A Lakeside Home that Adapts to the Rhythm of Nature

#architecture #housedesign #housetour
Alma 24 House
Architects: Maria José Benech + Stéphane Asselin
Area: 184 m²
Year: 2022
Photographs:Maxime Brouillet, Adrien Williams y Stéphane Asselin
Architect: Maria Jose Benech
Designer: Stéphane Asselin
Structure Engineer: Jean-Francois Bilodeau (Latéral Conseil)
Landscape Design: Réflex Paysage, Dave Jean (Réflex Paysage)
Constructor: Solutions Résidentielles, Michel Leblanc (Solutions Résidentielles)
Structure Engineers: Latéral Conseil
City: Québec City
Country: Canada
Nestled on the northeastern shore of Lac-Saint-Jean, Canada, amidst a breathtaking landscape of sandy beaches and majestic cliffs, lies the Alma-24 project. A once-abandoned summer pavilion stood sentinel here, its remnants disrupting the natural flow of the land. The new owners, however, saw an opportunity. Sensitive to the area's fragile beauty, they embarked on a journey to create a home that coexisted seamlessly with its surroundings.
The first step involved dismantling the damaged structure, restoring the topography to its original glory. This meticulous process unveiled the site's true identity and provided the canvas upon which the future residence would be built. Gone were the days of unnecessary deforestation; the new structure would rise in harmony with the existing landscape.
The architectural approach for Alma-24 was a symphony of nature and human ingenuity. Imagine a building that becomes part of the rugged rock formations, whispers secrets to the whispering pines, and throws open its windows to embrace the vast expanse of the lake. This vision materialized in two structures - a workshop/garage and the main residence - positioned strategically to reveal the landscape in a series of breathtaking unveilings.
Sustainability and local character were paramount in the choice of materials. Natural elements, like wood and stone, served to anchor the residence to the region, creating a sense of belonging and reflecting the timeless beauty of the environment. This focus on resilience ensured the home could withstand the harsh Canadian winters and the unpredictable temperament of the lake.
The heart of the residence is the main building, a two-story marvel that dances with the topography. The lower level, cleverly integrated into the existing slope, provides access to the house and unveils a semi-enclosed outdoor space perfect for summer gatherings. Its sturdy, minerality echoes the surrounding rocks, offering protection from the lake's strong winds and the occasional bad weather. One gets a sense of the dwelling floating above the ground, held in place by only a few supports, ensuring nature continues to thrive uninterrupted underneath.
Ascend to the upper floor, and the true magic of Alma-24 unfolds. The living space transforms into an open plan haven, where panoramic views of the lake steal the show. From this vantage point, the residents can experience Lac-Saint-Jean in all its glory, witnessing its ever-changing moods and seasonal transformations.
Alma-24 stands as a testament to architecture that embraces its context. It's a home that adapts to the changing seasons, offering a distinct yet equally captivating experience throughout the year. In summer, it becomes a beach chalet, its outdoorsy space beckoning one to soak up the sun and revel in the lake's warmth. In winter, it transforms into a cozy haven, its windows framing the frozen expanse of the lake while offering the warmth of wood and the comfort of home. This sensitive exploration of place identity ensures that Alma-24 becomes one with Lac-Saint-Jean, a harmonious blend of nature and human ingenuity.
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