Malbaie VIII Residence by MU Architecture

MU Architecture have designed the Malbaie VIII Residence, located in the Charlevoix region of Quebec, Canada.

Project description

The reinterpretation of the traditional barn found in the area is the driving force of the architectural concept. Fully wrapped in a dark gray metal cladding on its sides and roof, the residence protected from the elements features a familiar form. Three volumetric cuts in the main volume, coated in white cedar planks are made to clearly mark the entrance on ground-floor and create space for two terraces on the upper floor. As if the metal skin had been stripped off to reveal a more fragile interior, the envelope evokes the idea of a tree’s bark protecting its inner core.

The experience of the house takes root in the basement, within its wood cladded and concrete formed walls, where a large playroom and children’s dormitory cohabit. At the ground level, the main lobby, entirely covered in wood, welcomes you in a cozy spa-like atmosphere. From the main entrance you can access four large en-suite bedrooms and the main staircase. In contrast to the white cedar walls, the railing of the staircase is made entirely of raw hot rolled steel. With surprising lightness it acts as a backbone connecting the different levels of the house.

As we move from the basement to the top floor, we enter the living spaces overlooking the forest and the surrounding area. We gradually discover framed views of trunks, branches and foliage as our eyes are lost over the distant mountains. The upper level reveals itself as a large open plan with kitchen, dining, lounge and living space. The mirror effect of radiant concrete floor accentuates the fluidity of the space and reflects the abundant natural light onto cedar walls and ceiling. Under an impressive cathedral ceiling, a fireplace is conveniently placed in the center of the open plan to unify the various activities of reading, cooking, eating and relaxing. The ambiance of the space plunges us into a comfort similar to that of old wooden homes. At night, low light levels slip the ceilings into shadow creating a warm but mysterious atmosphere that evokes the traditional Québécois evenings of yesteryear.

Architects: MU Architecture

Photograph: Ulysse Lemerise Bouchard (YUL Photo)