The « Blanche » Chalet, whose name recalls the hues of the vernacular houses of the region, is located in La Malbaie’s Terrasses Cap-à-l’Aigle. Its simple and pure architecture gently complements the landscape of Charlevoix in a modern fashion and provides its owner with a convivial space to contemplate the beauty of nature.
Details
The cottage stands on a raw concrete base, a material that evokes the stone foundations of the old wooden barns that once swept the landscape. This base also serves as the foundation for the main entrance and houses the technical spaces of the cottage. Perched on the podium, the two upper levels are clad in white stained wood, which is reminiscent of the lime plaster that was applied on the ancestral homes of the area. The wood’s texture varies depending on the façade. The playful composition of smooth, raw and openwork siding brings lightness and joy to the house.
The four bedrooms of the “Blanche” Chalet are located on the first floor of the building in order to maximize the panoramic views of the living spaces that are placed at the top level. The kitchen and dining room are characterized by large 360-degree fenestration, while the living room is housed in a floating overhang whose unique form is reminiscent of the structure of old bridges. This cantilevered volume allows for a direct experience of the enchanting sunsets of La Malbaie and the shimmering reflections of the St. Lawrence estuary right from the comfort of the home.
This cottage residence is the expression of the convivial atmosphere sought by its owner. The social nature of the house – its openness to family, friends, and occasional professional exchanges – is favoured by its composition that simply and intelligently juxtaposes the common spaces and the private ones. The use of natural materials, such as stone, wood, and steel with a minimal yet original building shape links the “Blanche” Chalet to its setting, inviting visitors to contemplate this special place.
Client : DAVNIC (David Lafrance et Nicolas Barette)
Location : Cap-à-l’Aigle, (La Malbaie), QC
Opening date : 2016
Area : 4275 pi2
Budget : ±900 000$
Architect : ACDF Architecture
Structural ingineers : NCK
Contractor: Demonfort
Photographer : Adrien Williams
2017 – Finaliste aux Prix d’excellence de l’ordre des architectes du Québec (OAQ), Chalet Blanche
2016 – Interior Design Magazine Best of Year Awards : Chalet Blanche
2016 – American Architecture Prize, Prix Argent, Design Interieur / Maison interieur : Chalet Blanche