Industrial Elegance Meets Modern Living: Montreal’s Elmire Loft by LA Firme
Nestled in Montreal’s historic Plateau Mont-Royal, the Elmire Loft by LA Firme is a masterclass in adaptive reuse, transforming a 19th-century industrial building into a contemporary sanctuary. Once home to a textile mill and the iconic Campbell Soup factory, this space now harmonizes raw industrial heritage with minimalist warmth. Exposed oak beams, original brick arches, and bold modern insertions create a dialogue between past and present a testament to thoughtful preservation and innovative design.
A Nod to History, A Vision for Modernity
LA Firme’s approach celebrates the building’s骨架 while reimagining its soul. The original timber beams and brickwork remain untouched, their rugged textures juxtaposed against sleek, custom millwork in white oak. These volumetric inserts serve dual purposes: concealing storage, framing living areas, and subtly guiding the eye through the open-plan layout. The result? A space that feels both expansive and intimate a rarity in urban lofts.
Split-Level Living with Purpose
The raised living area offers unobstructed views of Mont-Royal, blending drama with functionality. A discreet pull-out guest bed tucks into custom millwork, proving that compact spaces can prioritize both form and comfort. Nearby, the kitchen crafted for geology and food enthusiasts features a stunning Labradorite granite island, stainless steel accents, and rich oak cabinetry. Cleverly hidden behind clean lines are a coffee nook, laundry, and water closet, all seamlessly integrated.
Small Spaces, Bold Statements
Even the powder room, nestled within a white oak volume, makes an impact. Its meticulous finishes reflect the project’s ethos: no square inch is wasted. Upstairs, a sunlit gallery centers around the owners’ piano, bathed in natural light a serene retreat for creativity. Custom shelving, doubling as spatial dividers, ensures visual continuity, while the primary suite’s wardrobes hide a surprise: a curated wine collection, merging personal passion with design.
Textural Contrasts in the Bathroom
The bathroom is a tactile symphony. Calacatta Verde marble and geometric tiles form a seamless backsplash, while retro glass blocks diffuse light a nostalgic yet functional nod to 1980s design. Every detail, from the stone’s veining to the cabinetry’s grain, feels deliberate.
Final Notes: Design That Listens
LA Firme’s genius lies in listening to the building’s history, its neighborhood, and its inhabitants. The Elmire Loft isn’t just a renovation; it’s a conversation. Industrial grit meets modern precision, proving that the best designs honor their roots while embracing evolution.
Credits
Photography: Ulysse Lemerise
Architects/Designers: LA Firme
Custom Millwork: Atelier 13
Natural Stone: Ateliers Stoneage
Lighting: Lambert et Fils
✦ ArchUp Editorial Insight
The Elmire Loft exemplifies how industrial spaces can be reimagined for modern living without erasing their storied past. LA Firme’s meticulous balance of raw textures and refined inserts creates a home that feels both timeless and intentional. However, the design’s emphasis on minimalism might challenge those who crave more ornamentation or color—though this restraint is precisely what amplifies the loft’s architectural drama. Ultimately, the project’s brilliance lies in its quiet details: the hidden wine cellar, the multifunctional millwork, and the play of light through retro glass blocks. It’s a reminder that the most enduring designs are those that marry history with lived-in warmth.
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