Project: Saint-André House
Architecture: Thellend Fortin Architects
Location: Québec, Canada
Year: 2022
Photo Credits: Charles Lanteigne
Situated in Montreal’s Plateau-Mont-Royal neighborhood, the Saint-André House transforms a former duplex into a refined, light-filled single-family home. The project, which includes a rear extension and a new mezzanine, balances contemporary living with spatial clarity and sensitivity to context. Through thoughtful design and careful material choices, the architects created a home that feels open, calm, and deeply connected to its surroundings.
A Dialogue Between Architecture and Light
The layout follows a clear principle: “served” spaces like bedrooms and social areas run parallel to “serving” zones such as circulation paths and storage. As a result, the flow throughout the home feels natural and intuitive. The rear extension enhances this organization and introduces a geometric design that echoes the elevation of a neighboring residence designed by the same architects for the same family more than a decade ago. This reference forms an intentional visual dialogue, uniting the two projects through rhythm and spatial correspondence.
Additionally, the interior color palette plays a key role in defining the atmosphere. Soft whites and pale white oak create a luminous, ethereal environment that expands the sense of space. Natural light animates the surfaces throughout the day, emphasizing textures and changing tones. In doing so, it turns the neutral materials into living elements that interact with the shifting daylight.
The Staircase as a Sculptural Pathway
One of the home’s most defining features is the staircase. Rather than hiding it away, the design team chose to make it a sculptural centerpiece. It folds and unfolds through the space, forming a graceful path from the basement to the mezzanine. Its raw material finish stands in contrast to the light tones around it, giving it visual weight and presence.
Moreover, the staircase creates a sense of motion and continuity. A series of skylights installed at the top level allows daylight to cascade down through each floor. This natural light not only enhances the vertical connection between spaces but also turns everyday movement into an uplifting experience. Instead of simply connecting floors, the staircase guides a journey—one shaped by form, light, and perspective.
A Harmonious Blend of Heritage and Modernity
The Saint-André House succeeds by merging architectural restraint with expressive intent. While the renovation introduces new elements and a redefined layout, it also respects the memory of the building and its context. Referencing the neighboring home wasn’t accidental—it was a meaningful decision that deepens the project’s architectural continuity.
Ultimately, this residence reflects the lifestyle and values of its owners. Its carefully curated simplicity, strong spatial logic, and respect for natural light result in a place that feels serene yet vibrant. With each decision, the architects reinforced a sense of calm and connection—qualities that elevate this home from a renovation to a living, breathing retreat.
