Dezeen Magazine

Plant-filled beauty boutique in Montreal

MRDK creates a "journey through nature" at Attitude boutique in Montreal

Blocks of granite among planted beds are used to display plastic-free beauty products at this Montreal store, designed by local architecture firm MRDK.

MRDK, also known as Ménard Dworkind, designed the interiors of the Attitude boutique to reflect the sustainable focus of the cosmetics for sale.

Planted beds surrounded by raised ceramic floor
Planted beds are surrounded by a raised ceramic floor at the Attitude store

"From the moment you step inside, the design of the space reflects their commitment to sustainability and a connection to nature," said the studio.

Located on Saint Denis Street in the Plateau Mont-Royal neighbourhood, the 1,000-square-foot (93-square-metre) shop is laid out to evoke a "journey through nature" according to MRDK.

Sinks carved out of a granite block
A large granite block at the centre has two sinks carved into its top

Planted beds in the store window and around the space overspill with greenery, and a raised ceramic floor creates the impression of traversing a boardwalk between them.

"This subtle elevation change immediately transports you into a new space, a forest floor full of life and colour," MRDK said.

Oak shelves display products
The brand's plastic-free beauty products are display on oak shelves that emerge from the greenery

Chunks of granite are used as pedestals for displaying products in the window, while a much larger block in the centre has a pair of sinks carved into its flat top.

"The boulder-like shape and texture of the island suggest a natural element, as if it has been carved by the forces of nature over time," said MRDK.

"This centerpiece perfectly complements the natural theme of the space, giving customers the sense of being in a nature surrounded by rock formations."

The majority of Attitude's products are presented on white oak shelves that emerge from the plant beds on both sides of the store.

Granite plinth surrounded by plants
The raised floor is designed to create a boardwalk between the planted beds

Suspended on white poles and backed by fritted glass, these shelves match the rectangular cashier's desk at the back, into which the brand's name is hewn.

There's also a refill station that customers can use to replenish the aluminium bottles, further promoting sustainability.

Attitude storefront on Saint Denis Street
Smaller blocks of granite are used as plinths to showcase the products in the storefront

MRDK was founded by partners Guillaume Ménard and David Dworkind in 2010, and has completed a wide variety of projects in and around Montreal.

These include a 1970s-themes pizza restaurant, a colossal Chinese brasserie and a wine bar that takes cues from bottle labels, as well as a renovated 1980s home and a cedar-clad hideaway.

The photography is by David Dworkind.


Project credits:

Architecture: MRDK
Team: David Dworkind, Benjamin Lavoie Laroche
Contractor: Groupe STLC

More images and plans

Menard Dworkin Attitude Boutique
Menard Dworkin Attitude Boutique
Menard Dworkin Attitude Boutique
Menard Dworkin Attitude Boutique
Menard Dworkin Attitude Boutique
Menard Dworkin Attitude Boutique
Menard Dworkin Attitude Boutique
Menard Dworkin Attitude Boutique
Menard Dworkin Attitude Boutique
Menard Dworkin Attitude Boutique