Header: Maxime Brouillet
Situated in the Laurentian countryside, “Between Lake and Forest” is a striking contemporary residence designed to offer its owners an escape from the urban bustle. Perched atop a rocky outcrop in Sainte-Anne-des-Lacs, Quebec, this architectural marvel overlooks the serene Lac Cupidon, blending with its natural surroundings. Designed by the LOCUS architecture + design architectural studio, the home’s bold design harmonizes with the region’s renowned beauty, known for its lush forests, vibrant fall colors, and winter ski resorts.
Balance between modern architecture and nature
Positioned at the highest point of a densely wooded four-acre site, approximately 65 kilometers north of Montreal, the 3,600-square-foot single-family home epitomizes the balance between modern architecture and nature. The residence features a dark upper volume resting on an exposed concrete plinth, punctuated by a dramatic entrance portal, expansive window openings, and two fully glazed projections, a living room and a library that extend toward the lake and trees.
The design eliminates structural elements on the lakeside perimeter, creating an ethereal lightness and an uninterrupted connection with the natural environment. The living room’s floor-to-ceiling windows extend beyond the ceiling and below the floor, devoid of vertical frames or mullions, erasing the boundary between indoors and outdoors.
Thoughtful layout and functionality
The house is bisected longitudinally by the entrance portal and an interior staircase, dividing the home into distinct living and sleeping areas. This layout also highlights the entrance, where visitors ascend a large concrete staircase to a main-floor landing featuring a ten-foot-wide by ten-foot-high glass opening. This strategic design choice provides a breathtaking view of the lake upon arrival, setting the tone for the serene ambiance within.
Upon entering, residents are immersed in a forest canopy experience, thanks to fully glazed living areas that span floor to ceiling. Clad in light pine, the ceiling rises ten feet high, adding warmth and a sense of openness. An oversized hallway connects these living spaces to the main staircase, three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a powder room, and a library that cantilevers into the treetops, inviting natural light and midday sun.
Elevated details and amenities
The home’s lower level is accessed via an open-riser staircase with a glass guardrail, allowing natural light to permeate the double-height portal. This space provides uninterrupted lake views, transforming even the act of movement within the home into an elevated experience. The basement houses a guest bedroom and bathroom, a family room with a large fireplace, and access to an outdoor spa, a garage, and service areas.
Respect for the environment
During the planning and construction phases, the design team prioritized preserving the site’s natural features, including wetlands and wildlife paths. Integrating the home into the site’s unique topography and forested density presented challenges that were thoughtfully addressed to maintain harmony with the landscape.
Project info
Project Name: Between Lake and Forest
Location: Sainte-Anne-des-Lacs, Québec, Canada
Project Lead: Thomas Evans, OAQ and Yousef Farasat, OAQ RAIC
Design Team: Thomas Evans, Yousef Farasat, Mohammad Farasat, Michelle Lin, Christopher Malouf
Completion Date: 2024
Architecture: LOCUS architecture + design
Structure: Alain Mousseau, Calculatec Inc.
Mechanical-Electrical Engineer: Jean St-Pierre, JSTP Experts-Conseils
Landscape Architects: HETA
General Contractor: Construction SYMAT
Photo Credits: Maxime Brouillet, Thomas Evans, Yousef Farasat, Christopher Malouf
Source: v2com newswire
