Picture a home perched on a Colorado mountain, where every window frames a stunning view. West Watch is that vision brought to life – a modern retreat that merges with the Rockies, using natural materials and smart design to create a space that's efficient, inviting, and deeply connected to nature. Our clients dreamed of a mountain home with easy outdoor flow, from a wide sliding door to a spacious deck and a cozy hot tub. They wanted materials like wood, concrete, and metal that feel authentic and blend in. Sustainability was key too, going beyond basics to make the home energy-smart in the high altitude. At over 8,000 feet, harsh weather can mean high energy costs and building challenges. We addressed that with a compact shape to cut heat loss and waste, plus south-west facing windows for free solar warmth in winter. Overhangs keep summer heat out, so the home stays comfortable year-round without extra expenses or effort. The core concept? Harmony with the mountains. The home's orientation captures sun for passive heating, with big windows letting in light and views. A disappearing glass door opens the space wide, while overhangs provide shade. Practical touches like carport storage and a ships ladder to the loft keep everything functional and space-savvy. We used simple wood framing for strength and affordability, with wood siding and a metal roof built to handle mountain snow and rain. These choices make the home durable and low-maintenance, blending seamlessly into the landscape while keeping costs in check. Inside, it's all about simplicity and openness, with clean designs that highlight the outdoors. The main level flows to the deck, and the loft adds extra room without complicating things – creating a calm, versatile space for daily life. West Watch has become a true mountain sanctuary, saving energy and embracing the views in every way. It's a home that feels right at home in Colorado, offering comfort, sustainability, and those unforgettable moments – designed to last and inspire for years ahead.

Building a Dream Backyard When this homeowner started the design process of a new backyard, Braen Supply was immediately there to supply all the stone materials. The home was part of a new development, so the challenge was to make the home stand out while still addressing specific areas of the existing backyard, such as the steep grade. Working With the Experts Taking the steep grade into consideration, moss rock boulders were selected to create stairs down to the lower area of the backyard where the fire pit sits. The grade of the backyard also allowed for the infinity pool, full color bluestone pattern was selected as the veneer for the back wall of the infinity pool. Braen Supply chose Tennessee gray and bluestone to create a seamless transition from the front of the house to the back of the house. Although they are two different stones, they work nicely together to complete the overall design and tone of the home. It all came together and made the perfect backyard. Materials Used: Belgium Blocks Full Color Bluestone Pattern Bluestone Caps Tennessee Gray Irregular Moss Rock Boulders Full Color Bluestone Irregular Kearney Stone Steps Granite Mosaic Veneer Completed Areas: Front Walkway & Porch Driveway Edging Backyard Walkways Pool Patio & Coping Pool Water Features Fireplace Hearth & Mantal Wading Pool Raised Hot Tub

This 1929 Tudor kitchen and porch in St. Paul’s Macalester-Groveland neighborhood was ready for a remodel. The existing back porch was falling off the home and the kitchen was a challenge for the family. A new kitchen was designed that opened up to the dining room, to create more light and sense of space. A small back addition was completed to extend the mudroom space and storage. Castle designed and constructed a new open back porch with Azek composite decking, new railing, and stunning arch detail on the roof to coordinate with the home’s existing sweeping lines. Inside the kitchen, Crystal cabinetry, Silestone quartz countertops, Blanco composite sink, Kohler faucet, new appliances from Warners’ Stellian, chevron tile backsplash from Ceramic Tileworks, and new hardwoods, laced in to match the existing, fully update the space. One of our favorite details is the glass-doored pantry for the homeowners to showcase their Fiestaware! Tour this project in person, September 28 – 29, during the 2019 Castle Home Tour!

The design challenge was to maximize storage in a small galley kitchen where existing clutter overflowed into the dining room. The goal was to create a seamless and functional solution without sacrificing the space’s flow or aesthetic. To address this, we opened up a wall adjacent to the kitchen and dining room, creating room for two built-in pantries flush with the wall. These added pantries provided much-needed storage while maintaining a clean, integrated look.

The backyard in this Dunwoody, GA residence presented several challenges, including failing cinder block walls, unsafe steps, and an aging deck. These issues rendered the space largely unusable and created drainage problems, limiting both safety and functionality for the homeowners. Our team addressed these issues by removing all existing structures and undertaking a comprehensive rebuild. This involved regrading the area for proper drainage, constructing new retaining walls, and installing integrated steps for safe access throughout the yard. Multiple paver patios were also installed to create defined entertaining areas. The outcome is a safe and highly functional outdoor living space in Dunwoody. The new retaining walls provide essential structural support, the drainage system manages stormwater effectively, and the integrated patios and walkways offer inviting areas for recreation and access.

