nook residence by MU architecture responds to quebec's undulating terrain

nook residence by MU architecture responds to quebec’s undulating terrain
all images by ulysse lemerise bouchard

located in a quiet area of quebec’s eastern townships, the ‘nook residence’ is a two-storey home designed by local practice MU architecture. turning its back to the street, the dwelling offers a virtually blind, yet intriguing façade. on approach, carefully positioned openings and a large gap in the building’s white mass offer only a glimpse of the picturesque landscape beyond.

the ‘nook residence’ is located in a quiet area of quebec’s eastern townships

the home has been designed in response to the region’s undulating terrain, as it descends towards lake memphremagog at the rear of the property. internally, a sequence of open-plan living spaces at ground level unveil different views of the adjacent landscape. the journey culminates in a sunken lounge that serves as a secluded internal balcony. below, the lower storey contains two large bedrooms, a bathroom, and a dormitory.

polished concrete floors extend throughout the home

polished concrete floors extend throughout the home, while black ceramic tiles and walnut furniture punctuate the space. cedar ceilings extend outside in continuity with the external roof soffits. the entire residence is united beneath a roof canopy that ties together the fragmented structures, and creates a sheltered south-facing terrace. the building has been clad with a white coat of paint, that allows the property to change with the seasons and blend with the winter landscape.

a sequence of open-plan living spaces at ground level unveil different views of the landscape

the home has been designed in response to the region’s undulating terrain

a sheltered terrace adjoins the primary living accommodation

a sunken lounge serves as a secluded internal balcony

a fireplace is positioned in the corner of the room

a staircase leads to the level below

sleeping accommodation includes two large bedrooms and a dormitory

the property’s bathroom at the lower storey

a gap in the building’s white mass offers a glimpse of the picturesque landscape beyond

from the street, the dwelling offers a virtually blind, yet intriguing façade

floor plan / level 0

floor plan / level -1

project info:

name: nook residence
architects: MU Architecture
team: jean-sébastien herr, charles côté, valérie beaudin, pierre-paul guillemette
location: mansonville, québec
area: 3,000 sqf / 279 sqm
structure: latéral
contractor: constructions boivin
completed: december 2015
photography: ulysse lemerise bouchard (YUL photo)