Located in Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville, this bungalow built in the 60s and owned by a young family had already undergone some renovations. With ever-growing needs and four young children, the clients wanted to adapt the residence to their new reality. The mandate was to enlarge and renovate the building while preserving its original cachet. The program was to include a new kitchen, a new dining room that comfortably accommodates the six family members, a new master suite and dedicated bathroom, a new laundry room and a refurbished lobby.

In order to preserve the size of the building similar to the surrounding houses, the project is based on the extension of the existing ground floor in the backyard. A simple extension of the existing roof serves to cover the new volume. Consequently, the proportions as perceived from the public space of the street remain unchanged. The new volume is covered with the same facings as the original house; an architectural composition mixing staggered brick, soldier brick and vertical wood. The new, north-facing openings provide soft, even daylight throughout the day.

In the extension of the ground floor is a new kitchen, generously fenestrated on a new outdoor terrace. The ceiling of this space is supported by exposed wooden beams; a classic detail inspired by the 60s. The central island is sized to the needs of the family and can accommodate six people comfortably seated. The kitchen cabinets conceal a service counter, for accessories and everyday appliances. In the basement, the extension allows to create a master suite including a dedicated bathroom.

Inside the original building, the analysis of the circulations led to the reconfiguration of the staircase. This new layout, with the addition of claustras of wood slats inspired by the modernist current, allows the large living room to be organized in different sub-areas without isolating them from each other. The relocation of the kitchen in the extension frees up space for a spacious dining room. The lobby is reconfigured in the existing space to help contain daily traffic. Adjacent to the lobby, the residual space becomes a boudoir to receive guests. The different sub-areas of the living area are now better defined, while being converted into an open space.

In short, this expansion project has optimized circulation, increased the useable area and magnified modernist elements inherited from another era.