MSO Home + Art Studio by Studio Jean Verville Architects

As they say in the theatre biz “All the world’s a stage”, so this living space and art studio in Montreal takes the phrase to a whole new level as the worlds of architecture and theatre collide. Designed by architect Jean Verville for actors and creators Sophie Cadieux and Mani Soleymanlou, this dramatic interior is a deeply personal collaboration that responds to the everyday needs of family life, while also subtracting them at times in order to create a work environment that strengthens concentration and creativity.

This spirit of collaboration can be seen in the final photos – combining their talents, the architects and their clients have engaged in an improvised and unpredictable theatrical work within the home with whimsical staging by Jean Verville. Digital manipulation produces images featuring creature-allegories that raise questions about the illusory banality of habitability.

Immersing themselves in the creative universe of the family, their personalities and particular needs, Jean Verville Architects formed a narrative around this rich tapestry. Consisting of a complete volumetric reconfiguration, the outcome is an artistic creation as well as a living space adapted to the daily reality of the two artists and their son.

Studio Jean Verville Architects, MSO Art Studio + Home, Photo Felix Michaud | Yellowtrace

While ensuring minimal alterations to the existing building, the proposal engages in an entire spatial reorganisation. The central space is pierced by an openwork steel structure, extending over twelve meters in height, blowing the original hierarchy of residential building design out of the water. Functions of various spaces are concealed through this vertical deployment in a succession of ordered volumes while interspersed by ten scenic pauses.

Ten versatile multifunctional platforms gradually unfold over the three floors as the core of the space is selectively subtracted to accommodate the new vertical progression. Breathing vitality into the existing space, Jean Verville Architects take advantage of decompartmentalisation to engage unusual interactions and new creative perspectives for the coexistence of domestic and professional activities.

A labyrinth of stages and raised platforms showcase the versatility of the space – sometimes they offer a small scene, other times a seat – minimising the need for furniture. While the monochrome greige tones of the perforated steel surfaces and low walls unite the monolithic entity, drawing fluid limits that privatise space.

While the intricate metal structure consolidates the structural integrity of the project it is also capped with a skylight, diffusing natural light all through the house. Graphic line and geometric shadows dance on the monochromatic canvas, as Cadeux says “At every moment we discover something new, a new cut, a new line. It’s a tremendous gift.”

Beautifully dynamic, this project transgresses the limits of three-dimensional forms while meeting the families requirements for functional adaptability.