Atelier l'Abri Raises Magdalen House on Timber Piles Above Protected Quebec Dune
Atelier l'abri, located in Montreal, has finalized the construction of Magdalen House, a small dwelling situated on the Magdalen Islands, which tackles issues of coastal erosion and protects the delicate dune ecosystem. Positioned away from the coast on an occupied plateau, it safeguards the dunes of Havre-Aubert Island. The design respects the area's sensitive environments, featuring a spacious terrace elevated on eastern hemlock timber piles to minimize excavation. Reflecting the local architectural style, the residence showcases untreated cedar shingles, with interiors comprising pine flooring, North American stone, and custom millwork crafted by a nearby woodworker. Local artisans contributed artwork for the interior. This project, which draws inspiration from other Quebec homes, was completed in 2024 in Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine, Quebec, Canada.
Key facts
- Atelier l'abri is a Montreal-based design-build studio.
- Magdalen House is located on the Magdalen Islands, Quebec, Canada.
- The house is set back from the shoreline on an existing plateau to preserve the dune ecosystem.
- Part of the house and terrace are raised on eastern hemlock timber piles.
- Cedar shingles wrap the walls and roof, left to weather naturally.
- The design draws on the Magdalen vernacular, a local adaptation of the Acadian house.
- The house was built with contractors and craftspeople from the Magdalen Islands.
- Art and ceramics inside were made by artists and artisans from the Magdalen Islands.
- The project was completed in 2024.
Entities
Artists
- Ravi Handa Architect
- Nathalie Thibodeau Architecte
Institutions
- atelier l'abri
Locations
- Montreal
- Quebec
- Canada
- Magdalen Islands
- Havre-Aubert Island
- Cap-aux-Meules Island
- Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine