Architecture, nature
and nurturing light

L’Intervalle, a contemporary residence that embraces the natural curves of the landscape

Via v2com

October 22, 2025

Located in Saint-Hippolyte, in the heart of a natural landscape marked by the steep slope of the land and the beauty of Lac Fournelle, L’Intervalle is a residential architectural project that subtly creates a dialogue between nature and construction. With a leaning towards a contemporary aesthetic, this chalet, designed by the atelier Boom-Town, reinterprets Quebecois vacation architecture in harmony with its environment.

The building naturally fits into the relief and unfolds its spaces over two levels, multiplying framings and viewpoints of the surrounding landscape.

Situated on a steep terrain, the residence takes advantage of the topography to shape its architectural design. The building naturally integrates into the relief and spreads its spaces across two levels, multiplying perspectives and views on the surrounding landscape. Far from being a constraint, the slope becomes the guiding thread of the project.

The residence consists of two distinct volumes, clearly defined by the contrast between light wood and dark wood. This duality, the actual signature of the project, conveys a clear reading of the built masses while ensuring harmonious integration with the forest. The name Intervalle reflects this dual interpretation: a pause in time, a suspended moment dedicated to vacationing, and also a space between two volumes where light, visual openings, and terraces extend the interior experience toward nature.

The ground floor (950 sq. ft.) accommodates the living spaces. Upon entering, the vestibule opens onto a shared area comprising the kitchen, pantry, dining room, and living room. The generous glazed surfaces offer a panoramic view of the lake. The natural wood ceiling follows the lines of the roof, accentuating the verticality and warmth of the space, while the polished concrete floor brings a contemporary touch. At the heart of the living room, the dark fireplace acts as the focal point of family life. The veranda and terrace naturally extend the interior spaces to the outside.

The garden level (1,580 sq. ft.) houses private spaces, including the master bedroom with a walk-in closet and an adjoining bathroom, two additional bedrooms, a second bathroom, an office, a multipurpose room, and technical and storage areas. Taking advantage of the slope, these rooms also open directly onto the landscape, removing the usual hierarchy between floors.

‘The residence consists of two distinct volumes, clearly defined by the contrast between light and dark wood.’

Outside, the belvedere terraces extend the built volumes and emphasize the connection with the terrain. They offer various experiences: a high viewpoint over the lake, an intimate immersion in the woods, or a simple extension of the living areas. These external sequences express the very spirit of L’Intervalle: a place of breathing and contemplation.

By the balance of its proportions, the accuracy of its materials, and the clarity of its placement, L’Intervalle embodies a contemporary vision of Quebecois vacation architecture. The architecture becomes a companion to the relief, the lake, and the forest, offering a sober and warm setting conducive to relaxation and reconnection with Laurentian nature.

About Atelier Boom-Town

Atelier Boom-Town offers a reinterpretation of residential architecture by working with space, light, and material, based on the original principles of Boomtown-style buildings. These were created on the outskirts of factories and industries in mining towns at the beginning of the 20th century. These buildings were distinguished by their simple facades, square volumes, and flat roofs, which was an innovation at the time. Today, the simplicity and efficiency of these designs inspire contemporary projects that, through architecture both innovative and contextual, enhance their environment and the experience of their users.

Images: Vincent Brillant