Appareil Architecture Completes Chalet Moraine in Quebec's Laurentians
In 2025, Appareil Architecture, located in Montreal, finalized Chalet Moraine, a lakeside residence in Quebec's Laurentians, for a couple who had resided on the same lakeshore for many years. The original chalet, constructed in the 1960s, was replaced because of deteriorating foundations. The new structure is subtly positioned away from the water and showcases a simple rectangular form topped with a gabled roof. Inside, independent service volumes define the layout, while expansive dormer windows facilitate a connection between the interior and the surrounding landscape. Architects Kim Pariseau and Marc-Antoine Juneau prioritized a minimalist approach. Contractor Gestion Séquence faced difficulties due to the lack of load-bearing walls. The chalet features wood cladding, drawing inspiration from the area's traditional log cabins.
Key facts
- Appareil Architecture, based in Montreal, completed Chalet Moraine in 2025.
- The lake house is in Quebec's Laurentians and was built for a couple established on the same lakeshore for several decades.
- The land previously held a chalet converted from an outbuilding in the 1960s; aging foundations led to a full rebuild.
- The house is set back from the shore to protect privacy and remain discreet from the lake.
- Interior service volumes are modeled on glacial erratic boulders and are freestanding, detached from the main structure.
- Large dormer windows, introduced by early French settlers, create transitional spaces with deep-set glazing and contrasting wood cladding.
- Architect Kim Pariseau worked with Marc-Antoine Juneau; Pariseau emphasized restraint and precision.
- Contractor Gestion Séquence cited the absence of load-bearing walls on the two main floors as a challenge requiring extensive calculation.
- A slatted screen wall with a single red accent references the painted ends of traditional log timbers, a detail historian Jacques Robert links to the region's loggies.
- The chalet uses wood cladding as a key material.
Entities
Artists
- Kim Pariseau
- Marc-Antoine Juneau
- Jacques Robert
- Mathieu
Institutions
- Appareil Architecture
- Gestion Séquence
Locations
- Montreal
- Canada
- Laurentians
- Quebec