jean maxime labrecque: inhabitable sculpture

‘inhabitable sculpture’ by jean-maxime labrecque, montreal, canada all images courtesy of jean-maxime labrecque

montreal-based architect jean-maxime labrecque has transformed an early 20th century space into ‘inhabitable sculpture’, an apartment in montreal, canada. the concrete floors, walls and ceiling of the industrial building have been maintained and complimented with a minimalist sculptural element clad with aluminum. the large custom piece divides the condo’s floor area while containing all components for the dwelling’s functions. the primary programmatic elements are found within a great room, including the kitchen, dining area, living room and bedroom.

aerial view of the living area, bedroom + kitchen

the metallic rectangular volumes either create or conceal the bed, walk-in closet, bookshelf, couch, stools, counter, kitchen and storage modules. a series of sliding doors may be pulled to reveal an ‘arches corridor’, a temporary and enclosed linear room containing the bedroom’s closet within the larger spacious room. the other half of the residence contains a corridor to the bathroom. the glass block and black decor in conjunction with a mirrored wall enlarges its small size.

living area + couch

concealed stool

storage

kitchen

dining surface

kitchen cabinets are accessible from two sides

living area

view from bedroom towards kitchen

sliding panels open to reveal walk-in closet

bed

bed with closets closed

when all sliding doors are pulled open, a linear walk-in closet is formed

(left) hallway to bathroom (right) corridor to bathroom

(left) original ‘vault’ door to bathroom (right) view towards kitchen

bathroom

black bathroom