Nestled in the heart of Montreal’s Little Burgundy borough, the Quesnel Apartment project by _naturehumaine transforms a ground-floor unit in a 1920s five-unit plex into a bright, inviting family home. The renovation breathes new life into the dark, closed-off spaces while preserving the apartment’s historic character. With a focus on maximizing natural light and creating a seamless connection to the backyard, this project strikes a perfect balance between old-world charm and contemporary design.
A Thoughtful Layout for Better Flow
The redesign centers on opening up the apartment from front to back, creating a more spacious and fluid layout. Closed rooms remain on one side, while a series of open living spaces line the other, connected by a central corridor. This thoughtful arrangement maintains much of the original wall pattern, allowing the apartment’s historic essence to shine through.
Key decorative elements, such as curved arches, fluted columns, cast-iron radiators, and stained-glass doors, have been preserved and reimagined to inspire the overall design. These details serve as a foundation for a harmonious blend of old and new throughout the home.
A Modern Take on Timeless Elements
The transformation begins in the hallway, where a new closet is introduced. Painted in a green water shade inspired by the stained-glass doors and original ceramics, this feature sets the tone for the apartment’s cohesive design.
In the dining room, a semi-opaque wooden screen—reminiscent of the apartment’s original arched details—adds both privacy and elegance. Made of vertical, white-painted wood slats, the screen filters natural light while creating a playful, undulating texture on the walls and ceiling. This architectural element defines the dining area while maintaining visual connection with the adjacent kitchen.
A Kitchen Designed for Family Living
The kitchen is a standout feature of the renovation, designed with functionality and fluidity in mind. Curved cabinetry and a versatile island-peninsula encourage easy movement—an ideal setup for a busy family with two young children. The playful, rounded forms of the cabinetry echo the apartment’s historic details while adding a fresh, contemporary touch.
A Bright and Inviting Bathroom
The bathroom renovation compensates for the lack of natural light by combining various shades and textures of white ceramic tiles. Rounded geometric elements pay homage to the apartment’s historic character, while restored features like the clawfoot bathtub and new brass light fixtures create a timeless atmosphere. The result is a bright, serene space that feels both modern and connected to the past.
Harmony Between Old and New
The Quesnel Apartment renovation masterfully blends historic charm with modern functionality. By preserving original architectural details and incorporating inventive, contemporary design elements, the project achieves a playful yet harmonious balance.
This reimagined family home not only honors the rich history of its 1920s roots but also embraces the needs of modern living—making it a true gem in Montreal’s Little Burgundy neighborhood.
Photo Credit: Ronan Mézière
Discover more from Home Design Folio
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
