- Project: Blanche Chalet
- Architect: ACDF Architecture
- Location: Canada, Cap-à-l’Aigle, La Malbaie, Québec
- Year: 2017
- Area: 397 m2
- Photography: Adrien Williams
Nestled in the picturesque Charlevoix region of Québec, the Blanche Chalet by ACDF Architecture redefines contemporary chalet living. With its striking cantilevered upper floor, clean white façade, and expansive glass walls, the residence harmonizes vernacular inspiration with modern minimalism.
A Modern Tribute to Vernacular Roots
The chalet sits on a raw concrete base, recalling the stone foundations of the old barns that once dotted the region’s rural landscape. Above, two levels clad in white-stained wood reinterpret the lime-plastered ancestral homes of Charlevoix. The façade varies between smooth, raw textures and openwork siding, creating a playful rhythm of light and shadow.
Cantilevered Living Spaces
The chalet’s defining feature is its floating volume, housing the main living area. Suspended dramatically over the base, this cantilever recalls the form of traditional bridges while offering sweeping views of the St. Lawrence River. Inside, the top level contains a kitchen and dining space surrounded by 360-degree glazing, immersing residents in the ever-changing colors of the landscape.
Interior Atmosphere
The chalet balances social openness with private retreat. Four bedrooms are tucked into the central levels, while the upper floor is reserved for communal living. Expansive windows frame sunsets over Cap-à-l’Aigle and the shimmering reflections of the St. Lawrence estuary, blending comfort with spectacle.
Materials and Connection to Nature
Natural materials—wood, stone, and steel—are expressed in their purest forms. The interplay of these elements grounds the residence in its context, inviting contemplation and creating an atmosphere of serenity. Fenestration ensures constant dialogue between indoors and outdoors, reinforcing the connection with the lake, forest, and mountains.
A Chalet for Modern Life
Designed to reflect the owner’s desire for both family intimacy and social openness, the Blanche Chalet offers a composition that juxtaposes communal and private spaces. It is at once a modern refuge and a continuation of Charlevoix’s architectural heritage, proving how contemporary design can honor tradition while embracing innovation.
