journal
Photography: Alex Lesage
27 / 04 / 2026
In the heart of Westmount, the renovation of Wood Residence stands as an exercise in sensitivity, where a deep respect for the original architectural character merges seamlessly with the demands of modern living.
Focused on preserving and enhancing pre-existing elements, the intervention maintains the spatial layout typical of this historic district, celebrating the fluidity between social areas and the very soul of the structure.
Upon entry, guests are greeted by a chequered floor of Alpi Verde and Bianco Carrara marble, establishing an immediate dialogue between the classic and the contemporary. The façade’s iconic oval window served as the muse for the hallway furniture, where curved lines sublimely frame the natural light, transforming a functional feature into a standout design piece.
In the living room, the original architecture finds a new lease of life through the introduction of bespoke built-in shelving that frames the natural stone fireplace, reinforcing it as the focal point of the home. Light, a central theme throughout the project, floods the space via the generous bay window, complemented by a selection of understated furniture that allows the exterior landscape (dominated by a centuries-old tree in the front garden) to take centre stage.
The transition between floors is, perhaps, the finest metaphor for this renovation. The original staircase, once in disrepair, has been reimagined with a formal rigour that combines traditional mouldings with a lacquered steel handrail recessed into the structure. It is in this detail, the result of close collaboration between designers and craftsmen, that the essence of Wood Residence lies: meticulous attention to detail.
The kitchen, located at the rear, remains in its original position but now opens out to the exterior through anthracite-toned French doors. The subtle contrast between the marble worktops and the functionality of the new central island adapts the space for contemporary lifestyles without compromising its timeless elegance.
On the upper floor, the master suite represents the pinnacle of sophistication. Drawing inspiration from boutique hotel concepts, the en-suite bathroom is separated by textured glass doors that ensure privacy without obstructing the flow of light. The wall-to-wall vanity and walk-in shower further enhance the luxurious and refined character of this private retreat.
Ultimately, Wood Residence is a tribute to continuity. By redesigning mouldings and preserving the home’s original volume, the project does more than just renovate; it elevates Westmount’s identity, proving that it is possible to honour the past while designing for the future.
Upon entry, guests are greeted by a chequered floor of Alpi Verde and Bianco Carrara marble, establishing an immediate dialogue between the classic and the contemporary. The façade’s iconic oval window served as the muse for the hallway furniture, where curved lines sublimely frame the natural light, transforming a functional feature into a standout design piece.
In the living room, the original architecture finds a new lease of life through the introduction of bespoke built-in shelving that frames the natural stone fireplace, reinforcing it as the focal point of the home. Light, a central theme throughout the project, floods the space via the generous bay window, complemented by a selection of understated furniture that allows the exterior landscape (dominated by a centuries-old tree in the front garden) to take centre stage.
The transition between floors is, perhaps, the finest metaphor for this renovation. The original staircase, once in disrepair, has been reimagined with a formal rigour that combines traditional mouldings with a lacquered steel handrail recessed into the structure. It is in this detail, the result of close collaboration between designers and craftsmen, that the essence of Wood Residence lies: meticulous attention to detail.
The kitchen, located at the rear, remains in its original position but now opens out to the exterior through anthracite-toned French doors. The subtle contrast between the marble worktops and the functionality of the new central island adapts the space for contemporary lifestyles without compromising its timeless elegance.
On the upper floor, the master suite represents the pinnacle of sophistication. Drawing inspiration from boutique hotel concepts, the en-suite bathroom is separated by textured glass doors that ensure privacy without obstructing the flow of light. The wall-to-wall vanity and walk-in shower further enhance the luxurious and refined character of this private retreat.
Ultimately, Wood Residence is a tribute to continuity. By redesigning mouldings and preserving the home’s original volume, the project does more than just renovate; it elevates Westmount’s identity, proving that it is possible to honour the past while designing for the future.
For more information, visit Vives St-Laurent website.