Located in the heart of Montreal, Binôme is an architectural urban densification project built by Modulor. Composed of two distinct buildings connected by an inner courtyard, this new five-unit development stands out through its unique layout, architecture, and exceptional attention to detail. The construction required rigorous planning and precise technical execution, particularly due to major excavation work and underpinning of adjacent buildings. Such interventions in a dense urban environment demand specialized expertise and tight project management at every phase of the build. Conceived as an income-generating property, the clients benefited from our strategic support to ensure the profitability, efficiency, and optimization of their investment. Modulor worked closely with the team at Appareil Architecture to bring to life a project of high architectural integrity. Binôme’s architecture draws inspiration from the area's industrial past: clean volumes, red brick, generous openings reminiscent of former workshops, and elegant brick colonnades form a refined and cohesive ensemble. The central courtyard, designed as a luminous and welcoming shared space, becomes the vibrant heart of the project. A colorful metal staircase, crafted by Atomic Soudure, connects both buildings and adds a distinctive, curated touch. As a finalist for the 2025 Ordre des architectes du Québec Awards of Excellence, Binôme stands as a model of successful urban revitalization. It illustrates how thoughtful, well-executed construction can elevate Montreal’s built environment while addressing today’s densification challenges.

This home prized itself on unique architecture, with sharp angles and interesting geometric shapes incorporated throughout the design. We wanted to intermix this style in a softer fashion, while also maintaining functionality in the kitchen and bathrooms that were to be remodeled. The refreshed spaces now exude a highly contemporary allure, featuring integrated hardware, rich wood tones, and intriguing asymmetrical cabinetry, all anchored by a captivating silver roots marble. In the bathrooms, integrated slab sinks took the spotlight, while the powder room countertop radiated a subtle glow. To address previous storage challenges, a full-height cabinet was introduced in the hall bath, optimizing space. Additional storage solutions were seamlessly integrated into the primary closet, adjacent to the primary bath. Despite the dark wood cabinetry, strategic lighting choices and lighter finishes were employed to enhance the perceived spaciousness of the rooms.

Inspired by noted American architect Norman Jaffe, the strikingly contemporary Sagaponack Residence on Long Island is highlighted by distinctively unique angles both inside and out. Jaffe was widely recognized for his contemporary residential style and use of natural materials and passive solar forms of design for his many South Long Island beach houses. The 2,700 sq. ft. private residence is located one-half mile from the Atlantic coast and sited in an area that was originally characterized by long vistas over farm fields to the ocean beyond. Now, the area is thickly built up with weekend homes. The project was meant to address this change by creating a place that focuses on the immediate landscape and provides a garden environment for the owner. A collaborative arrangement between two architectural firms brought the project to life. Andrew Reyniak, principal at ARAPC, New York, was architect of record; Mark Anthony C. Verzosa, principal at +macv, Sag Harbor, NY, was design consultant and general contractor. “We knew we wanted to use zinc from the beginning,” Verzosa said. “We wanted a material that had a life.” Approximately 5,500 sq. ft. of prePATINA blue-grey RHEINZINK was specified to provide the life and the look that the design team sought. RHEINZINK Vertical Angled Standing Seam Panels and Flat Lock Tiles clad the exterior along with rough-sawn, locally-sourced white cedar. RHEINZINK Double Lock Standing Seam Panels were used on the roof. “The RHEINZINK is obviously a very versatile material,” according to Verzosa. “The color blends very well into the environment and the sky in particular. And we like the way it patinas and self-heals.” The unique design of the house incorporates unusual angles on both the exterior and interior. “There’s not a lot of 90 degree or horizontal plumb walls,” Verzosa said. “The dramatic geometry of the building created complicated detailing on the project.” Fabrication and installation of the RHEINZINK panels was done by Metropan Systems, Inc., Bayside, NY. The company specializes in zinc façade and roofing projects, according to John Gushue, president. “We’ve done more than 60 zinc projects since 2001 and the majority have been RHEINZINK,” Gushue said. “If I could do zinc every day, I would.” The unusual geometry of the Sagaponack Residence made for a challenging installation. “There was nothing cookie cutter about this job,” according to Gushue. “We began meeting with the architect about a year before actually starting the work in order to incorporate the very best detailing. Every fastener is hidden and there’s no caulk on the façade. Many of the RHEINZINK panels were fabricated on-site in order to bend around corners. And the flashing details had to be meticulous.” The design of the project presents a modern, artistic look in every aspect. “Of all the zinc projects we’ve done, this is my favorite,” Gushue said. “It was a great job to be on. And properly maintained, it could last for 150 years.”

