L’apéritif

An old NDG house regains its Victorian charm

In the heart of Notre-Dame-de-Grâce, this magnificent century-old house with its sumptuous interiors was disfigured in the 1960s by an unfortunate courtyard extension. How could the kitchen be redesigned and an inviting access to the courtyard be provided without disfiguring this ancestral home?

In addition to repairing the structure and brick cladding, the extension walls were pierced with large openings to take better advantage of the beautiful southeastern light. The kitchen now opens onto the annex, connected by the extension of its counter which becomes a bar, then a cushioned bench perfect for enjoying an aperitif! The whole leads to a large sliding wooden door which offers a striking view of the courtyard.

The aesthetic blends contemporary minimalism with ornamental details typical of days past. Stained red oak floors, natural white oak cabinetry, textured glass and powder-coated steel, white marble and solid wood millwork blend naturally with the Victorian interiors of this Montreal heritage building. Improved insulation and the use of natural materials help curb the carbon impact of this beautiful transformation in Notre-Dame-de-Grâce.