Royal in the background.

KITCHEN
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KITCHEN
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KITCHEN
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The art of living

From the entrance, the contrast is striking between the subdued atmosphere of the vestibule, a veritable wooden cocoon, and the bath of light that floods the living spaces. Leaving the vestibule, you're immediately directed to a first living room with a minimalist design that invites you to relax. At the center of the room sits the Mjolk Arm sofa, combining clean lines and comfort, flanked by two OMA speakers, veritable objets d'art. Sound-absorbing wood-textured walls and ceilings create a soothing atmosphere.

KITCHEN
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KITCHEN
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KITCHEN & BAR
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This is followed by a vast dining room that links naturally to the kitchen. The centerpiece of the residence, the kitchen allows the couple to prepare meals while exchanging ideas with their guests. It unfolds along two large islands, which delimit clearly defined work areas. The kitchen's sleek modules cleverly conceal a multitude of practical details, clever storage and functional spaces, including the plumbing columns for the apartments above, which represented a challenge in the project's realization. This design contributes to optimal ergonomics, allowing the couple to cook with ease, enjoying a fluid and functional space. To the east, the music room and bar form welcoming, multi-purpose reception areas, creating the ideal setting for lively conversation or moments of peaceful contemplation. The music lounge is a sanctuary where every element, from furniture to acoustics, has been carefully considered to offer a unique acoustic and visual experience.

LOUNGE & BAR
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LOUNGE & BAR
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OFFICE / GUEST ROOM
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The owners have each chosen to have their own suite. True havens of peace, the bedrooms blend harmoniously into the apartment's design. Located on the east and west sides respectively, these sanctuaries offer a soothing refuge, bathed in natural light and perfectly adapted to each individual's lifestyle and tastes.

OFFICE / GUEST ROOM
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WATER CLOSET
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WATER CLOSET
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Sensory experience

The harmony of materials plays a central role in the creation of this residence, a true reflection of the owners' art of living. Each material has been meticulously selected for its beauty, functionality and ability to enhance the sensory experience of the apartment spaces. While exploring various wood species, the owners were seduced by smoked eucalyptus. This wood, distinguished by its warm nuances and distinctive grain, became the common thread running through the visual narrative of the project's materiality. Fascinated by the mid-century modern style, the owners naturally opted for terrazzo flooring, with its delicate patterns and sophisticated nuances. Terrazzo enhances the refinement of the materials in the apartment, while the wooden ceilings add an enveloping warmth, reinforcing the comfort and intimacy of the space. Green marble followed, bringing a touch of sophistication to the kitchen, bar, powder room and Dan's suite, while recalling the post-war modernist aesthetic. These materials, reflecting the owners' tastes, fit perfectly with the creation of a space that is both contemporary and timeless.

MXMA Architecture & Design

At MXMA believe that architecture has the power to transform lives. In designing residential and commercial buildings and spaces, the firm's aim is to create places that promote well-being, strengthen our connection to the environment and to ourselves, while being innovative for a sustainable future. Based in Montreal, the firm of architects and designers places at the heart of every project an active listening ear, a keen understanding of their clients' unique needs, and a sensitivity, creativity and collaborative spirit that enable us to push the boundaries.

Patrick St-Onge Habitat

Patrick St-Onge and his team have been in the construction business for over thirty-five years. Since then, the company has developed an expertise in the realization of contemporary residential projects where innovation and fine finishing details are our signature. Their philosophy is to innovate, perfect and create a pleasant, respectful working environment. Our service is focused on superior quality and meticulous workmanship.