Story


Our story began in 2015 with architect and founder Cece's need for a functional yet elegant way to transport large-format drawings. Like many architects and designers, she often carried odd-shaped papers and objects that never fit in traditional bags. Cece decided to craft a solution for herself. Not knowing how to sew, she used paper, elastic, and a wooden dowel to create a prototype for a bag that could carry Tabloid/A3 paper without forming creases or folds. Her pared-down solution, Enveloppe, evolved into a collection of practical accessories that reflect a quiet ingenuity through size, structure, and versatility. Each design is tailored to meet the needs of different creative types: architects, designers, artists, photographers, writers, and more.

 


Process 


DESIGN.
Guided by architectural roots, our designs seek a harmonious balance between strength, utility, and beauty. Each YUL: piece aims to showcase a basic, functional beauty that achieves more with less—a theme that's consistent throughout the collection. Long live Vitruvius' principles: firmitas (strength), utilitas (function), and venustas (beauty). 

MATERIALS. Our carryalls are constructed using a thick 3mm drum-dyed vegetable tanned pebbled leather combined with our signature oak wood and bungee cord closure. All materials are hand-selected from local suppliers, allowing us to ensure the highest quality while supporting Montreal’s small but mighty manufacturing industry.     


CRAFT. In today’s overly-industrialized fast-fashion world, we’ve opted to slow down and work exclusively with local master leather craftsmen who bring over 35 years of experience to our atelier. Each hide is meticulously planned and cut to reduce leather waste and every stitch is carefully considered to offer the highest level of construction.

PRINCIPLES. Products are offered in small quantities or made to order. We don’t overproduce and don’t go on sale. We believe in offering you fair pricing every day. Pieces are shipped from our family-run atelier in Montréal.

 

Questions? See our FAQ page
General inquiries: info@theatelieryul.com 
Press inquiries: press@theatelieryul.com