Canadian interior design studio Perron has breathed new life into a 1915 heritage building in Québec City’s Montcalm arts district. The redesigned three-storey structure now serves as Perron’s studio, showroom, and the home of founder Nathalie Perron, seamlessly blending commercial and residential spaces.
Named Maison Perron, the building has undergone a striking transformation, maintaining its historic charm while showcasing Perron’s signature modern style. The multifunctional interior is described by the studio as “a well-balanced mix of a commercial space and cozy home environment.”
Preserving History, Adding Modern Flair
Originally a general store, butcher shop, and later a clothing and accounting office, the building’s original features were revealed during renovations. “When we purchased the building, we had no idea of the treasures that lay underneath,” said Perron’s artistic director, Sarah Eve Hébert. “Once we had stripped the entire space down, we discovered pleasant surprises in terms of colors and textures that fit quite naturally with our style, but also some contrasts between old and new that aligned in a balanced presentation,” she added.
The building’s original dimensions were preserved, but modern updates—such as new light-blue window trims—make the structure more inviting. A window display names all team members, creating a connection with the local community.
A Multifunctional Interior
The ground floor houses a boutique styled as a cozy living room, showcasing Perron’s furniture and lighting designs. A reception area with a powder-blue table encourages collaboration, while an adjacent space highlights the studio’s portfolio. The boutique leads into offices and meeting rooms through an archway that echoes the original brick wall arches uncovered during the renovation.
In the basement, additional offices and a staff kitchen retain the heritage-inspired style, with thin brick and stone accents complementing the structure’s purple-painted stone foundation.
Residential Meets Showcase
Above the studio, two residential apartments accommodate Nathalie Perron and her sister Gisele, who manages the boutique. These spaces double as living showrooms, styled with the same curated products available downstairs. Nathalie’s apartment features exposed brick walls painted for a refined finish, along with a divided kitchen and terrace access. The bathroom is a visual highlight, with a raised bathtub framed by yellow tiles.
According to Hébert, the redesign reflects Perron’s creative ethos: “The Perron culture and work environment is something that we were only able to express verbally to our clients in the past. We are now able to display our work in progress, including meetings, object placements and the entire Perron team process.”
A Community and Design Hub
Maison Perron stands as a tribute to the fusion of heritage and innovation, offering a glimpse into the design studio’s vibrant creativity. Its integration of professional and personal spaces establishes it as both a community hub and a design showcase.