Sid Lee Architecture and Canora Real Estate Agency have breathed new life into a historic building in Montreal‘s Shaughnessy Village. By transforming the space into a student residence, the designers have created a vibrant and inspiring environment that celebrates both the past and the future. This initiative invites students to immerse themselves in a thoughtfully designed environment, where every object and room sparks inspiration. Rather than simply redefining student housing, Le Within sets a new benchmark, enhancing the living experience.
The project plays a vital role in revitalizing the downtown area, seamlessly merging tradition with modernity to create a unique and engaging atmosphere. The idea behind this transformation stems from a fundamental truth: students thrive on the energy of their surroundings. To ensure their academic years are unforgettable, they need a safe and stimulating environment. Le Within promises just that—student lofts that encapsulate the essence of Montreal.
Designed to provide a wealth of opportunities, the residence allows its inhabitants to connect with the city’s vibrant pulse and unlock their full potential. Living at Le Within fosters a community that encourages self-discovery, empowering students to become the architects of their own journeys and to let their creativity flourish.
Charles Paiement, president of Canora, emphasizes the project’s bold commercial vision, addressing the needs of the growing student population. “Le Within is an invitation to experience the city in a new light, transforming every moment into a learning opportunity,” he states, highlighting the project’s commitment to enriching student life.
This vision is anchored by four key design principles: duality, immersion, modularity, and urbanity, which collectively shape the experience of living at Le Within, ensuring it resonates deeply with the dynamic spirit of Montreal.
With a carefully curated palette of colors, shapes, textures, and styles, Le Within reveals a delicate interplay of contrasts. The blend of traditional and modern design elements, deeply embedded in the brand’s essence, showcases a sensibility that bridges generations. This visual dialogue between heritage and contemporary flair resonates with both the residents of Le Within and their parents.
The concept of a frame within a frame invites a rich sensory journey that goes beyond mere functionality. This mise en abyme is woven into the architecture, furnishings, and decor, where the repetition of materials like glass blocks, 4×4 tiles, and metallic grid patterns creates a cohesive thread that unites the varied functions of the residence.
Le Within seamlessly transitions from study to leisure within a versatile space that embodies the multifaceted nature of student life. Each area is designed to be adaptable, catering to both individual and group needs. This strategy promotes a dynamic personalization of communal areas, encouraging fluid interactions and maximizing utility.
The color palette was carefully chosen to root the project in its local heritage. The vibrant red pays tribute to the iconic brick buildings of Milton-Parc, while the subtle gray mirrors the paved streets that weave through the neighborhood. Lush green hues evoke the beauty of Mont Royal during its verdant season. Additionally, the lively food scene of the city inspired the inclusion of orange, a nod to the renowned restaurant that shares its name. Soft salmon and creamy tones reflect the beloved toppings of Montreal’s world-famous bagels.
The design of the communal spaces was meticulously crafted to enhance the residential experience, informed by a thoughtful analysis of their intended use and functionality. The ground floor serves as a conceptual crossroads between a garden and a library, blending nature with knowledge. These elements inspired the biophilic design of the hallways, while the lobby exudes an academic ambiance. Drawing inspiration from the hospitality sector, the lobby creates a welcoming environment that fosters community connections among residents.
“Le Within embodies our vision of a student residence that goes beyond traditional housing,” states Jean Pelland, Architect and Principal Partner at Sid Lee Architecture. The revitalization of a historical building was aimed at providing students with a truly distinctive living experience, where architecture and design, deeply rooted in heritage, prioritize their wellbeing.
At the garden level, visitors are invited to step through a reflective threshold, where a wealth of services awaits. The study room features a large communal table, designed for a multitude of uses. A series of adaptable rooms create a flexible environment that can cater to a diverse range of activities, whether it be an art gallery, a meditation space, or a play and exercise area, all shifting with the seasons and the interests of the students.
Lastly, the communal kitchen boasts an oversized table, reinforcing opportunities for collaboration and interaction among students. This space not only serves as a place for cooking but also as a hub for social engagement, encouraging a sense of community and shared experiences.