Montpellier House
At the foot of Mount Saint-Bruno on the South Shore of Montreal, the residence sits quietly, surrounded by a lush forest canopy. Reclining on a soft sofa, one watches as natural light filters through sheer curtains and pours down from a double-height atrium, gently breathing life into an all-white interior. Time appears to slow in this serene, translucent atmosphere. Worries seem to dissolve, leaving only a sense of calm—an invitation to simply relax and enjoy the stillness of the moment. Realized through the collaboration of Vives St-Laurent studio and ATA Architecture, the house follows the contours of the mountain landscape. Built amidst dense treetops, it embraces the surrounding greenery. From the windows, a verdant forest unfolds—bringing with it a quiet and peaceful energy that naturally invites stillness and reflection.
Unlike the traditional suburban homes that define the neighborhood, many of which were built in the 1960s, this three-storey residence breaks from convention. One level is partially embedded into the sloped terrain, allowing the architecture to integrate seamlessly with the uneven topography—like a sculptural form that appears to grow organically from the land. Stepping inside, a linear vestibule leads naturally to a slightly sunken living room. Looking upward, the dramatic ceiling height is softened by a light vertical curtain and a Tekio pendant lamp made of washi paper. To the right, a sculptural kitchen, a calm, minimalist dining area, and a simple two-flight staircase unfold. To the left, more private areas—such as the bedroom, office, and gym—extend toward the basement. The spatial arrangement wraps around an interior courtyard, and generous glass curtain walls draw in natural light while blurring the line between interior and forest. Circulation is fluid and considered, with everyday functions embedded subtly into the architecture.
While the dominant palette is pure white, the interior avoids austerity. The geometric language is gently balanced by rounded edges on the fireplace mantel and curvilinear furnishings that bring a sense of visual flow. Distinct yet harmonious material pairings—such as natural white oak and dark-stained oak, or plush white carpet set against a fireplace clad in matte dark ceramic—introduce rich layers and tactile contrast, enhancing the interplay between spaces. Through its refined materials and careful detailing, the residence reflects a way of living that is both elegant and warm. Every element expresses an atmosphere that is poetic and contemplative—where aesthetics and comfort are quietly intertwined in the details of daily life.
Character of Space | Residence
Area | 3,000 ㎡
Contractor | Ouellette Habitations
Location | Saint-Bruno, Quebec, Canada
