Minimalissimo

Snow Owl

architecture

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Location
Morin-Heights, Quebec, Canada
Architecture
Atelier L'Abri
Construction
Invesco Habitation
Photography
Raphaël Thibodeau

L'Abri is an architecture and construction firm based in Montreal. The workshop specialises in ecological, healthy, and sustainable construction and their project Schnee-Eule (Snow Owl) is a minimalist forest dwelling outside of the village of Morin-Heights, Quebec.

The design language of the chalet is borrowed from Austrian Alpine architecture, an inspiration that also lends itself to the project's name. Schnee-Eule is the German word for the snow owl, a white bird of prey that is particularly well adapted to winter. The white wood cladding, installed vertically, camouflages the project in the winter landscape. Its horizontal subdivisions are reminiscent of traditional alpine huts, as is the double-pitched roof with its large overhangs.

The interior is characterised by a calm and warm atmosphere, with large bay windows giving way to the contemplation of nature and plays of light. With a woodstove at its heart, the living area invites relaxation. Small moments complete the picture, including a reading nook in the master bedroom. Unique, and specifically made for the house, the furniture was designed and handmade by Inat, a Montreal-based woodworker.

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