The Setup: After purchasing this home, the homeowners faced a unique opportunity to reimagine their kitchen and nearby spaces. Water damage from a burst pipe had left much of the home’s interior in need of repair, and while the existing kitchen was functional and in relatively good shape, it didn’t align with the family’s vision for their new home. The layout included a peninsula that wasn’t ideal, and there were some druthers with the nearby pantry. Since the space needed to be rebuilt anyway, the homeowners saw this as a chance to create a kitchen that was both highly functional for their four young children and timeless in its design. The project also included a refresh of the adjacent message center and dining room — spaces that play key roles in the family’s daily life. The goal was to create a cohesive flow between these areas, balancing modern functionality with the craftsman-inspired character of the rest of the home. Design Objectives: - Replace the outdated peninsula with a large island to maximize counter space and create new seating options. - Open up the space visually by removing soffits and rethinking the cabinetry layout. Incorporate concealed refrigeration and freezer units to provide significant storage for the family while maintaining a streamlined aesthetic. - Integrate black cabinetry into the design without making the space feel harsh or heavy. - Ensure the lighting plan balances functional task lighting with ambient accent lighting. - Avoid visual clutter in the cabinetry design while still giving a nod to the craftsman aesthetic. - Incorporate a slab backsplash as a key design feature. Design Challenges: - The outdated peninsula left dead space in the kitchen and lacked sufficient seating for the family. - The cooktop wall was cramped, with small cabinets flanking the hood, limited storage, and soffits that made the space feel closed-in. - The family needed significant refrigeration space (two refrigerators and a freezer) but wanted to avoid a cluttered look with visible stainless steel appliances. - Adding black cabinetry risked making the space feel too dark or heavy. - The original lighting plan was insufficient, particularly over the dining table where a decorative fixture proved too dim. - The family wanted shaker-style drawer fronts to match the home’s arts-and-crafts design but worried that too much shaker cabinetry might look overly busy. - Prioritizing a slab backsplash in the wish list priority planning. The Renewed Space Design Solutions: - A functional island: The peninsula was replaced with a large island that provides continuous countertop space for prepping and serving. The island also features seating for four people, creating a central hub for informal meals and activities. - Streamlined cooktop wall: The soffits were removed, and the upper cabinets on the cooktop wall were eliminated to create a more open, streamlined design. A custom oversized hood became the focal point of the wall, with the blower unit offset inside it to align with the cooktop while maintaining exterior visual symmetry. - Concealed refrigeration: Two column refrigerators and one freezer were integrated into the cabinetry, concealing them behind wood paneling that blends seamlessly with the overall design. - Warm black cabinetry: The black cabinetry was crafted from hickory with a visible grain, softening its appearance and adding warmth. The grain detail gives the cabinetry a rich, textured look that avoids feeling stark or overpowering. - Additional lighting: In the dining area, recessed can lights were added during an additional installation phase to supplement the gorgeous decorative fixture’s dim output. The new lighting plan creates a layered effect, combining functional task lighting with softer ambient lighting. - Simplified cabinetry details: Slab drawer fronts were used on the upper drawers, while five-piece shaker fronts (with slightly less prominent rail and stile pieces) were reserved for the middle and lower drawers. This approach simplified the overall look while maintaining the craftsman-inspired aesthetic. - Slab backsplash priority: The slab backsplash was prioritized by making thoughtful adjustments elsewhere, like opting not to extend cabinetry to the ceiling, which also helped visually prioritize the gorgeous slab backsplash. This decision also enhanced the kitchen’s furniture-like feel, aligning with the home’s craftsman character. - This kitchen perfectly balances practicality with timeless style. By addressing the family’s functional needs — ample seating, smart storage, and effective lighting — while incorporating thoughtful design elements like warm black cabinetry and a striking slab backsplash, Alicia created a space that works beautifully for a busy household. The result is a cohesive, inviting kitchen that honors the home’s craftsman roots and will serve the family well for years to come.

