Name of project : Draper
Type de projet: Renovation
Place: Montreal
End of renovations: Juillet 2024
Photography: Studio CRBN
Contractor: Construction James Vernon
Renovating the ground floor of a 1920s duplex first meant immersing ourselves in its history in order to extend its narrative. In this project, the goal was clear: to breathe new life into a fragmented, dimly lit space while honoring the soul of the original home. Lived in by a dynamic family of five, the dwelling needed a complete reimagining to reflect their warm, sociable lifestyle.
The transformation began with a full reconfiguration of the living areas. The rear portion of the home, once closed off, was opened up to merge the kitchen and dining room into a fluid, light-filled volume. A generous new opening in the rear façade, punctuated by two large sliding doors, invites abundant natural light into the space and leads to an elongated balcony that extends the living area outdoors.
The kitchen, the true heart of the home, was designed to combine functionality and hospitality. Equipped with two distinct islands, it preserves an efficient workspace while promoting easy interaction with guests. Its aesthetic remains minimal and refined, yet every detail was carefully considered to maximize storage and functionality without compromising on design.
The previously underused basement was completely renovated to include a versatile lounge/playroom that converts into a guest bedroom, complete with a full bathroom. On the main floor, storage was thoughtfully optimized in the bedrooms, entrance, and hallway to declutter circulation paths and clarify spatial organization.
Finally, the existing family bathroom—once too small for the needs of five—was replaced with a serene, spacious new layout. Featuring both a bath and a separate shower, the new space offers a calm, enveloping atmosphere, tailored for relaxation while still meeting the everyday demands of a busy household.