1418, avenue des Pins Ouest

La Maison Ernest-Cormier – Art deco example

Ernest Cormier, born in Montreal in 1885, was a renowned Canadian architect and a key figure in introducing the Art Deco style to Canadian architecture. Considered one of the most influential architects of the 20th century in Canada, his impressive body of work spans residential, educational, and religious buildings. He lived here for 45 years.

Built between 1930 and 1931 by architect Ernest Cormier for his personal use, the house located at 1418 Avenue des Pins West in Montreal is an iconic example of the Art Deco style.

The Ernest Cormier House is located in the prestigious Golden Square Mile area of Montreal, at the foot of Mount Royal. This neighborhood, once home to Montreal’s English-speaking elite from the late 19th to the early 20th century, is renowned for its exceptional architectural heritage and its proximity to downtown, as well as to cultural and academic institutions.

Architecture

The house is a remarkable example of Art Deco architecture—at once understated, geometric, and refined. With its clean lines and sharp angles, the structure appears to have only one floor from the street, while actually extending to four levels at the back due to the steep slope of the land.

An intriguing bas-relief sculpture placed above the entrance depicts a muse holding the tower of the Université de Montréal, highlighting Cormier’s connection to that other major work he designed.

Famous Occupants

This building is, in fact, the architect’s first prestigious work—hence its current name. The residence has also been home to other notable figures:

• Ernest Cormier (1930–1975): Architect and original occupant.
• Denis Robert (1975–1980): Montreal-based designer.
• Pierre Elliott Trudeau (1980–2000): Former Prime Minister of Canada, who made several modifications to the property (including a pool and an underground corridor).

Heritage Recognition

The Ernest Cormier House is recognized for its significant heritage value. It was designated a heritage building in 1974, and a protective zone has surrounded the property since 1975. It has also been granted National Historic Site status, notably for the exceptional quality of its architecture and its importance in the history of modern architecture in Quebec. Even the furniture designed by Cormier has been classified as works of art, so well are they integrated into the overall design of the house.

Other Notable Works by Ernest Cormier

• Supreme Court of Canada (Ottawa)
• Former Montreal Courthouse
• Roger-Gaudry Pavilion at the Université de Montréal

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