Project Highlights
Project: Triplex Fabre
Site: Rue Fabre, Montréal, Québec, Canada
Area: 3000 ft2 (280m2)
Architecture: Atelier L’Abri
Project team: Pia Hocheneder, Vincent Pasquier, Nicolas Lapierre, Francis Martel-Labrecque
Construction: Modulor
Structural engineer: R.W.Harvey ing.
Completion: 2023
Photography: Alex Lesage
Collaboration on design : Julien Rozon (m.arch)
In the charming Petit Laurier neighborhood of Montreal, the Triplex Fabre project stands as a testament to the seamless integration of tradition and modernity in residential architecture. Led by the innovative team at Atelier L’Abri in collaboration with Modulor Construction, this renovation project revitalizes a classic triplex, accommodating two generations of a family. The project, completed in 2023, showcases a thoughtful approach to design that prioritizes natural light, open spaces, and a harmonious connection between indoor and outdoor living.
Preserving Architectural Heritage
One of the standout aspects of the Triplex Fabre project is its respectful preservation of the original architectural elements that define the neighborhood. The front facade retains its red brick charm, complemented by restored stone details and ornamental cornices. These features are emblematic of the Plateau-Mont-Royal district, known for its distinctive architectural character. The simplicity of the reconstructed front balconies and staircase highlights the artisanal red clay brick, while a new cornice adds a touch of refined elegance. This careful restoration ensures the triplex remains a harmonious part of its historic surroundings.
Reimagining Interior Spaces
The interior transformation of Triplex Fabre is a masterclass in maximizing space and light. The renovation rethinks the typical layout of Montreal apartments, emphasizing open floor plans that promote ease of movement and a sense of spaciousness. By minimizing the proportions of bedrooms and bathrooms, the design frees up space for more generous living areas. This clever reconfiguration allows natural light to flood the interiors, creating bright, inviting spaces. The neutral color palette and uniform texture work throughout the units contribute to a serene and cohesive aesthetic, providing a calming backdrop for everyday life.
Enhancing Outdoor Living
The rear facade of Triplex Fabre has been significantly enhanced to extend the living space outdoors. Enlarged openings and expanded balconies offer each unit a generous outdoor area, seamlessly connecting the interiors with the exterior environment. These outdoor spaces are not just functional extensions but also aesthetic ones, characterized by a burgundy red hue that complements the interior’s neutral tones. The backyard shed, a distinctive feature of Montreal duplexes and triplexes, has been revitalized with white corrugated sheet metal siding, creating a striking contrast while maintaining a cohesive design theme.
Collaborative Design Approach
The success of the Triplex Fabre project is deeply rooted in its collaborative design approach. The family residing in the triplex played an integral role in the renovation process, with the sons—one a graduate in architecture and the other a carpenter—contributing directly to the project. This personal involvement ensured that the design was not only sensitive to the family’s needs but also rich in craftsmanship and detail. The result is a project that feels intimately connected to its environment and its inhabitants, reflecting a perfect blend of professional expertise and personal touch.
Conclusion
The Triplex Fabre renovation project by Atelier L’Abri is a remarkable example of how thoughtful design can breathe new life into traditional architecture. By preserving historical elements, reimagining interior layouts, enhancing outdoor living spaces, and embracing a collaborative approach, the project creates a harmonious living environment that respects its past while looking forward to the future. This blend of old and new, tradition and innovation, makes Triplex Fabre a standout example of residential architecture in Montreal.
