A Lovingly Restored Art Deco Home That Would Make Gatsby Swoon

Built in 1935, the residence was designed by renowned Montreal architect René Rodolphe Tourville. He collaborated with artist Pancrazio Balgaro on the home’s articulated exterior brick, front entrance, ornate iron work, columns and pylons.

In 1925, Tourville attended the famous International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts in Paris. It was here where the Art Deco style was first exhibited, and for many architects, it was the first time they experienced this particular type of design.

Art Deco is a movement in decorative arts and architecture that originated in the 1920s and later developed into a coveted style in western Europe and North America during the 1930s. Its name was derived from the Paris arts exhibition held in 1925, where the style was first exhibited.

The style is influenced by the Cubist movement and is about making a grand statement. Art Deco is distinguished by dramatic and luxurious interior design. Homes of this style tend to feature generous hits of gold, mirrored and wood elements as well as bold geometric shapes and glass tiles.

The Grassi House has had only three owners since it was built in 1935. Sabino Grassi bought the home for his wife Clara as a surprise birthday present in 1994.

When the Grassis purchased the home, it had been previously renovated in an 80s design style. In order to restore the original Art Deco features, the couple painstakingly researched and spent close to $1.8 million on the transformation.

The grand space’s original Art Deco detailing was lovingly restored. The extravagant iron staircase, mouldings, front and back doors, spectacular entrance column and recessed ceiling are all original features. This intricate railing was inspired by a hotel’s handrail in France.

The original home wasn’t equipped for contemporary living and had an unsuitable kitchen and sleeping space. In the renovation, a grand addition was built to accommodate modern needs, and ensured details of the Art Deco style were incorporated into the design. The spacious kitchen, master bedroom and ensuite were all added onto the home.

After countless hours of research, overcoming differences with city council and overseeing the meticulous renovation, the Grassis succeeded in keeping all the beautiful exterior and interior Art Deco detailing, as seen in the home’s lavish (and serene!) ensuite.

The now perfectly preserved Art Deco property has been listed as an official heritage site by Montreal Council.

Want more? Tour this historic home and more inspiring spaces with design star Tommy Smythe in our Great Canadian Homes documentary.