On Montreal’s bustling Saint-Laurent Boulevard, a new establishment offers more than just a quick lunch; it offers a moment of respite. Renzo, a sandwich shop conceived by local practice MRDK – Ménard Dworkind architecture & design, presents a masterclass in how thoughtful interior design can elevate the everyday ritual of dining. The project is a nuanced exploration of texture, memory, and function, creating a space that feels both entirely new and comfortingly familiar from the moment you cross its threshold.
The experience begins underfoot with a custom mosaic tile floor, a intricate pattern laid in hues of beige, burgundy, and blue. This bespoke detail establishes a playful yet grounded rhythm, guiding visitors into the softly lit interior. Along one wall, a series of cozy two-seater booths upholstered in a soft yellow invite intimate conversation, each paired with classic diner-style yellow laminate tables. For those preferring a view of the city’s lively pulse, a standing bar runs along the front window, complemented by retro stools that offer the perfect perch for people-watching.
Above, the ceiling clad in pale blue wooden tongue and groove boards adds a layer of subtle texture and a gentle, calming overhead presence. This soft, desaturated palette is a defining feature, creating a cohesive and harmonious atmosphere. The main service counter, finished in a muted beige, effortlessly harmonizes with the yellow tones of the tables and banquettes, while walls wrapped in dark-stained oak slats lend the space a rich, organic depth. This material choice anchors the more vibrant accents with something timeless and durable, ensuring the design feels built to last.
Lighting plays a crucial role in shaping the ambiance. Vintage-style fluorescent tube lights cast a diffuse, utilitarian glow that consciously recalls the understated charm of a traditional butcher shop or a classic luncheonette. This is not a space trying to be overly sleek or futuristic; its power lies in its unassuming authenticity.
Functionality is woven seamlessly into the fabric of the design. A large, custom-built cabinet anchors one end of the space, housing grab-and-go fridges and thoughtfully designed shelving. This unit displays a curated selection of fine local and imported products, effectively blurring the line between a neighbourhood sandwich shop and a specialty grocery. The display is clean, accessible, and quietly refined, inviting discovery without overwhelming the senses.
At the very heart of Renzo lies the open kitchen, a decision that speaks volumes about the brand’s ethos. It allows guests to witness the careful choreography behind every order—sandwiches assembled with speed, care, and precision. This transparency is a subtle reminder that craft and transparency are central to the experience here.
Adding a final layer of character are hand-painted graphic elements, applied directly to the interior walls and the exterior facade. These marks speak not to overt branding, but to a sense of presence and intention. They are marks of permanence that make the place feel lovingly worn in, even though it is brand new.
Ultimately, Renzo Montreal is not trying to be flashy. Through its materiality and texture, its respectful nod to understated nostalgia, and its focus on community and craft, MRDK has designed a space that strives to feel like it’s always been there. It’s a warm and functional neighbourhood fixture that welcomes you back often, and always with friends.