Local architecture studio Naturehumaine recently completed the renovation and expansion of a duplex in Montreal with a deep red palette that defines both the interior and exterior of the property. Called Le Petit Merlot, the project is located in the Plateau Mont-Royal district in the heart of Montreal where Naturehumaine transformed a 1920s building containing two apartments into a single, contemporary home. The project honors the building’s heritage while giving it a new representation through a seamless extension that coexists with its surroundings.

The design of the project uses red tones, combined with a rich color reminiscent of the Merlot wine. Naturehumaine preserved the original redbrick street-facing facade, reinstating its historical character, while introducing a modern glazed facade at the rear of the building. This new rear facade is framed by red steelwork, providing a transparent and open view of the rear garden across four levels. The studio explained that the design sought to balance the heritage of the area with modern architectural elements, creating a harmonious relationship between the building and its neighborhood.

The renovation’s commitment to visual consistency is evident in the use of red throughout the project. This color theme is carried across the brick, window mullions, parapet flashings, painted steelwork, and even the hemlock lintels. The studio’s attention to detail ensures that the property retains a sense of unity and visual cohesion.

The duplex itself is designed to maximize its connection to the garden. The lower unit, occupying the basement and ground floor, includes a main bedroom and office that overlook a sunken gravel patio, with a weathered steel planter adding an industrial touch. The ground floor above features an additional bedroom and a spacious living, dining, and kitchen area with access to a wooden deck at the end of the garden. To enhance the spatial experience of the lower unit, large floor-to-ceiling windows have been incorporated, providing ample natural light and a sense of openness.

The upper unit was extended to include a mezzanine level due to height restrictions in the area. This level contains a kitchen and dining area that opens onto a rooftop terrace, offering views of the surrounding neighborhood.

The interior design complements the exterior’s red hues with the inclusion of deep red window frames and a distinctive “library” reveal with built-in shelving in the upper apartment. In contrast, pale wood floors and white walls prevail to fill the remaining spaces with a bright, airy feel.

Montreal-based architecture firm Naturehumaine was established in 2004. It is an innovative thought-provoking architectural design firm.

Previous projects include a micro chalet in Québec and a redbrick housing block in Montreal, showcasing the studio’s skill in combining contemporary design with historical influence