T B A transforms studio into veterinary hospital & residences in montréal

multidisciplinary firm T B A (thomas balaban architecte) has transformed a small abandoned photo studio into a veterinary hospital with four residential units on top. located in montréal‘s mile end neighborhood, hôpital vétérinaire du parc combines existing raw surfaces, generous glazed partitions, and utilitarian materials that reflect the aesthetics of its surroundings.

all images by adrien williams/T B A

T B A has renovated the dilapidated storefront space and dark basement according to the specific needs of the veterinary clinic, using concrete wainscoting and ceramic tiles to protect the lower part of the walls from wear and tear. the spacious reception allows animals and owners to circulate freely, while technical spaces are efficiently organized around a central circulation spine. custom furniture in corian is combined with milky polycarbonate ceiling panels that hide a complex mechanical system, revealing only modest graphic lighting.

besides renovating the original two-story structure, the montréal-based studio added another two floors in the form of a delicate extension that inserts itself into the existing steel frame, using the building perimeter as a guideline for the new form. integral to the new design is a central courtyard that funnels natural light into the center of the building and provides efficient access and ventilation for all residential units. the front residence, belonging to the veterinarian, gives onto a large hidden rooftop terrace overlooking the city’s mount royal.

on its exterior, the building is restrained and monochromatic, with its façade clad in a grid of local limestone quarried 50 km away. subtle aluminum details surround windows and doors and finely perforated guardrails fade into the background, while fully glazed balconies are punched into the façade giving tenants added privacy while streamlining the building’s form.