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Wilson
By : Entre Quatre Murs
GRANDS PRIX DU DESIGN – 17th edition
Discipline : Interior Design
Categories : Residence / Kitchen : Gold Certification
Categories : Residence / Residential Space 1,600 - 5,400 sq.ft. (150 - 500 sq.m.) : Gold Certification
Categories : Residence / Bathroom : Silver Certification
Designed by Dan Hanganu in 1982 and unrenovated since, the townhouse of the Wilson project captivated its new owners with an exterior that artfully mirrored the characteristic style of both the neighborhood and the era. With its clean lines, red bricks, black-framed windows, and retro accents on the facade, the house exuded charm and nostalgia. Its sprawling backyard, adorned with mature vegetation, provided an ideal retreat within the bustling heart of the city—a sanctuary to appreciate the changing seasons.
Transitioning inward, the interior awaited a substantial overhaul, offering future residents an opportunity to infuse their own identity into the space. Guided by principles of softness, simplicity, luminosity, and uniformity, the design journey commenced. From the outset, emphasis was placed on creating an open layout for the ground floor, seamlessly integrating the courtyard with the interior. This design intent not only fostered a harmonious connection but also bathed the 665-square-foot ground floor in natural light, imparting a sense of spaciousness.
The primary challenge of this project involved addressing the limitations presented by the unconventional layout of the house. Two load-bearing axes and a central plumbing system needed to be relocated to accommodate the desired open floor plan. A meticulous approach was taken to integrate custom furniture along the adjacent walls, serving the dual purpose of meeting the expansive storage needs of the clients and establishing visual continuity between each space. The kitchen features warm-toned wood and sleek quartz surfaces, creating an inviting atmosphere that elevates the space beyond mere functionality, making it a central hub for gatherings.
The central staircase, boasting an existing skylight, underwent a comprehensive transformation at the project’s core. Every facet of its structure was reimagined, drawing inspiration from the overarching design language of the entire household—featuring curves, wooden accents, and a palette dominated by white tones. This sculptural staircase, with its fluid, simple, and delicate design, facilitated the passage of abundant natural light from the roof, illuminating every corner of the home.
Materiality played a pivotal role in defining the house’s identity, with deliberate nods to the past preserving the original dwelling’s essence. While the upper floor experienced a less radical transformation in terms of space planning, it seamlessly aligned with the ground floor’s aesthetics. Custom integrated storage solutions optimized space and enhanced the daily lives of the occupants.
The master suite was imagined as a luxury hotel experience, complete with a redesigned bathroom tailored to the current owners needs while allowing for the upcoming expansion of their family. Enlarged windows on the upper floor provided stunning views of the courtyard, showcasing the majestic old oak tree and the lush surrounding vegetation. An elongated linen sheer curtain in the master bedroom connects the sleeping area to the walk-in closet, adding a touch of softness and maintaining continuity between these essential spaces.
Even in the more confined spaces of the basement, where the garage occupies a substantial portion of the square footage, the design intent remained consistent. This versatile area transformed into a coveted space for cinematic evenings, workout sessions, or a welcoming haven for friends and family during overnight stays.
Collaboration
Interior Designer : Entre Quatre Murs
General Contractor : Downs McGovern
Manufacturer - Distributor : Création Avantage
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