This unique residential project reflects an ambitious process to modernize a significant Canadian heritage residence and landscape that was subject to strict preservation guidelines, achieving LEED Gold through the process.

The City of Westmount is an affluent community on the island of Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The 1.9 acre, steeply sloped Estate is sited within the existing Westmount heritage community on Mount Royal, facing south east, with views of the St. Lawrence River, Montreal and beyond. The Estate Residence, built in 1906 for a Montreal businessman, is architecturally significant for the quality of its eclectic and simplified “Chateau” style of design.

The house was conceived as a country estate in the heart of a growing city. A rough fieldstone wall encircled the property and mature oak trees were preserved throughout. The Residence is a representative example of the work of renowned 19th Century Montreal architectural firm, Findlay and McGregor. The Estate is recognized by the City of Westmount as a ‘Category 1’ (exceptional) structure, and is thus governed by strict requirements for the protection of its character and defining elements, which included features of the landscape.