Montreal-based studio Mu Architecture has designed the Malbaie VI “La Marée” project.
Completed in September 2011, this 3,200 square foot two story home is located in the magnificent region of Cap-à-l’Aigle in the heart of Charlevoix, Quebec, Canada.
The Malbaie VI residence is part of Les Terrasses Cap-à-l’Aigle, a unique residential hillside development offering stunning views of La Malbaie, the St. Lawrence River and the surrounding mountains. The concept of the residence revolves around two off-centered volumes positioned in such a way to take in as much sunlight as possible and to make the most out of the different viewpoints. These two volumes seem to emerge from the forest and project themselves towards the River and La Malbaie. The whole house forms an angle that embraces a huge private terrace at the lower level.
At the center of the house, an architectural red metal spiral staircase acts like a pivot to the two principal axes. The living room, dining room and kitchen are connected to this staircase which incidentally serves as an ever-present visual signal. The radiant concrete floor and the foundation walls are left rough accentuating the contrast with the cedar ceiling. The kitchen, ergonomic and very contemporary, contains a large island counter which is used as a work surface and a dining table. It sits in front of a large panoramic window offering stunning views over the river.