Located in the heart of Montreal, Binôme is an architectural urban densification project built by Modulor. Composed of two distinct buildings connected by an inner courtyard, this new five-unit development stands out through its unique layout, architecture, and exceptional attention to detail. The construction required rigorous planning and precise technical execution, particularly due to major excavation work and underpinning of adjacent buildings. Such interventions in a dense urban environment demand specialized expertise and tight project management at every phase of the build. Conceived as an income-generating property, the clients benefited from our strategic support to ensure the profitability, efficiency, and optimization of their investment. Modulor worked closely with the team at Appareil Architecture to bring to life a project of high architectural integrity. Binôme’s architecture draws inspiration from the area's industrial past: clean volumes, red brick, generous openings reminiscent of former workshops, and elegant brick colonnades form a refined and cohesive ensemble. The central courtyard, designed as a luminous and welcoming shared space, becomes the vibrant heart of the project. A colorful metal staircase, crafted by Atomic Soudure, connects both buildings and adds a distinctive, curated touch. As a finalist for the 2025 Ordre des architectes du Québec Awards of Excellence, Binôme stands as a model of successful urban revitalization. It illustrates how thoughtful, well-executed construction can elevate Montreal’s built environment while addressing today’s densification challenges.

This was the another opportunity to work with one of our favorite clients on one of her projects. This time she wanted to completely revamp a recently purchased make-shift revenue property and convert it to a legal three-suiter maximizing rental income in a prime rental area close to NAIT. The mid-fifties semi-bungalow was in quite poor condition, so it was a challenging opportunity to address the various structural deficiencies while keeping the project at a reasonable budget. We gutted and opened up all three floors, removed a poorly constructed rear addition, and created three comfortable suites on the three separate floors. Compare the before and after pictures - a complete transformation!

This growing family of six was struggling with a dysfunctional kitchen design. The center island had been installed at an odd angle that limited accessibility and traffic flow. Additionally, storage space was limited by poor cabinet design. Finally, doorways in and out of the kitchen were narrow and poorly located, especially for children dashing in and out. Other design challenges included how to better use a 10’ x 12’ room for children’s jackets and toys and how to add a professional-quality gas range in a neighborhood were natural gas wasn’t available. The new design would address all of these issues. DESIGN SOLUTIONS The new kitchen design revolves around a more proportional island. Carefully placed in the center of the new space with seating for four, it includes a prep sink, a second dishwasher and a beverage center. The distressed ebony-stained island and hutch provides a brilliant contrast between the white color cabinetry. White Carrera marble countertops and backsplash top both island and perimeter cabinets. Tall, double stacked cabinetry lines two walls to maximize storage space. Across the room there was an unused wall that now contains a 36” tower fridge and freezer, both covered with matching panels, and a tall cabinet that contains a microwave, steam unit and warming drawer. A propane tank was buried in the back yard to provide gas to a new 60” professional range and cooktop. A custom-made wood mantel hood blends perfectly with the cabinet style. The old laundry room was reconfigured to have lots of locker space for all kids and added cabinetry for storage. A double entry door separated the new mudroom from the rest of the back hall. In the back hall the back windows were replaced with a set of French door and added decking to create a direct access to deck and backyard. The end result is an open floor plan, high-end appliances, great traffic flow and pleasing colors. The homeowner calls it the “kitchen of her dreams.”

