Photography by Frédéric Bouchard and Ana Borrallo
Conceived as a restorative pause within Montréal’s sprawling new shopping and entertainment complex, this inclusive washroom demonstrates how accessibility can be embedded within an environment of genuine architectural sophistication. Rather than relying on overt wayfinding or institutional cues, the design uses spatial sequencing to intuitively accommodate a wide range of users, from families to gender-neutral visitors and those requiring full accessibility. A digital artwork by Spanish artist Cristina Mejías establishes a threshold of aquatic projections and ambient sound, softening the transition from mall concourse to contemplative interior. Inside, a sculptural monolithic sink island anchors the space beneath mirrored ceilings and restrained lighting, while rounded custom tilework introduces tactile warmth and continuity. The result rejects the transactional logic of the conventional retail restroom in favour of something more atmospheric and humane.
As appeared in the July/August 2026 Best of Canada Awards issue of Canadian Interiors magazine.
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