Q8 Residence: Blocky Cedar Bliss Nestled in a Quebec Forest

The call of the wild, the tranquillity of the trees – it’s a siren song for many of us. And the clever folks over at Montreal-based Ménard Dworkind Studio have answered that call with the stunning Q8 Residence. Perched at the base of a hill in Quebec’s Mont Tremblant, this 280-square-metre (3000 square foot) abode, completed in 2024, is a masterclass in architectural immersion, wrapping its inhabitants in the serene embrace of the surrounding forest. Forget the hustle and bustle; this is a retreat designed for pure, unadulterated relaxation.

The Q8 Residence presents itself as a captivating arrangement of staggered volumes, almost like a set of playfully stacked, asymmetrical boxes. What immediately grabs the eye is the clever use of different exterior cladding materials, primarily warm cedar, which lends the home a natural and inviting aesthetic that blends seamlessly with its woodland setting. Approaching from the north, the house takes on a more reserved character, with fewer openings, effectively turning its back to the road in favour of much-needed privacy and crucial heat retention during those chilly Quebec winters. Smart thinking, indeed.

The journey to the heart of the Q8 Residence begins with a gravel driveway leading to a rather handy western carport. This sheltered space elegantly spans both the main house and a storage room, offering a practical and dry entry point. A distinctive zig-zag-shaped corner juts out into the carport, cleverly marking the transition between the entryway and a path that guides you around the house towards the more social family zones.

The informal entry itself is tucked away in an interior corner, a welcoming junction where a bent lower form, clad in vertical larch siding, meets a rectangular upper volume adorned with the lighter tones of white cedar shingles. A short garden wall, crafted from board-formed concrete, adds another layer of textural intrigue to this carefully considered entrance. The warm tones of the larch siding and ceiling materials extend seamlessly across the front entry and into a compressed mudroom, a practical space before opening up dramatically into a breathtaking double-height living, dining, and kitchen area. This central hub of the house fosters a fantastic sense of openness and connectivity, perfect for family life and entertaining.

In the kitchen, a sleek pantry cleverly hides behind a sliding screen and cabinet, a neat design touch that helps maintain an uncluttered and minimalist aesthetic. A large screened-in porch runs the entire length of the eastern side of the house, sheltered by the overhanging second floor. This fantastic space acts as a secondary dining and living area, offering protection from insects while still capturing the beautiful morning light – ideal for those lazy breakfasts or evening gatherings.

Stepping out from the porch, you’ll find yourself on a square pool deck on the southern side of the house. Here, a striking double-sided fireplace forms a matte column along the exterior facade, creating a wonderful focal point for outdoor relaxation. The western side of the house is home to a private suite, thoughtfully designed for aging residents. This includes a primary bedroom, bathroom, laundry area, and even a gym space, all of which open up to a protected triangular porch. A curved privacy wall discreetly shields an exterior shower space, a rather luxurious touch, which is further sheltered by a large boulder unearthed during the home’s excavation – a charming reminder of the natural landscape.

Ascending to the upper level, a portion of the hallway has been cleverly transformed into a cosy reading nook. Complete with a floor-to-ceiling bookshelf and a comfortable daybed, this inviting space overlooks the impressive double-height living room below. The upper level also houses three additional bedrooms and two bathrooms, ensuring ample space for family and guests. The Q8 Residence by Ménard Dworkind Studio is a truly exceptional home, a harmonious blend of striking architectural design and a deep connection to its stunning forest surroundings, offering its residents a genuine sanctuary of tranquillity.

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