Home Remodeling Project Overview This extensive home remodeling project transformed a dated and inefficient layout into a functional, open, and aesthetically cohesive living space. The original layout had several challenges: • A kitchen with limited storage, no cabinets on the window side, a sink facing the wall, and a range crammed into the corner. The pantry closet was too deep and impractical. • A living room that couldn’t accommodate furniture without interfering with traffic flow. • A front foyer with wasted space. • A claustrophobic hallway toilet room without a sink, located near the laundry room. The Remodeling Concept The scope of this project extended well beyond the kitchen. We proposed several layout options to address issues in all adjacent spaces, ultimately implementing a plan that: • Removed two walls and moved doorways. • Replaced the kitchen window. • Converted the hallway toilet room into a storage space. • Installed pocket doors to separate the laundry hallway from the living room. Kitchen Transformation • Open Concept: By removing the wall between the kitchen and dining room, the two spaces became a seamless open area. • New Layout: Cabinets were relocated to the window side for more storage and natural light. A central island with storage and seating was added, and a coffee bar was installed in the dining room. • Updated Pantry: The deep pantry closet was converted into a pullout pantry with a cabinet front for better accessibility. • Design Details: Off-white kitchen cabinets pair beautifully with a light green island. Warm white quartz counters and an artisan tile backsplash complete the look. Dining Room • Expanded Space: Most of the wall separating the dining room and foyer was removed, creating a more spacious area while still accommodating all furniture thanks to careful measurements. Living Room Improvements • Optimized Layout: Moving doorways and installing pocket doors allowed for better furniture placement, including a sofa that doesn’t interfere with traffic flow. • Fireplace Upgrade: The brick fireplace was updated with a three-dimensional staggered stone veneer in a color matching the kitchen cabinets, creating a cohesive look. A TV was installed above the fireplace at a comfortable viewing angle. Additional Updates • New Flooring: All remodeled rooms now feature updated flooring. • Ceilings: Popcorn ceilings were replaced with smooth, flat finishes, complemented by recessed lighting. • Walls: Fresh paint throughout the space, with an accent wall in the living room matching the light green of the kitchen island. • Lighting: Stylish sconces were added for a touch of elegance. The Result The homeowners are thrilled with the transformation, marveling at how their once cramped and inefficient home now feels spacious, functional, and beautifully cohesive. They can’t believe their house could ever look like this!

Building a Dream Backyard When this homeowner started the design process of a new backyard, Braen Supply was immediately there to supply all the stone materials. The home was part of a new development, so the challenge was to make the home stand out while still addressing specific areas of the existing backyard, such as the steep grade. Working With the Experts Taking the steep grade into consideration, moss rock boulders were selected to create stairs down to the lower area of the backyard where the fire pit sits. The grade of the backyard also allowed for the infinity pool, full color bluestone pattern was selected as the veneer for the back wall of the infinity pool. Braen Supply chose Tennessee gray and bluestone to create a seamless transition from the front of the house to the back of the house. Although they are two different stones, they work nicely together to complete the overall design and tone of the home. It all came together and made the perfect backyard. Materials Used: Belgium Blocks Full Color Bluestone Pattern Bluestone Caps Tennessee Gray Irregular Moss Rock Boulders Full Color Bluestone Irregular Kearney Stone Steps Granite Mosaic Veneer Completed Areas: Front Walkway & Porch Driveway Edging Backyard Walkways Pool Patio & Coping Pool Water Features Fireplace Hearth & Mantal Wading Pool Raised Hot Tub

Located in the heart of Montreal, Binôme is an architectural urban densification project built by Modulor. Composed of two distinct buildings connected by an inner courtyard, this new five-unit development stands out through its unique layout, architecture, and exceptional attention to detail. The construction required rigorous planning and precise technical execution, particularly due to major excavation work and underpinning of adjacent buildings. Such interventions in a dense urban environment demand specialized expertise and tight project management at every phase of the build. Conceived as an income-generating property, the clients benefited from our strategic support to ensure the profitability, efficiency, and optimization of their investment. Modulor worked closely with the team at Appareil Architecture to bring to life a project of high architectural integrity. Binôme’s architecture draws inspiration from the area's industrial past: clean volumes, red brick, generous openings reminiscent of former workshops, and elegant brick colonnades form a refined and cohesive ensemble. The central courtyard, designed as a luminous and welcoming shared space, becomes the vibrant heart of the project. A colorful metal staircase, crafted by Atomic Soudure, connects both buildings and adds a distinctive, curated touch. As a finalist for the 2025 Ordre des architectes du Québec Awards of Excellence, Binôme stands as a model of successful urban revitalization. It illustrates how thoughtful, well-executed construction can elevate Montreal’s built environment while addressing today’s densification challenges.

HNA Hardscape Project Award Winner Mahaz Project Sand Point, Michigan Esch Landscaping LLC This 3,300 square feet project was constructed on the beach of Lake Huron in Michigan. The house and landscape began on an empty lot between two homes using interlocking concrete pavers. The designer addressed elevations, proximity regulations with neighboring homes, and construction deadlines while working with clients living in another state. The owners required an outdoor kitchen, firepit, shower and sun bathing area, shade for comfort when entertaining guests and easy access to the beach. The hardscape team met challenges by coordinating and sharing space with the home construction crews. This project began in March so the wind and weather caused difficult working conditions with site facing the open water.

