Haut Outremont is a project designed by Desjardins Bherer. The purchasers of this apartment, located on the top floor of a religious heritage building between Mount Royal and Montreal’s urban landscape, wanted a place where, alongside a unifying living space, they could indulge their passions in corners of their own.
As globetrotters, they have accumulated many travel souvenirs and objects with Middle Eastern accents: carpets, works of art and decorative accessories. They were also keen to showcase the beautiful antique furniture they had inherited. They wanted to unify the whole in a warm, functional and resolutely contemporary interior. Photography by André Doyon.

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The transition between the entrance hallway and the living areas provided a magnificent pretext for displaying a work of art, framed by two cabinet modules. This is where a link is made to the kitchen, which, placed at the core of the expansive living space, is spectacular.

The two imposing islands, made of Fior di Pesco marble, run parallel to each other and make the space as functional as possible, whether for cooking, eating or gathering on a special day.

Contrasts and textures have been used to their full effect to highlight the nobility and assertive character of the materials. The matt, veined finish of stone is set against smooth, delicate glass and lacquer. Strength versus lightness; strong colours against a range of luminous whites and greys.

The bathroom is an invitation to relaxation and calm. The bathtub, placed at its heart, becomes the focal point. Behind it and framed by the two windows is a huge expanse of Grey Lac marble, a white stone with dark purple veins, creating a spectacular effect.

The shower and toilet are discreetly placed behind grey glass partitions, as is the linen closet. A double vanity unit and abundant storage have been provided to keep the room free from clutter.

The polished porcelain tiles on both the floor and the walls, a full-width mirror and the use of white throughout ensure that the room will always make the most of the daylight and give the room its fresh, chic character.
With remnants of the building’s architecture dating from the beginning of the last century, the ceiling featured several different heights. They have been unified with a few grand gestures and for continuity between the kitchen, living room and dining room. The mouldings are very contemporary, and they align handily with the linear character of the lighting fixtures over the worktops.

While the challenge of bringing harmony to the whole was very real, it also provided an opportunity to neatly conceal the air vents and other elements that might distract from the refined finishes.

While white is omnipresent throughout the large family room, which has windows on three sides, the effect is set off by a wall clad in anthracite-coloured natural fibre wallpaper. The atmosphere is more subdued. The impressive Facet glass pendant lamp by Lasvit, like a piece of jewellery, adds a touch of drama to this space.

Set back from the main room, behind sliding doors, is a simple drawing room furnished with a single armchair. This is a retreat for the gentleman of the house. It is a place to relax in front of the TV or with a good book. One wall features a play of textures and vertical and horizontal lines that combine elegance and restraint. To one side, the television sits on a surface of fluted slats, while on the other, an open bookcase displays books and souvenirs. With its Asian accents, the ribbon ceiling fixture echoes the treasures brought back from afar and adds a touch of modernity and freshness to the room.

The owners wanted their own quarters where they could indulge their passions and organize personal belongings. Bridging the gap between the master bedroom and the bathroom, a walk-in wardrobe is divided into two sections – one for her and another for him.

On either side, generous storage units finished in dark-tinted wood create a cozy, intimate atmosphere. Here too, care has been taken to create niches and openings to display souvenirs from the couple’s travels. The whole is illuminated by discreet but highly effective recessed ceiling lights.