Three-level ipe decks in Rosemont
Ipe in three tiers
Rosemont–La Petite-Patrie · 2026 · Ipe
A 2000s-era building in Rosemont. The original metal terrace had seen better days: visible corrosion, uncomfortable surface, cold atmosphere. The new owner wanted something different. Something durable, pleasant to live with, and befitting a well-maintained building. He chose ipe.
Why Ipe
Ipe is one of the densest and most resistant exotic woods on the market. It doesn't rot, doesn't warp, and withstands Montreal winters without intensive treatment. Under bare feet, it's soft and warm — nothing like metal or composite.
It's also a wood that absorbs sound. An ipe deck is quiet. No resonance, no soundbox effect like with an aluminum structure. You hear the city, not the deck.
The flip side: ipe is demanding to work with. Its hardness quickly wears out blades and requires specialized tools. It's a wood that doesn't forgive approximations — which also makes it a good indicator of the care taken in execution.
The De Breuck Approach
The client already had an idea of the plan. We started from there. Rather than imposing a design, we validated their vision, adjusted the technical details, and suggested integrating planter boxes to green the space without cluttering the usable surface.
The objective was clear: for this space to become truly usable — for working outdoors, entertaining, or simply enjoying a quiet corner in the city.
The Project
Rosemont is a dense urban area. Limited access, close neighbors, logistics to manage on three levels: ground floor, first, and second floor. This type of project requires rigorous organization and good coordination with residents. Each terrace had to function independently, while still fitting into an overall continuity.
Quality is not just about the visible laying of the planks: it also depends on preparation, structure, wood ventilation, water management, and the precision of cuts.
Result
A series of sober, solid, and visually coherent terraces, designed for daily use as well as for durability. The client now has outdoor spaces that they truly use — quiet, comfortable, and built to last.