Fact File
Project: La Papillon
Location: St-Hilaire, Quebec, Canada
Area of site: 1,495 m2
Constructed area: 257 m2
Architecture: Luc Plante architecture + design
Project completion: March 2020
Photo credit: Raphaël Thibodeau
Source: V2com
The spectacular transformation of this house sets it apart from its neighbours. Since the size of the original house ran counter to the buyers’ needs, the extension and complete refurbishment of the site gave the architects a wealth of creative options.
Given this wide latitude, which allowed the home to double in size, the ground floor has kept its cathedral ceilings in the open areas, and the large windows enable the early morning sunlight to flood in. The kitchen has an imposing central island, and breath-taking views of the water. Generous windows added to the solarium at the back make it possible to gaze out at the flowing river throughout the seasons.
The contrasting wall surfaces bring out the mellowness of the wood right from the main entrance. The white wood slat ceiling amplifies the room height, giving it an expansive quality. The sleek, contemporary décor adds a finishing touch to the sense of fullness one experiences from the outset.
The children’s quarters are at garden level, with a family room that extends onto the yard and appears dug into the rock. The yard is surrounded by a magnificent wooden walkway that wends its way to the dock. The parents access their bedroom from the floor of the new section, using a private staircase. The balcony, artfully surrounded by a glass handrail, is symmetrical with the one on the ground floor, while the outdoor terrace, offers a place for intimate drinks with views of the setting sun. The upper section of the original construction has been transformed into a work-from-home space, with a complementary terrace on the garage roof.
The exterior covering is a combination of various textures of stone, white brick, and wood, while the carefully planned landscaping enhances the architecture.
