Inside the MBM House: A Tudor Revival Masterpiece in Montreal
Nestled in the picturesque neighborhood of Westmount, Montreal, the MBM House is an architectural marvel. This residence combines the historical grandeur of Tudor Revival with modern sensibilities. Originally constructed in 1936, the home has undergone a breathtaking transformation by MXMA Architecture & Design and Chamberland Design. This renovation honors its rich heritage while enhancing its functionality for a contemporary family of eight. Join us as we tour this luxurious abode and explore its myriad spaces and design choices that exemplify a harmonious blend of past and present.
Exterior Elegance
As you approach the MBM House, the impressive two-story stone facade immediately captures your attention. Slender doors and leaded stained glass windows add to its charm. The steeply pitched terracotta roof evokes the Tudor style. Moreover, the lush surroundings and proximity to Mount Royal provide a serene backdrop. This home’s location offers stunning views of the city and connects its occupants to the historic charm of its neighborhood, shared with iconic residences like the T.W. McAnulty House.
Grand Entrance: A Statement of Style
Stepping through the grand entrance, you are welcomed into a spacious foyer. Here, the elegant design begins to unfold. The original staircase serves as the centerpiece of the home. Reimagined into a continuous black oak ribbon, it links all four levels. Its minimalist metal balusters and refined detailing draw the eye upward. Consequently, this invites exploration of the upper floors. This striking element sets the tone for the modern yet timeless aesthetic that permeates the entire house.
Timeless Kitchen Style
The kitchen design is a highlight, featuring minimalist modules from the Danish company VIPP. These sleek wall-mounted units offer both functionality and style, harmonizing beautifully with the historic ambiance of the home. Additionally, a vast central island serves as a gathering point for family meals, embodying the spirit of togetherness that the owners cherish.
Living Room: Light and Flow
Moving into the open-concept living area, natural light floods through reimagined south-facing windows. This creates a bright and airy atmosphere. The seamless flow from the living room to the dining room encourages family gatherings and social events. Imposing French doors open onto a large covered terrace. Here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River and the surrounding greenery, perfect for outdoor entertaining.
The Library: A Cozy Retreat
On the first floor, a bold navy blue library beckons. It envelops visitors in a cocoon of warmth and intimacy. The carefully curated furnishings and built-in elements, all in a rich blue hue, create an inviting space perfect for reading or contemplation. The original grey stone fireplace serves as a reminder of the house’s storied past while complementing the elegant white oak flooring.
Luxurious Bathing Retreat: A Harmonious Balance
The bathroom boasts a fluted white oak vanity and strategic lighting. These elements ensure a refined and functional atmosphere. Here, the balance of classic and contemporary is at its finest. Thus, it offers a peaceful haven for the homeowners.
Master Suite: A Sanctuary of Serenity
As we ascend to the second floor, the master suite awaits. This tranquil escape provides relief from the hustle and bustle of family life. The suite features a wood-clad vestibule that connects to a luxurious bathroom. Frosted marble slabs adorn the walls and ceilings, creating a sense of monochromatic elegance. Furthermore, a large window frames a picturesque view of a century-old tree, bringing nature into the serene space.
Attic Retreat: A Playful Escape
Hidden behind a secret door in the attic lies a delightful pink bathroom. This whimsical space showcases a playful spirit that reflects the joy of childhood. Covered in vibrant pink ceramic tiles, it serves as a charming retreat for the youngest member of the family. It proves that elegance can coexist with fun.
Basement Transformation: A Bright New World
Descending to the basement reveals a remarkable transformation. This once-dark area has been excavated and redesigned to create comfortable living spaces connected to the outdoors. Four large French doors provide access to the garden, flooding the rooms with sunlight and offering stunning views of the meticulously landscaped courtyard.
The innovative use of concrete flooring captures and releases sunlight, enhancing energy efficiency while contributing to the home’s overall comfort.
A Balanced
Throughout the MBM House, the architects at MXMA have masterfully preserved its historic character while introducing modern elements. The meticulous restoration of original leaded windows and the careful selection of materials echo the home’s Tudor heritage. This ensures its legacy endures for generations to come.
This remarkable renovation not only respects the architectural integrity of the MBM House but also embodies the family’s vision of creating a luxurious, sustainable home. Here, history and modernity coexist in perfect harmony. In every room of the MBM House, thoughtful design choices reflect the owners’ commitment to a harmonious lifestyle. Thus, it stands as a true testament to the magic of architectural innovation and preservation.
Photo credit: Maxime Brouillet
Architect & Design Credits: MXMA Architecture & Design + Chamberland Design
