La Maraude illustrates a contemporary interpretation of Quebec’s architectural traditions. The simplicity of its forms, the use of durable materials, and its intimate relationship with nature reflect a deep respect for Quebec’s built heritage. The house is part of a sustainable approach, in harmony with its environment, while meeting contemporary expectations of comfort and functionality. More than just a place to live, it is a celebration of Quebec identity and its close connection to the forest.

Located on a vast site along the Maskinongé River in Outaouais, the mandate was to design a house that would integrate seamlessly into the surrounding forest. Rather than positioning the house directly along the river, the intention was to create an intimate place in dialogue with the forest, as part of a broader vision involving the creation of a network of small, meaningful spaces distributed across the site. Each family member is invited to shape their own personalized place of retreat. Some are already established, others will follow, with the house serving as the base camp.

The design draws inspiration from Quebec vernacular architecture, with its simple rectangular geometries, steep gable roofs designed to prevent snow accumulation, and a sequence of outbuildings with varying alignments. The exterior materiality echoes this heritage through the use of natural cedar shingles and a metal roof—two materials that are both durable and functional. Designed with particular attention to simplicity, functionality, and respect for traditional codes, La Maraude embodies a successful dialogue between contemporary architecture and local traditions.

The house is composed of three distinct volumes, offering a gradation of privacy and varied connections to the landscape. The first pavilion, the smallest, contains the main entrance and service spaces. It is composed of compact, functional rooms with a focused opening to the exterior at the entry hall. The second, more expansive volume houses the living spaces. Its high ceilings and large glazed openings allow natural light to penetrate deeply into the home, creating a sense of transparency throughout the building. This arrangement establishes a constant visual connection with the forest, allowing the house to breathe, capture seasonal light variations, and reinforce the feeling of being immersed in nature.

Along this luminous axis, a north-facing terrace oriented toward the mountain creates an intimate and sheltered space, while a second terrace to the south opens onto the landscape descending toward the river, offering a broad and sunlit setting.

The third pavilion, more secluded and intimate, accommodates the bedrooms. Built over two levels due to the site’s topography, its windows are more modest and carefully placed, framing specific views of the forest and creating ever-changing scenes throughout the seasons.