This spectacular family cottage retreat was designed by Christopher Simmonds Architect, located in Val-des-Monts, Quebec, Canada. Encompassing 1,900 square feet of living space, this modern shelter infused with Canadiana sits in the Gatineau hills, shifting its way over the edge of a cliff to command views of the adjacent lake.
The retreat is gently embedded in the Canadian Shield; the sleeping quarters firmly set in the rock while the cantilevered family room dramatically emerges from this stone base. The modest entry visible from the road leads to an orchestrated, tranquil path entering from the forest side of the house and moving through the space as it opens up onto the lakeside.
This cottage retreat in Canada illustrates a warm approach to modernism; white oak boards wrap from wall to floor enhancing the elongated shape of the house and slabs of silver maple create the bathroom vanity.
On the exterior, the main volume is wrapped with open-joint eastern white cedar while the stairwell is encased in steel; both are left unfinished to age with the elements.
On the lower level, the dormitory-style sleeping quarters are again embedded into the rock. Access to the exterior is provided by a walkout from the lower-level recreation room, allowing the family to easily explore nature.
Natural cooling is provided by cool air rising from the lake, passing in through the lakeside openings and out through the clerestory windows on the forest elevation. The expanse of windows engages the ephemeral foliage from the treetops to the forest floor. The softness and shadows of the filtered forest light fosters an intimate relationship between the exterior and the interior.
What We Love: This fabulous cottage retreat is perched over a lake and surrounded by a pristine forest for the utmost privacy. Expansive walls of glazing frame views of the tranquil setting, creating a feeling of relaxation and comfort. We are loving the simplistic design of this home, with very few distractions to help focus your attention on the outdoors. Overall, we think this modern shelter in the woods would be perfect for a relaxing weekend getaway.
Tell Us: What do you think, would this be your idea of the perfect vacation escape? Let us know in the Comments below!
Note: Have a look at a couple of other incredible home tours that we have featured here on One Kindesign in the Canadian province of Quebec: This modern refuge provides a cozy retreat in the forests of Canada and Breathtaking lakefront dream house in the Laurentian Mountains.
PHOTOGRAPHER Doublespace Photography
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