How Color and Texture Transformed a Montreal Apartment
A new-build space warmed by butter yellow plaster and animal-inspired decor.
1From Blank Canvas to Personal Sanctuary
Richard and Sophie's 1,200 sq ft apartment on the 27th floor of a Montreal luxury residence had all amenities - gym, spa, rooftop pool. Yet its concrete columns and white walls created a cold, impersonal atmosphere. Hiring Luke Havekes Design, they transformed this 'blank canvas' into a warm, personalized space. The redesign proves new builds can achieve character without sacrificing modern comforts.
2Venetian Plaster's Alchemy
Havekes' most radical move was abandoning white throughout the unit. Cold concrete ceilings were enveloped in butter yellow Venetian plaster - a technique adding rich depth. 'Concrete felt sterile, plaster created an embracing atmosphere,' explains the designer. Three warm hues now wrap the space like a painting, eliminating typical new-build anonymity through chromatic storytelling.
3Zebras, Elephants and Personality
The equestrian wedding gift painting, hallway zebra bench, and lion-elephant sculpture trio inject playful character. Cheetah-print pillows and duck-motif metallic screens continue the animal theme. These curated pieces turn the apartment into a personal art collection, avoiding gallery-like sterility. Each item tells a story - like the lamp from Richard's father's office - creating emotional layers.
4Color Psychology in Action
Havekes recounts how the main room's yellow tones initially shocked the owners after a 12-hour flight, but grew on them. The dining room's red-yellow rug and nursery's tangerine palette manipulate spatial perception through bold hues. As Italian writer Calvino said, 'Lightness is never superficial.' This project embodies that philosophy through its joyful color treatment.
5Intergenerational Design Dialogue
Mid-project, the couple learned they were expecting. The planned office became a bright orange nursery without sacrificing design integrity. The sofa lamp (from Richard's father), mid-century tapestry and wedding gift painting create cross-generational aesthetic conversations. 'Contemporary spaces needn't be austere,' Havekes notes, proving elegance and warmth aren't mutually exclusive.
6Harmony with Montreal's Harbor
The 27th-floor apartment commands views of the historic harbor. Natural light from three directions dances with warm tones. Avoiding new-build anonymity, the design merges urban luxury with personality. Dark stone kitchen island and contrasting dining rug add spatial depth, while Venetian plaster reflects changing light throughout the day.
7Design Philosophy: Emotional Connection
Havekes embraces the Italian concept of 'leggerezza' (lightness). Venetian plaster, animal motifs and family heirlooms add emotional layers. 'Color can be sophisticated,' asserts the designer, redefining contemporary luxury. This project demonstrates how personality can shine in new developments through intentional material and color choices.
8From Nursery to Design Manifesto
The burnt orange/black/green nursery avoids clichés while summarizing Havekes' approach: Color is the ultimate character-builder. This Montreal apartment stands as a manifesto for warmth in new constructions. Published in Architectural Digest Italy, the project resonates globally as a case study in transforming sterile spaces into emotionally rich homes through fearless design choices.
Original article: Architectural Digest — Montreal'de Renk ve Dokunun Dönüştürücü Gücü