chalet forestier weekend cabin designed by atelier barda & lise gagné

chalet forestier weekend cabin designed by atelier barda & lise gagné
above: image © frédéric bouchard

‘chalet forestier’ is a single family cottage that sits upon the eastern face of mount pinnacle in frelighsburg, quebec. the home was designed by quebecois firm atelier barda, in collaboration with lise gagné architect, using a modest set of requirements laid out by the clients. it was necessary that the structure be easy to maintain — secondary weekend residence — be open to the surrounding landscape, and be built using cross-laminated timber.

black monolithic exterior 
image © frédéric bouchard

the design completes all three, and is organized as a single volume sub-divided into three programmatic spaces: a master bedroom/public area, a loggia, and children’s bloc. there’s one catch though, each is totally independent, with no access provided indoors. to move between the three, inhabitants must first walk outside — which during the canadian winter, is a feat unto itself.
 

porch detail 
image © frédéric bouchard

however the quirk was accepted excitedly by the clients, who believe forcing themselves outside will only enhance their relation to the landscape; as well as saving money by only heating occupied spaces. the home in its entirety is by no means hidden within the forest. its black mass is meant deliberately to create a sense of space by means of stark contrast. light and shadows dance across the structure unpredictably, further transforming the chalet throughout the days. 

wood reserves/enclosed eating area
image © frédéric bouchard

wooden table, access to main living area 
image © yves lefevbre

open kitchen 
image © yves lefevbre 

living room 
image © frédéric bouchard

wood stove and furnishings 
image © yves lefevbre

living room opposite 
image © yves lefevbre 

full wall bookshelves and massive window 
image © frédéric bouchard

master bedroom and open closet 
image © frédéric bouchard

hallway 
image © yves lefevbre

back façade 
image © frédéric bouchard

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edited by: nick brink | designboom