Master Bathroom Remodeling in Ambler, PA – A Complete Transformation by BMR Belmax Remodeling At BMR Belmax Remodeling, we specialize in creating beautiful, functional, and luxurious bathroom spaces tailored to our clients’ needs. One of our most recent projects involved a master bathroom remodeling in Ambler, PA, where we completely reimagined the layout to maximize space, improve functionality, and enhance aesthetics. The result was a modern, spacious, and inviting master bathroom that perfectly suited the homeowner’s vision. The Challenge: An Outdated and Divided Bathroom The original master bathroom in Ambler, PA was divided into two separate rooms. One area housed a vanity and closet, while the other contained the shower and toilet. While functional, this layout felt cramped, disjointed, and inefficient. The homeowners wanted to merge these two spaces into a single, cohesive master bathroom that felt larger, more open, and more luxurious. They envisioned a modern walk-in shower, enhanced storage, better lighting, and high-end finishes, all while improving the flow and accessibility of the space. Our team at BMR Belmax Remodeling worked closely with them to develop a design that addressed their needs and transformed their bathroom into a modern retreat. The Transformation: A Unified & Modern Master Bathroom Our approach to this bathroom renovation in Ambler, PA focused on space optimization, luxury finishes, and functionality. We combined the two separate rooms into one expansive master bathroom, making the space feel more open and elegant. 1. Layout Reconfiguration & Wall Removal We removed the dividing wall between the shower and vanity area to open up the space and create a more seamless layout. A new wall was built to expand the shower area, allowing for a larger and more comfortable walk-in shower. The closet and vanity space were integrated into the main bathroom layout, eliminating the need for a separate entryway and making the space more efficient and accessible. 2. Walk-In Shower with Premium Features A stunning walk-in shower with sleek glass doors was installed to give the bathroom a modern and luxurious look. We used large-format tiles on the shower walls and flooring, creating a cohesive, stylish, and low-maintenance surface. A built-in recessed niche with a custom tile shelf was added for practical storage while maintaining a clean and sophisticated design. 3. Vanity & Storage Enhancements The old vanity was replaced with a sleek, modern vanity that provided ample storage and counter space. We incorporated custom-built shelves on the left side of the vanity, offering additional storage without cluttering the design. A lighted mirror was installed above the vanity, combining style and practicality while enhancing the overall lighting in the space. 4. Elegant Fixtures & Finishes To add a touch of luxury, we installed gold-finished fixtures, including the showerhead, faucets, and cabinet handles, giving the bathroom a high-end, elegant feel. A modern one-piece toilet was installed to complement the clean and minimalist design. The bathroom’s neutral color palette and textured finishes created a calm and inviting atmosphere. 5. Enhanced Ventilation & Lighting A new exhaust fan was installed to improve air circulation and moisture control, ensuring a comfortable and mold-free environment. Additional task lighting and ambient lighting were carefully placed to make the bathroom bright, warm, and inviting. The Result: A Stunning, Spacious, and Functional Master Bathroom The completed master bathroom remodeling in Ambler, PA is now a spacious, modern retreat that perfectly blends style and functionality. By unifying the previously divided rooms, we created a flowing and open space that feels larger and more inviting. The walk-in shower, gold fixtures, and custom vanity elevate the aesthetics, while the recessed niche, built-in shelves, and enhanced lighting provide practicality and comfort. The homeowner was thrilled with the transformation, noting how much brighter, more functional, and elegant the space now feels. They particularly loved how the layout reconfiguration made the space more open and efficient, as well as the luxurious finishes that added a high-end touch.

