The Contemporary Residence “Between Lake and Forest”

Nestled amidst the breathtaking natural landscape of Sainte-Anne-des-Lacs, Quebec, the residence “Between Lake and Forest” presents a seamless integration of contemporary architecture and its lush surroundings. Designed by the Montreal-based firm LOCUS architecture + design, this home offers a striking example of how modern design can coexist harmoniously with the natural environment. With expansive views over Lac Cupidon and the Laurentian countryside, the building exemplifies a retreat from the bustling urban life into a tranquil, carefully curated sanctuary.

The Vision of LOCUS Architecture + Design

The creative minds behind this project, Thomas Evans and Yousef Farasat, co-founders of LOCUS architecture + design, approach architecture with a focus on the connection between people and their spaces. The firm is dedicated to creating lasting relationships between clients and their environments through a blend of emotional and intellectual design. The architects’ vision for “Between Lake and Forest” was to craft a home that not only serves as a comfortable retreat but also as a place for the residents to experience the natural beauty surrounding them—capturing the essence of the Laurentian region’s lakes and forests in a modern architectural language.

A Design Concept That Blends with Nature

The design concept for the home is deeply rooted in the desire to respect and preserve the natural setting. The 3,600 sq. ft. house is situated on a four-acre wooded site, perched at its highest point. The architects were mindful of the environmental impact and worked meticulously to ensure that the building would integrate into the landscape without disrupting the local wetlands or wildlife paths. The house is composed of a dark, upper volume that rests on an exposed concrete plinth, elevating the building off the ground to minimize its footprint on the land. Large windows and glazed projections extend toward the lake and the surrounding trees, allowing the interior spaces to continuously engage with the outdoor environment.

By removing structural elements from the lakeside perimeter, the design creates a light, open feel, blending the building with the surroundings. Notably, the living room and library are framed with glass, offering unimpeded views of the horizon. This strategic use of glazing reinforces the sense of openness, enabling the residents to feel as though they are living within the forest canopy while enjoying the tranquil vistas beyond.

Functionality: A Retreat for Living and Relaxation

The layout of the home is both functional and focused on the experience of space. A large, concrete staircase leads up to the main floor, creating a dramatic entrance. Once inside, the residents are greeted by expansive living areas, where full-height windows extend across the width of the home. This openness, combined with the light pine-clad ceilings, enhances the connection between the indoors and the outdoors, making the living spaces feel expansive and connected to nature.

The house is split into two sections: the public living spaces, such as the living room and kitchen, and the private sleeping areas. The library, cantilevered into the treetops, serves as a highlight of the home, offering a place of quiet retreat bathed in natural light. Below, the basement houses a family room, guest bedrooms, and access to the outdoor spa, creating a space for relaxation and connection to the landscape. The strategic siting and design considerations ensure that each room, from the main living areas to the basement, offers views of the surrounding forest and lake, creating a serene environment for all who enter.

Environmental Sensitivity and Integration with the Landscape

One of the most notable aspects of the “Between Lake and Forest” residence is the environmental sensitivity embedded in its design. The Laurentian region, with its dense forest, wetlands, and wildlife, posed a unique challenge for the architects during the planning phase. In response, the building’s siting was carefully chosen to preserve the natural habitat while still fulfilling the client’s desire for a functional, modern home. By negotiating the dense forest, topography, and proximity to the lake, the architects successfully integrated the residence into its surroundings, ensuring the home respects both the natural beauty and the ecological balance of the site.

Technical Sheet