T.D.C: Rue de la Gauchetière Loft by Future Simple Studio

The Rue de la Gauchetière project is a thoughtful apartment renovation in Canada by Future Simple Studio. Located in a one hundred year-old heritage building near the Old Port of Montreal, the loft has been updated with an elegant and unexpected architectural intervention that accommodates flexibility and togetherness for family living, while celebrating the space’s unique industrial character.

With flexibility and light as top priorities, Future Simple Studio created a simple and adaptable concept — a box inside the box — with two glazed convertible wooden volumes. Thoughtfully arranged within the concrete space, these are designed as bedrooms and are used as spatial tools to organise the surrounding functional areas of the home including the kitchen, living, dining and study, as well as spaces for reading and exercise. At once object and architecture, each is crafted as a bespoke kit of parts that includes everything from ceiling panels and mullions, to flooring and furniture. The bedrooms are also fitted with a series of automated blinds — both sheer and blackout — that transform them from open spaces to semi or fully private rooms. In the evening, when the sheer blinds are drawn and the lights are on, both rooms appear as floating lanterns in an open plan space, creating a dream-like atmosphere that defies the traditional image of home, while providing all the necessary comforts.

Punctuated with bespoke built-ins and furniture designed by the studio, the apartment features a poured concrete bathroom sink top, custom bookshelf and desk, and convertible bed frame (to name a few). A tactile material palette inspired by the building’s original character can be seen throughout. Walnut plywood structures echo the earth tones of the brick walls, warm grey flooring and textiles pick up on the concrete, while glass and mirrors emphasize the airiness of the space with a constant play of light and reflection. The ample addition of greenery, including vines and an 11-foot outdoor tree, adds a surprising and soothing natural dimension to the loft’s downtown context.

With its innovative architectural elements, open plan living, versatile bedrooms and natural palette, the Rue de la Gauchetière loft offers a new take on city living for a young family - one that is both beautiful and practical.