bourgeois / lechasseur's 'reflection' cabins disappear into forests of québec

a forested retreat

bourgeois / lechasseur architects nestles a pair of contemporary cabins dubbed ‘reflection’ in the forests of québec. the project marks a continuation of the team’s exploration of tiny getaways — first a collection of elevated geodesic domes, then a nostalgic A-frame. this latest retreat takes shape as two identical units, built atop a flat swath of land near massif petite-rivière-saint-françois, one of the area’s most popular resorts. rather than emphasizing the overwhelming views across the mountainous landscape, the design team creates a more intimate, inward-looking atmosphere which disappears among the trees.

image © adrien williams | @adrienwilliamsphotos

reflection of the québec woods

the design team at bourgeois / lechasseur architects invites visitors to approach the ‘reflection’ cabins through an unpaved road that links to a network of hiking trails. to ensure privacy, the two contemporary cabins are oriented away from each other and are situated fifty meters (164 feet) apart with one cabin facing east and the other facing west. the most striking element is an entirely glazed façade, which blurs into the forest backdrop. the other three façades are finished with darkened wooden slats, further contributing to the sense of immersion among the surrounding forest.

blending into the trees

the entrances, off to the side of each cabin, are pushed inwards, interrupting the otherwise mostly seamless façades. the move is typical of bourgeois / lechasseur architects, who clearly enjoy blurring the lines between exteriors and interiors. the dark wood cladding used outside appears to carry through the interior along the entire length of the living area, while the clear pine ceiling used throughout the units is replicated outside. designed for up to six persons, each cabin features a cozy living/dining area with a fireplace, as well as two enclosed bedrooms and a luxurious bathroom. guests can also enjoy the relaxing environment of an exterior spa.

one facade of full height glazing blends the structure into the forests