A Breath of Freshwater Air | Lake Memphrémagog Residence by MU Architecture

Allowing its meticulous selection of finishes, textures and materials to speak loud and clear, Lake Memphrémagog Residence in Québec triumphs in the limelight while melodiously harmonising with its lush greenscape and crystal blue waters

IMAGES COURTESY OF ULYSSE LEMERISE BOUCHARD & JEAN-SÉBASTIEN HERR

The name ‘Memphremagog’ comes from the indigenous Algonquian term meaning “where there is a big expanse of water”; this signification led to the bestowment of Lake Memphremagog’s nomenclature, upon noticing the freshwater glacial lake naturally carved in between Vermont, United States and Québec, Canada.

Surrounded by hills and mountains, it makes for a picturesque getaway location to say the least. Sitting atop its steep shores, in the Eastern Townships Region of Quebec, is a 6,700 square foot residence named directly after the lake, courtesy of Montreal-based MU Architecture in collaboration with JS Bourdages Architecture.

A discreet and peaceful yet intentional approach is taken to convey the exterior and interior character. Inspired by a bird’s unfolded wing, the undulating roof follows the volumes of its interior spaces. At its furthest point of 14 feet, the roof projects outwards, providing protection against Quebec’s harsh winters and warm summers. The façade, composed of massive volumes between the floor-to-ceiling windows, ensures a comforting level of privacy. Its dark natural stone skin strongly contrasts with the bright, spacious and airy interiors.

A pre-existing garage sits at one end of the new principal axis, connected to the residence through a roof structure that serves as a carport. However, extended from this axis point to the other is a linear terrace that connects the interiors to the common outdoor spaces, ground level patio and infinity pool, granting shaded passageway.

Inside the residence, the harmony and richness of the finishes, textures and materials exude a warm but exclusive feel. The lighting and mechanical systems have been thoughtfully integrated and concealed within the wooden ceilings, comprising a series of triangulations at varying heights to create uniquely dynamic spaces with the floor-to-ceiling windows following these same angles.

The kitchen’s design accommodates daily family needs, yet that of a chef and an accompanying culinary team if necessary. A concealed door and built-in curtain separates the service kitchen from the rest of the residence. Walnut panels enclose the kitchen, dinette, library and half of a double living room; the warm richness of the wood also complements the stone and steel of the central fireplace. Entertaining up to 24 guests, the custom-made dining room table is a knockout piece, running parallel to the kitchen island and floor-to-ceiling windows, and offering impressive views of the bay.

Sequentially, the main level plays host to a veranda, cloakroom, powder room, main living area, kitchen, dining room, double living room, laundry room and the masters’ quarters. As for the ground level, it houses a lounge, training room, spa with a dry sauna, whirlpool bath and three bedrooms adjacent to two full bathrooms and a playroom.

Considering the home’s horizontal axis divides the technical and mechanical rooms from the primary living areas, occupants can take advantage of the natural light and exterior views; this allows them to connect with their surrounding environment, while providing user comfort and spatial fluidity. While on the subject, contrasting but complementing the wild allure of the area’s great outdoors is its tamed landscape, inclusive of a protected courtyard, at the capable hands of Les aménagements Yan Traversy.

A reinforced concrete formwork allows the infinity pool to cantilever out 16-feet as an extension of the main level terrace, while a clear glass panel sparks the cool illusion of the pool merging into the lake. The residual space between the load-bearing concrete walls serves as a mechanical room for pool systems, as well as storage space for outdoor furniture and more.

An optimal oasis for those that veer towards glamping over camping, this ‘modern deluxe cabin’ of sorts pushes the limits of indoor-outdoor living as we know it to serve the very best of both on a silver platter. It not only propers in the art of catching one’s eye but it blends seamlessly into the encompassing woodlands to proudly amplify, instead of disrupt, the overall Canadian landscape.

For more information, please visit www.architecture-mu.com

This article is originally available in Metropolitan Home