Émilie Lebel practised law for three years before she began to question her career choice. At the end of a lengthy contract, she finally seized her opportunity in 2015 and took the plunge to open her own business. "Honestly, I hated being a lawyer. I had no sense of belonging to a community or of living life in line with my values. As soon as I was able, I told myself, I'm going for it."
Drawing on her own experience as a student, Émilie vowed that with her business, she would create a place that combines all the advantages of the big chains — which are never lacking in seats — and of the independent shops, where the coffee is often the best. It was with these principles in mind that Café Perko came to life in July, 2016.
The young owner fell in love with a large, light-filled location at the corner of Villeray and Chateaubriand. "The structure of the location was really perfect. I was instantly charmed by the terrazzo floor, garage doors and the light that passed through," she says. By calling upon designer Jean-Marc Juteau, who operates under the banner Cabane Huppée, Émilie revamped the space, marrying the old barn wood and industrial materials, with vintage objects crowning the surfaces here and there. Her particular affection for simplicity and functionality is evident through this décor, creating a soothing and warm atmosphere at Café Perko.