The Setup: After purchasing this home, the homeowners faced a unique opportunity to reimagine their kitchen and nearby spaces. Water damage from a burst pipe had left much of the home’s interior in need of repair, and while the existing kitchen was functional and in relatively good shape, it didn’t align with the family’s vision for their new home. The layout included a peninsula that wasn’t ideal, and there were some druthers with the nearby pantry. Since the space needed to be rebuilt anyway, the homeowners saw this as a chance to create a kitchen that was both highly functional for their four young children and timeless in its design. The project also included a refresh of the adjacent message center and dining room — spaces that play key roles in the family’s daily life. The goal was to create a cohesive flow between these areas, balancing modern functionality with the craftsman-inspired character of the rest of the home. Design Objectives: - Replace the outdated peninsula with a large island to maximize counter space and create new seating options. - Open up the space visually by removing soffits and rethinking the cabinetry layout. Incorporate concealed refrigeration and freezer units to provide significant storage for the family while maintaining a streamlined aesthetic. - Integrate black cabinetry into the design without making the space feel harsh or heavy. - Ensure the lighting plan balances functional task lighting with ambient accent lighting. - Avoid visual clutter in the cabinetry design while still giving a nod to the craftsman aesthetic. - Incorporate a slab backsplash as a key design feature. Design Challenges: - The outdated peninsula left dead space in the kitchen and lacked sufficient seating for the family. - The cooktop wall was cramped, with small cabinets flanking the hood, limited storage, and soffits that made the space feel closed-in. - The family needed significant refrigeration space (two refrigerators and a freezer) but wanted to avoid a cluttered look with visible stainless steel appliances. - Adding black cabinetry risked making the space feel too dark or heavy. - The original lighting plan was insufficient, particularly over the dining table where a decorative fixture proved too dim. - The family wanted shaker-style drawer fronts to match the home’s arts-and-crafts design but worried that too much shaker cabinetry might look overly busy. - Prioritizing a slab backsplash in the wish list priority planning. The Renewed Space Design Solutions: - A functional island: The peninsula was replaced with a large island that provides continuous countertop space for prepping and serving. The island also features seating for four people, creating a central hub for informal meals and activities. - Streamlined cooktop wall: The soffits were removed, and the upper cabinets on the cooktop wall were eliminated to create a more open, streamlined design. A custom oversized hood became the focal point of the wall, with the blower unit offset inside it to align with the cooktop while maintaining exterior visual symmetry. - Concealed refrigeration: Two column refrigerators and one freezer were integrated into the cabinetry, concealing them behind wood paneling that blends seamlessly with the overall design. - Warm black cabinetry: The black cabinetry was crafted from hickory with a visible grain, softening its appearance and adding warmth. The grain detail gives the cabinetry a rich, textured look that avoids feeling stark or overpowering. - Additional lighting: In the dining area, recessed can lights were added during an additional installation phase to supplement the gorgeous decorative fixture’s dim output. The new lighting plan creates a layered effect, combining functional task lighting with softer ambient lighting. - Simplified cabinetry details: Slab drawer fronts were used on the upper drawers, while five-piece shaker fronts (with slightly less prominent rail and stile pieces) were reserved for the middle and lower drawers. This approach simplified the overall look while maintaining the craftsman-inspired aesthetic. - Slab backsplash priority: The slab backsplash was prioritized by making thoughtful adjustments elsewhere, like opting not to extend cabinetry to the ceiling, which also helped visually prioritize the gorgeous slab backsplash. This decision also enhanced the kitchen’s furniture-like feel, aligning with the home’s craftsman character. - This kitchen perfectly balances practicality with timeless style. By addressing the family’s functional needs — ample seating, smart storage, and effective lighting — while incorporating thoughtful design elements like warm black cabinetry and a striking slab backsplash, Alicia created a space that works beautifully for a busy household. The result is a cohesive, inviting kitchen that honors the home’s craftsman roots and will serve the family well for years to come.

Located in the heart of Montreal, Binôme is an architectural urban densification project built by Modulor. Composed of two distinct buildings connected by an inner courtyard, this new five-unit development stands out through its unique layout, architecture, and exceptional attention to detail. The construction required rigorous planning and precise technical execution, particularly due to major excavation work and underpinning of adjacent buildings. Such interventions in a dense urban environment demand specialized expertise and tight project management at every phase of the build. Conceived as an income-generating property, the clients benefited from our strategic support to ensure the profitability, efficiency, and optimization of their investment. Modulor worked closely with the team at Appareil Architecture to bring to life a project of high architectural integrity. Binôme’s architecture draws inspiration from the area's industrial past: clean volumes, red brick, generous openings reminiscent of former workshops, and elegant brick colonnades form a refined and cohesive ensemble. The central courtyard, designed as a luminous and welcoming shared space, becomes the vibrant heart of the project. A colorful metal staircase, crafted by Atomic Soudure, connects both buildings and adds a distinctive, curated touch. As a finalist for the 2025 Ordre des architectes du Québec Awards of Excellence, Binôme stands as a model of successful urban revitalization. It illustrates how thoughtful, well-executed construction can elevate Montreal’s built environment while addressing today’s densification challenges.