Several years back, an older lady approached Gary Conrath of Indesign with an unusual request. The three-storey building she was living in was no longer suitable, and she wanted a new home, but not some boring old bungalow. No, what she wanted was an ultra-modern house, although it did have to take into account the possibility that, over time, her mobility could become restricted.

A suitable plot lot was then purchased in Verdun, Monreal – an historic neighbourhood with links back to France. Crucially, the location meant owning a car was not necessary, as there was easy access to the bus networks and the subway station was only a short walk away.

The design took cues from the solid geometry of the surrounding buildings and the suspended moulded-glass elements on the front facade reference the ice-cutters that were a vital part of the local economy during the 19th century.

Rather than occupying the full width of the site, the architect opted for a footprint that allowed for an open passageway on one side, where the main entrance was located. Not only did this approach provide some privacy for the entrance area, it also distinguished the building from the more densely built, neighbouring homes.

In case wheelchair access was required at some point, all the surfaces were kept at the same level – the pavement, the parking space and the main entrance.

The internal spaces were carefully planned to ensure they could adapt to the client’s changing needs. Most of the essential living spaces were located on the ground floor – including the living room and kitchen and the master bedroom and bathroom.

The first floor features a music room, study, artist’s studio and secondary bathroom and can be easily turned into independent accommodation for a live-in carer. In an interesting coincidence, when the area was first developed in the 30s, many of the houses were also designed so the floors could be separated, with the idea that the owners could rent out the upper floors if times got tough!

In order to avoid the owner feeling ‘boxed-in’ if they became homebound, the architect kept the spaces as open as possible, That meant minimising partition walls, maximising the windows and linking the floors with a huge expanse of glass. It means almost every room has dynamic views of both the internal and external spaces.

And, out the back, there’s a fantastic swimming pool. Not only does it add a touch of luxury, swimming is also one of the more gentle forms of exercise and is perfect for those who are not especially mobile.

So, who says old age has to be boring? Sometimes, it can be inspiring.

Architects: Indesign inc. http://www.indesigninc.com

Photography: Marc Cramer

With thanks to www.v2com-newswire.com for providing the materials for the article.