Project: Duplex Clark
Architecture: Table Architecture
Location: Montreal, Canada
Area: 255 m2
Year: 2024
Photo Credits: Félix Michaud
The Clark Duplex is designed as a living gallery that adapts to a variety of daily needs. It creates a peaceful environment where every room offers a fresh perspective on the surrounding urban context. Throughout the home, the architects carefully frame views both inward and outward, inviting residents to interact with each element in a unique and intimate way. This dynamic design turns the home into a living, breathing space that encourages exploration and discovery of its historic roots.
Reviving a Heritage Structure
Located in Montreal’s Mile-End neighborhood, the Clark Duplex is part of a group of row houses built at the beginning of the 20th century. The renovation revives the building’s original footprint by consolidating its compact, functional geometry. The new plan restores access to the upper-floor accommodations through an interior staircase, freeing up the façade. The gray rusticated stone has been cleaned to highlight the balcony, cornice, and jamb, which the architects reconstructed in keeping with the area’s heritage. In contrast, the rear section and the new floor feature standing seam zinc cladding, inspired by the sheds and outbuildings in the alley. At the rear, the design respects the original “L” shape, which, along with adjacent outdoor spaces, provides a continuous terrace and balcony that connect with the interior on all levels while preserving privacy for the two families.
Interiors that Invite Exploration
The design centers around a central volume that divides the space and highlights each area, creating a welcoming living environment. Integrated furniture connects different spaces and levels, both functionally and aesthetically. Throughout the interior, soft hues and natural materials such as stone and wood create a tactile, organic ambiance. The color palette, inspired by the natural world, forms a serene backdrop that contrasts with the busy urban context. While the master bedroom and study stand out by their location on the upper floor, a double-height space and an open staircase provide visual links between levels, ensuring a sense of openness throughout.
Innovative Technology for Modern Living
The building incorporates innovative technologies to simplify daily life. Home automation systems allow residents to control lighting, heating, air conditioning, and security remotely, ensuring responsible energy consumption. Insulated double-framed walls, triple-glazed doors and windows, and radiant floor heating work together to improve both energy efficiency and comfort.
A Sanctuary in the City
The Clark Duplex does more than just engage with its urban context—it offers a refuge where time seems to slow down. The design creates a sanctuary that allows residents to contemplate the urban landscape and enjoy moments of calm amid the hustle and bustle of city life. In short, the Clark Duplex combines a rich dialogue with its historical context and cutting-edge modern technologies to provide a home that is both inspiring and comfortable.
