T
his project began when a couple decided to sell their prima-
ry residence in the city to purchase a cottage on the north-
ern point of Archambault Lake in Saint-Donat. It was located
on a picturesque, south-facing site with a hundred metres of private
beach. They planned to retire in this magnificent place. They decided
to call on the interior design firm FX Studio par Clairoux to transform
the rustic cottage into a peaceful retreat for the whole family. Their
dream renovation project was about to come true.
Understanding the clients’ wishes
Transforming the cottage into a primary residence that is both warm
and contemporary:
- a welcoming space for hosting a large family
- a restful place for contemplating nature
A trusting relationship had already developed between the clients and
the interior design firm because they had already worked together on
an earlier project. This fact allowed FX Studio par Clairoux to suggest
a highly contemporary design from the very beginning.
The first idea was to inundate the interior with natural light and work
with soft, airy textures to create a calming, peaceful atmosphere.
Northern white cedar—a local tree species—was the basis for the
colouration and choice of materials. With time, this wood develops a
silvery hue on the outside while retaining its blond colouring inside.
Using it for both exterior siding and certain structural elements, such
as the staircase, the main beam and the living room ceiling, amplifies
the project’s overall impression of harmony.
www.fxstudiodesign.com
Photo credit: Julien Perron-Gagné
5