Expansion in Montreal. Transformation of the housing typology known as "shoebox"

The project includes a small vernacular structure added to the rear to accommodate the growing family of clients. The old structure is the heart of the new home, and the addition is minimal, modest and memorable in its urban context

The desire to retain a single floor plan that connects with the surrounding outdoor environment was shared by the client and architect from the beginning. Options were explored for 3 long years, and in the end the front courtyard expansion was considered the best fit for the building's needs, budget and zoning

The first step was to extend the building further forward to align with the neighbouring building facades. Part of the curvilinear front façade revolves around a Siberian elm, a point where continuity is interrupted and where harmony between architecture, landscape and urban context is created

The same curvilinear wall is in the rear courtyard and defines the interior configuration of the house. The most silent spaces are in the back, while all others are located on the street side. The interior spaces are large and open, with the clean geometry of sculptural shapes, cube and cylinder, defining the large entrance hall

Large windows in the family spaces provide a visual connection to the central garden and the original facade of the house. Different approaches were used for the old and new structures and the different parts were unified through minimal details, clean lines and a palette of light maple, light concrete and white paint