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A single-family residential project in Montreal, named L’Escher, is based on a non-traditional layout, centred around a sculptural staircase connecting the three levels of the house, evoking similarities to a renowned lithograph of an endless staircase by Dutch artist M.C. Escher.
The house gets its name because the lithograph featured optical illusions created by rigged perspectives and impossible constructions.
Initially a two-storey duplex built in the 1930s, the project, situated on 6th Avenue in the Rosemont-La-Petite-Patrie borough of Montreal, involved a comprehensive renovation of the building to transform it into a single-family home with the addition of a mezzanine. The young family with three children has a passion for architecture and sought an urban and contemporary residence which had unique and unconventional living spaces.
Designed by the Montreal-based architect, naturehumaine, on the ground floor, the living areas flow within an open layout, emphasizing a sculptural staircase that ascends vertically over three floors, culminating at the mezzanine. All spaces within the house are thoughtfully arranged around the periphery of the staircase, making it the central focal point of the entire project.
The master bedroom is located on the upper level, thoughtfully separated from the children’s bedrooms by the unfolding staircase; and the mezzanine is crowned by a skylight.
The angular and artistic cuts defining the perimeter of the skylight enhance the ample natural light. The staircase, crafted from raw steel plates, is reminiscent of snakes and ladders. Its striking design animates the space and infuses the entire house with a distinct character.
The rear facade of the house maintains a black-and-white theme, featuring charred wood siding, vertical, white-painted pine slats, and raw fibre cement panels.
A rounded overhanging volume, housing the master bedroom, shields part of the ground floor terrace from the elements. This east-facing projection volume offers its occupants morning light and adds a soft gradient of light on its curved surfaces.
This house boldly explores the boundaries of daring architectural design, offering its occupants a stimulating and unconventional living space.
