La Cime Cabin

Nestled within the serene woodlands of Lanaudière, Québec, La Cime by Naturehumaine Architects offers a unique retreat that immerses visitors in nature while providing the comforts of a thoughtfully designed cabin. This timber-clad micro chalet, aptly named La Cime, or “The Top,” stands as a modern interpretation of traditional wooden huts, elevated above the forest floor to create a sense of floating among the treetops.

The design of La Cime Cabin is defined by its connection to the natural surroundings. Elevated 3.6 meters (12 feet) on steel stilts, the cabin allows rainwater to flow freely beneath it, minimizing its impact on the sloped forest site. The structure’s large windows and expansive terrace invite the outdoors in, offering uninterrupted views of the surrounding trees and the feeling of being enveloped by the forest canopy.

The cabin’s exterior is clad in pre-aged western pine, a material choice that echoes the vertical lines of the surrounding tree trunks, helping La Cime blend seamlessly into its environment. A steel staircase and stepped stone patio lead up to the cabin, where two distinct terrace areas await. One terrace is covered, providing a sheltered space to enjoy the outdoors even in inclement weather, while the other is open, featuring a hot tub and sun loungers for soaking in the natural beauty of the setting.

Inside, the cabin’s design continues to prioritise a connection with nature. The interior is finished with white-pine panelling on the walls and ceilings, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Plywood built-in furniture offers a minimalist aesthetic, while polished concrete floors add a touch of modernity. The cabin’s layout is cleverly divided into two volumes: the more enclosed eastern volume houses the single bedroom, where a large window frames the forest view, making it feel as though you’re sleeping among the trees.

The living and kitchen area is situated on the upper level of the smaller volume, where the open-plan design and expansive windows further enhance the sensation of being immersed in the tree canopy. Above the staircase, a rope-hammock seating area offers a unique spot to relax and take in the forest views.

La Cime is more than just a holiday cabin—it’s a harmonious blend of architecture and nature, where every element is designed to heighten the experience of the surrounding landscape. Naturehumaine Architects have created a retreat that not only respects its environment but elevates the idea of a woodland escape to new heights.

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