6 Belair: A masterclass in quality design and construction

"The great power of architecture is in its ability to reimagine a physical space and leave an enduring imprint on the world around it."

Today, when we think of residential architecture, legacy and permanence aren’t usually at the forefront of our minds. Instead, we think of design, trend, and cost. Homes that are designed and built with permanence in mind have become increasingly rare. And yet, that’s exactly the philosophy behind the magnificent residence at 6 Rue Belair in Montreal’s scenic Île-Bizard

Constructed in 2003, the original homeowner intended to build something grand. In execution, however, the home lacked refinement and vision resulting in an interior design concept that worked counterintuitively to the architecture. Shortly after finishing construction, the original homeowner moved abroad and the property was put up for rent and was eventually acquired by the current owner, a seasoned contractor experienced in home restoration, in 2016. Enamoured by the grandeur and elegance of the architecture and its location in one of the most tranquil and revered enclaves of Île Bizard, he saw enormous untapped potential.

Work began on the exterior by dismantling the existing crenellated turret and replacing it with a stunning circular roof with a pointed apex. In this process, particular attention was paid to protecting and preserving the stunning stone that covers the entirety of the exterior: Pierre de Champlain, a type of black limestone used in the construction of the Lachine Canal. Substantial and robust, the stone lends the home the appearance and grandeur of a European Chateau. It’s a home that looks like it has occupied the plot overlooking the scenic Lake of Two Mountains for decades while still embodying a contemporary feel.

Inside, however, is where the bulk of the transformation took place. Working with local interior designer Susan Macko, the object was to create a space that reflected luxury and elegance while maintaining the warmth and intimacy of a family home. The problem was, however, that in its current state — that was next to impossible. An obsessive over detail, quality, and craftsmanship the current homeowner knew there was only one possible way forward — strip the whole place down to the studs and start anew. This began the 5 year-long process of careful renovation, restoration and design that would lead to the creation of one of the region's most exceptional properties. 

Custom is the operative word at 6 Belair. From the imported Italian doors, with their invisible hinges, to the tilting windows, pharmaceutical-grade water-filtration system, and the integrated LED lighting in the stairwell — nothing is standard and everything has been designed to marry beauty with functionality. It’s a philosophy that not only makes for a beautiful home but one that is exceptionally liveable. Take the spiral staircase which connects the great room to the home’s second level, for example. Having been completely redesigned, the staircase was reconfigured to match the geometry of the turret’s tower and act as an architectural flourish that functionally integrated all three levels of the home. To achieve this, the homeowner had to create a unique s-shaped support column that would yield the staircases’ sleek and seamless effect. More than that, the forged-iron support railing was designed to match the exterior railings and the fine brass detailing is a reference to the brass light fixtures and hardware that appear throughout the home. A form of highly intentional design, it’s these elements of continuity that best illustrate the homeowner’s meticulous attention to detail.

The custom features of the home aren’t only limited to the refinement of the small details, however — there are some truly lavish features as well. In what used to be a side-by-side two-car garage the homeowner has created a state-of-the-art cinema room complete with imported, theatre-grade seating, integrated LED lighting, and automatic black-out shades. Around the way, there is a beautiful sunken living room that is centered around one of four exceptional gas fireplaces. The flooring throughout the home is a mixture of wood and imported Italian tiles under which a complex heating system has been installed to allow most of the rooms to maintain adjustable and independent climates. The bespoke kitchen includes a host of integrated appliances, a 300-hundred-bottle wine cellar, and custom cabinetry designed for durability and ease of maintenance without compromising an ounce of the home’s elegant aesthetic. 

On the second level, there are three bedrooms, each with distinct architectural features. The secondary bedrooms share a beautifully designed bathroom but it’s the primary suite that steals the show. Containing a beautiful gas fireplace, a stunning en-suite bathroom and French doors which open onto a balcony overlooking the manicured back garden and the newly redesigned inground pool, it’s the definition of a peaceful retreat within the home. The two walk-in closets, however, are the most exceptional feature of the suite. The first, which is slightly more petite, is a traditional yet spacious walk-in closet whereas the other can only be 

described as a lavish dressing room. With ample built-in storage for even the most robust wardrobes, it includes its own balcony complete with garden views. Returning to the second-floor hallway is one of the home’s most interesting hidden features. Ascending a hidden staircase hidden behind a trap door which descends from the ceiling, you arrive at the rooftop terrace which offers unobstructed views over the charming neighbourhood and out onto the waterfront.

Downstairs, the amenities only continue. Endlessly spacious, the basement is home to an integrated security suite where one can review the home’s 12 exterior cameras, a climate-controlled wine cellar capable of holding an additional 700 bottles, and an incredibly organized mechanical room from which the home’s major functions are all controlled. In the main living space, there is another gas fireplace, an integrated entertainment unit and a multi-functional space with fittings to accommodate a wet bar or cigar lounge.

A masterclass in quality design and construction, 6 Belair is the realization of great potential and an unwavering dedication to creating a home that will stand the test of time. The epitome of timeless elegance yet entirely modernized it is a residence imbued with status but which exudes the comfort, warmth, and intimacy of a family home. It’s not a home built only to impress (although it unquestionably does) it’s a home designed to support, enhance, and celebrate the joys of everyday life.