Dulwich Residence: Seamlessly Blending Old and New in Montreal's South Shore

The clients of a 1920's house on Montreal's south shore found themselves in need of a contemporary extension that would seamlessly blend with their existing home. Their goal was to highlight and expose the beautiful structural brick while creating a harmonious connection between the old and the new. To achieve this, the architectural studio _naturehumaine designed a stunning extension that not only met the clients' needs but also added a touch of modernity to their beloved property.

The extension cleverly separates the existing house from the new addition with a glazed volume, which serves as the vertical circulation area. This creates a clear distinction between the old and the new while allowing for a seamless flow between the two. The architects also re-organized the existing house to better suit the clients' requirements. The ground floor now features an inviting entryway and a spacious living room, while the children's quarters are located on the second floor.

One of the most striking features of the extension is the presence of three double-height spaces that link the communal areas on the ground floor with the more private spaces on the second floor. These spaces not only create a sense of openness and connection but also maintain a warm and inviting atmosphere throughout the house. The use of natural light further enhances this ambiance, making the entire residence feel bright and welcoming.

The extension itself consists of two intertwining volumes. A brick volume forms the base, acting as a support for a steel-clad volume that extends into the backyard. This unique design element creates a visually interesting contrast and adds a contemporary touch to the overall composition. At the projection of the steel-clad volume, a large window frames the surrounding foliage, creating a tranquil "sleeping basket" that offers a relaxing space to unwind and enjoy the garden views. Additionally, this area serves as a play space for the children, allowing them to stay connected with the kitchen and dining spaces below.

The Dulwich Residence project by _naturehumaine architectural studio showcases their talent for seamlessly blending old and new, while creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Through the use of thoughtful design elements such as the glazed volume, double-height spaces, and the unique brick and steel-clad volumes, the architects have successfully transformed the clients' 1920's house into a contemporary haven. This project serves as a testament to the power of architectural innovation and its ability to meet the changing needs of homeowners while preserving the charm of the past.

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