La Barque is a hyperactive family’s peaceful shelter. Located on the shores of Lake Ouareau in Saint-Donat, the house was inspired by the owners’ love for the northern landscapes. Under the curved ceiling of the house, reminiscent of a boat hull, its serene interior atmosphere captures the calm of the surrounding hills and provides the family with a place to catch its breath between two ski slopes or two waterski runs.
The site’s characteristics strongly influenced the architectural concept. Nestled between a road and the lake, the house shelters itself from un- wanted attention on the street side with its dislocated façade that extends into an exterior wall hiding a barbecue and a pizza oven. Lake side, it opens itself up to nature. From the main entrance, one can feel the landscape pouring into the house through the carefully planned openings.
Photography by Adrien Williams.