Lac Leon
Lakehouse
1. IDEA
Located on an idyllic lake setting, north of Montreal, in the province of Quebec, the vision for the chalet was for it to dissolve into the surrounding forest. The temperate deciduous forest inspired the cladding: vertical, irregular slats of Eastern Hemlock (Tsuga Canadensis L.). This wood darkens as it ages naturally. When viewed from the access road, the house would appear disguised as part of the forest.
2. PROCESS
Located in a harsh winter climate, the biggest technical challenge was to create an efficient yet comfortable home, while maintaining the existing orientation and footprint. A highly insulated envelope was therefore critical, and high performance fenestration was limited, largely, to the East façade.
3. SOLUTION
The house is a sunrise house, opening up to the magnificent view of the lake as the sun is rising. The 120 m2 interior extends onto a wood deck suspended over the garden. The house frames the lake from every room taking in the constantly changing views, be it due to the light, time of day or season. This was to be a simple, unassuming house, one that could be partly built by the client. The simplicity of the design would also allow for a synergy with the surrounding nature and for its inherent beauty to stand out and be front and center, each making the other more beautiful.
