Design Buy Build Issue 39 2019 | Page 26

Up There! - ESPACE VITAL Architecture ESPACE VITAL architecture is proud to announce the completion of a new residence located in the Township of Potton. Perched up high near the edge of a steep slope, this contemporary dwelling creates a contrast and a duality between opaque areas hidden from sight and living areas bathed in light. An ideal getaway for resourcing oneself in intimacy, this house is a perfect representation of ESPACE VITALs trademarks with its minimalist design, balanced with warmth and its aerial roof overhang. Nested on a site overlooking Lake Memphrémagog, near Owl’s Head ski resort, this property represented the ideal location for the owners. The couple, living in Montreal, were looking for such a piece of paradise near the mountains and the lake to enjoy winter activities during the cold season, as well as boating during warmer months. They wanted a house big enough to entertain friends and family while having all their living quarters on the same floor. When ESPACE VITAL’s architects visited the site for the first time, they realized that the major challenge would be to design a layout in a relatively narrow strip of ground bordered by the cliff and the road. “The area in which we could implement the house was not very big” explains Paul Faucher, architect and associate at ESPACE VITAL. “Furthermore, even if the road is not very busy, we wanted to design a curved driveway to maximize intimacy and create discovery when approaching the residence” he adds. The concept is basically a two faced building with the street façade being opaque and the opposite façade being fully transparent and in contact with nature. This maximizes the cocoon effect desired+ by the owners. Thus, the driveway gives access to the enclosed volumes of the garage and the main building enhancing the surprise effect. Upon entering, the large vestibule does not allow to right away fully appreciate the layout that is completely open towards the scenery. It is only once inside the main living spaces of the main floor that one discovers the spectacular views towards the forest and the lake. 26