Maison Carlier: Innovative Design in Montreal’s Little Italy

yh2, a renowned architectural firm, proudly presents Maison Carlier, an exceptional urban densification project located in the vibrant heart of Montreal’s Little Italy district. Designed with meticulous attention to detail, Maison Carlier showcases a unique architectural concept that seamlessly blends with its surroundings while offering a refreshing take on urban living.

Situated on a through lot accessible from two streets, Maison Carlier maximizes the potential of its exceptional location. Previously occupied by a parking lot accessible from rue Henri-Julien, the project seamlessly integrates with an existing sixplex on Drolet Street, completing its construction. The innovative design revolves around a central courtyard, creating a two-headed multiplex that introduces a new typology to this distinctive lot.

The project’s defining feature is the harmonious convergence of two distinct building bodies. A suspended brick volume intertwines with a vertical block of wood and glass, resulting in a visually stunning composition. This deliberate fragmentation allows the structure to seamlessly blend into the eclectic urban context of the neighborhood.

The main body of the building, a floating brick volume, adopts the elegant simplicity of the surrounding architecture. The ocher brick facing on the front facade creates a mesmerizing pattern, interwoven with black lines that accentuate the framework. While the street-facing facade is framed delicately, the side walls feature a vertical arrangement of black bricks. As the building transitions towards the courtyard, the brick envelope dissolves, offering a glimpse of the lush greenery within the heart of the block.

In addition to the brick volume, the base and crown of the building exhibit a captivating fusion of glass and wood. A gracefully curved volume, made of glass and wood, punctures through the mass of brick, creating a stunning vertical extrusion. This architectural element serves as a skylight, bathing the interior with natural light and expanding the space towards the heavens. Moreover, this vertical extrusion seamlessly integrates the staircase providing access to the roof terrace, revealing breathtaking panoramic views of the cityscape as one ascends.

Maison Carlier challenges traditional spatial distribution by reimagining the allocation of functions across different levels. The second floor is dedicated to the bedrooms, providing a serene and private retreat. Conversely, the living rooms occupy the third floor, enveloped in sunlight thanks to the generous incorporation of expansive windows. The interconnected living spaces boast varying ceiling heights, demarcating their respective purposes. The glass extrusion reappears on this level as a skylight within the double-height space, further enhancing the sense of openness and connection to the outdoors.

Through its synergy of simple volumes that seamlessly integrate into the neighborhood, Maison Carlier emerges as an expressive work of architectural art. The meticulous attention to detail and the play of textures within the structure’s materials make it a true masterpiece. Every aspect of Maison Carlier reflects the passion and creativity of yh2’s design team, including Marie-Claude Hamelin, Loukas Yiacouvakis, Lisa Busmey, Étienne Sédillot, and Karl Choquette.

Meticulously executed and thoughtfully designed, Maison Carlier stands as a testament to yh2’s expertise in creating architectural wonders that captivate both the eye and the soul. The project seamlessly merges contemporary aesthetics with the essence of the neighborhood, resulting in a harmonious blend of innovation and tradition.

The strategic location of Maison Carlier in Montreal’s Little Italy district adds another layer of significance to the project. This vibrant and culturally rich neighborhood serves as the perfect backdrop for this architectural gem. With its bustling streets, charming cafes, and artistic atmosphere, Little Italy is an ideal setting for those seeking a dynamic urban lifestyle.

The collaborative efforts of yh2 and the visionary clients, Joey Mastrogiuseppe and Lisa Wolofsky, have brought Maison Carlier to life. Their shared vision and commitment to excellence have resulted in a truly remarkable dwelling that redefines urban living. The fusion of their ideas, combined with yh2’s architectural prowess, has created a masterpiece that transcends the ordinary.

In addition to the exceptional design, the execution of Maison Carlier required the expertise and dedication of various collaborators. The engineering excellence of Ingénieurs Géniex ensured the structural integrity of the project, while the construction teams from Loracon Construction, Construction Cargem, Carrelage M. Clement, and Maçonnerie Gy Inc. meticulously transformed the architectural vision into a tangible reality.

Capturing the essence and beauty of Maison Carlier is the talented photographer Maxime Brouillet. Through his lens, the unique elements of the design, the interplay of materials, and the harmony of light and space come to life, enabling viewers to experience the architectural marvel from a different perspective.

Maison Carlier’s completion in July 2022 marked the culmination of years of meticulous planning, innovation, and craftsmanship. The project serves as a testament to the transformative power of architecture, showcasing how thoughtful design can enhance and elevate the urban landscape while providing an exceptional living experience.

As an architectural gem in Montreal’s Little Italy district, Maison Carlier exemplifies the future of urban densification. It serves as an inspiration for architects, designers, and individuals who appreciate the interplay of form, function, and aesthetics. By seamlessly blending into its surroundings, Maison Carlier has become an integral part of the vibrant fabric of the neighborhood, adding to its cultural and architectural richness.

In conclusion, Maison Carlier designed by yh2 is a remarkable urban densification project that beautifully combines contemporary design with the charm of Montreal’s Little Italy district. The seamless integration of materials, the innovative use of space, and the attention to detail make Maison Carlier a true architectural masterpiece. This exceptional project showcases yh2’s expertise in creating awe-inspiring designs that redefine urban living. As Maison Carlier stands tall in the heart of Montreal, it not only enriches the neighborhood but also leaves an indelible mark on the architectural landscape of the city.

Technical sheet

Project Name: Maison Carlier
Location: Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Completion date: Juillet 2022
Clients: Joey Mastrogiuseppe et Lisa Wolofsky
Architects: yh2
Design team: Marie-Claude Hamelin, Loukas Yiacouvakis, Lisa Busmey, Étienne Sédillot, Karl Choquette
Collaborator: Ingénieurs Géniex
Contractors: Loracon Construction, Construction Cargem, Carrelage M. Clement, Maçonnerie Gy Inc.
Photographer: Maxime Brouillet