Résidence L’Ardoise :
the art of the monolith
Generating contemplative images through a sensitive and thoughtful architectural approach
June 29, 2024
Located on the shores of Lac des Deux-Montagnes in the greater Montreal area, Résidence l’Ardoise is set in a green setting. Here, every interior and exterior element is designed to highlight the site’s natural elements. The simplicity of the whole creates a comfortable, bright and warm environment.
The new residence extends over an elongated plot, bordered on one side by a road running alongside former farmland and on the other by the Lake of Two Mountains. A driveway lined with large mature trees leads from the site entrance to the lake, a major asset, with its shoreline and abundant vegetation, which should be enhanced and preserved.
The architectural vision crystallized around one key idea: to split the property into two distinct entities, one for the living space and the other for the garage intended to house a collection of cars.
The building is set back from the public highway, a strategy that offers several advantages. It preserves the existing landscape in the eastern part of the site while providing occupants with peace and privacy from the nautical panorama offered by the Lake of Two Mountains.
The commission was for a spacious single-storey home, incorporating several garages to display the car collection. The major challenge of this project was to find solutions to minimize the environmental impact of such a large single-family residence while creating impressive spaces that showcase the site’s natural assets.
‘The square-shaped volume is articulated around a central atrium. This key space gives rhythm to the interior path and organizes the spatial distribution of the various zones.’
The square living space is positioned to the west of the property, offering an unobstructed view of the water. The elongated garage is partially buried, providing a natural barrier to the adjacent property. This L-shaped configuration is complemented by a landscaped square serving as a forecourt. This entrance space fulfils a dual function: it marks the entrance to the property while providing the necessary area for vehicle manoeuvring.
The house concept incorporates a long-term vision, anticipating the evolving needs of its occupants. With the desire to live in the space for as long as possible, accessibility was a key element in the architectural design and organization of circulation. As a result, all living spaces and private areas are on one level, making it easy to adapt to the future needs of residents.
The main entrance is located at the intersection of the two volumes. Slightly set back, it is curved by the slate walls and the forecourt garden. This pivotal point of the house is enhanced by a south-facing interior garden, which allows midday light to flood the space.
The square-shaped volume is built around a central atrium. This key space punctuates the interior layout and organizes the spatial distribution of the various zones: living areas, bedrooms and master suite. The atrium also brings natural light to the heart of the project. Its floor, composed of large slate slabs, is covered with a thin film of water that makes the light sparkle, creating a dynamic play of reflections.
The facade overlooking the lake features vast sliding glass panels, offering panoramic views of the bay. The residence’s living spaces are extended outdoors by a veranda, a series of terraces and an infinity pool. These outdoor elements seamlessly blend with the interior, creating a harmonious transition between indoor and outdoor living. The infinity pool, in particular, appears to merge with the lake, enhancing the sense of connection with nature. The roof, like a large wooden sail, projects beyond the facade, creating an overhang that protects the bay windows facing the lake from intense sun and bad weather.
Footprint and living spaces
The volume for displaying the car collection is spread over two levels: a first floor communicating with the living spaces of the house, and a basement accessible via the reworked topography of the site. This strategy reduces the size of the building on the site and the visual importance of the volume, making it easier to integrate.
The choice of materials was based on simplicity, authenticity and durability. Cedar and slate were chosen for the exterior envelope. Slate, sourced from the Eastern Townships, is used not only for masonry but also for landscaping. Slate screening and cobblestones of the same stone are used for the driveway surfaces, creating a harmonious continuity between the building and its surroundings.
‘Slate screening and cobblestones of the same stone are used for the driving surfaces, creating a harmonious continuity between the building and its surroundings.’
Wood, which adorns certain facades less exposed to the elements, extends harmoniously into the interior spaces. Cedar panelling covers most ceilings, bringing a natural warmth to all rooms.
The concern to reduce the environmental impact of this building is reflected in an efficient envelope and high-performance mechanical systems.
The dialogue established during the design phase with experts in energy simulations enabled us to optimize the design of the envelope: dimensioning and orientation of fenestration, triple glazing, and thermal insulation that exceeds current standards. In addition, the forced-air heating system, radiant floor heating and air conditioning are coupled to a geothermal loop.
Résidence l’Ardoise
General contractor: Parma Construction Inc.
Structural and civil engineering: CLA Experts Conseils Inc.
Mechanical/electrical engineering: MRA
Energy simulation: Martin Roy et Associés (MRA)
Landscape architecture: Fahey et associés Aménagement paysager : Uni-Vert
About Blouin Beauchamp Architectes
Blouin Beauchamp Architects is one of the most dynamic architectural firms of its generation. Since its genesis in 2004, the studio has been practicing meaningful, coherent and resilient architecture for tomorrow’s generations.
‘Construction of a perennial architecture that places people and the environment at the heart of its approach.’
Over the past 20 years, Blouin Beauchamp Architectes’ expertise has ranged from master plans to institutional buildings, from multi-unit residential and commercial buildings to health and resort projects. These include a long list of buildings with environmental certifications, as well as numerous awards and mentions of excellence.
Images: Raphaël Thibodeau via v2com
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