Demystifying interior design with Guillaume Ménard

For Guillaume Ménard, co-owner and designer at the Montreal studio MRDK (Ménard Dworkind), interior design is a deeply personal, artistic act. We know this because his own home reflects his design philosophy and approach, one which balances aesthetics, functionality, and history to create something that sings.

And we all want that with our space, don’t we? So, by listening to how this interior designer’s process starts and takes shape, even a Montrealer looking to make their 2 ½ apartment feel like home can learn a thing or two.

Where the process for interior design starts

Two things set Guillaume’s home in Pointe-Saint-Charles apart from the rest: Its Anglo-Saxon architecture from the late 19th century when the construction of the Lachine Canal was taking place by Irish labourers, and what he’s done to make its extensively renovated space feel like somewhere he and his family belongs.

Guillaume says the questions he asked himself in making it feel like home form the foundation that anyone looking to redefine a space can begin with.

Photograph: Adriana Nguyen-Luu / @adriana.luu

"Let your space tell your story.”

“My process is actually very structured. I approach it the same way I would for a client, except the client is me and my family. I ask the same questions: How will we live in this space? What do we need? How much kitchen storage is necessary? Do we need a large island to gather people around? And of course, there’s always the question of budget—I didn’t have an unlimited budget for this house,” he says.

“The size of the house also played a role. It’s not huge, so ultimately, we had to make sure every room served its purpose and fit our way of living.”

Texture, contrasts, and the connections they create

As for which elements people can start with, Guillaume says texture plays a vital role in his designs. From wood and stone to carefully chosen textiles, he sees materiality as a way to add depth.

“Budget constraints meant some compromises, but I always aim to incorporate tactile materials. Even small details, like a textured curtain or a vintage lamp, can make a big difference,” he says.

When it comes to furniture and accessories, Guillaume’s a strong believer in mixing vintage and modern pieces in the same space. They create a connection that goes both ways, he says, where vintage touches can improve a modern space, and vice versa.

“New elements make you feel like you’re in the moment, but vintage pieces remind you of where you’ve been.”

“A contemporary kitchen paired with a mid-century Danish table or vintage flower pots creates a dialogue between eras,” he says, emphasizing how the present can be grounded with nostalgia. “New elements make you feel like you’re in the moment, but vintage pieces remind you of where you’ve been.”

“If budget constraints limit what you can do architecturally, focus on objects like furniture, rugs, lights—a mix of vintage and modern pieces can create the great dialogue I’m talking about. A piece of old wood next to a MacBook can create a contrast that’s striking. Let your space tell your story.”

“I think it’s because new elements make you feel like you’re in the present, or even a bit ahead of your time, while vintage pieces ground you,” he adds. “They remind you that you’re still on Earth, surrounded by history and familiarity. It’s that balance between innovation and nostalgia that I find comforting.”

Lighting, colour, and subtle additions

“Lighting is essential,” Guillaume explains.

“During the day, I prefer to rely on overhead lighting. At night, I turn those off and rely on lamps, keeping the light low. It creates a cozy atmosphere and feels more natural—it mimics how we’re used to receiving light during the day from above, like the sun, and at night from lower sources, like a fire. This approach not only makes the space feel calming, but also prepares you for sleep.”

“Don’t be afraid to buy multiple lamps—floor lamps, table lamps, even small ones that you can place on the floor. You might not even see them, but their subtle glow, like behind a couch, can go a long way in enhancing the mood of a room.”

“My advice is to take your time and focus on harmony. Slow design always works better. Avoid overdecorating, as it can make a space feel overwhelming.”

As for colour? “I use colour sparingly. Take the rug under the dining table, for example. Its tones match the table but are slightly darker, almost like a shadow. It’s practical too—a lighter rug wouldn’t work as well in this space. For pops of colour, I prefer to bring them in through objects. Think of them as the finishing touches that tie everything together.”

Among all this advice, Guillaume still maintains that it’s the most subtle of adjustments that can transform the look and feel of space.

“Plants are another big one—they’re more than decoration. They bring life into the space, literally. I work at the dining table facing a window, and there’s a plant I tend to every day. Watching it grow is oddly rewarding,” he says.

“They’re living things, and they bring a certain energy to a room that objects can’t replicate. You can form a relationship with a plant, which adds another layer of connection to the space.”

“Surround yourself with objects that resonate with you, but don’t try to do everything at once—pace yourself. Less is often more.”

Practical advice for aspiring interior designers

Guillaume stresses the importance of education and observation. “Read as much as you can, observe your surroundings, and practice. There are no universal rules to follow; design is filtered through your personal experiences and what you’ve learned over time,” he says.

As much as Guillaume encourages creativity that is unique to who’s designing how a space should look and feel, he also advises restraint, as he has seen and experienced what overdecorating can do to a space.

“Surround yourself with objects that resonate with you, but don’t try to do everything at once—pace yourself. Less is often more,” he adds.

“Sometimes people get carried away and throw too many styles or elements into one space. It’s as if they think it’s their one chance to design something, and they want to include everything they’ve ever loved.”

“My advice is to take your time and focus on harmony. Slow design always works better. Avoid overdecorating, as it can make a space feel overwhelming.”

Explore how everyday elements like rugs from the local Montreal company ECARPETGALLERY can bring your space to life.