In harmony with nature
In the scenic village of Petite-Rivière-Saint-François, Québec, Thellend Fortin Architectes crafted a masterpiece known as Long Horizontals. Perched on a dramatic cliff, this home gracefully overlooks the St. Lawrence River estuary, truly embodying the essence of the region. Its design honors the natural landscape, subtly revealing itself to the street while unfolding towards expansive river views.
For more captivating ways architecture can blend into its surroundings, explore how solitary bees are captured in stunning portraits by a National Geographic photographer, showcasing nature’s beauty up close.
Design that flows in the breathtaking province
Built to echo its surroundings, the house features long horizontal lines that enhance the panoramic scenery of this beautiful area. Inside, this design ethos is evident as living spaces seamlessly transition towards the river horizon, culminating in a stunning dining room surrounded by glass.
The entrance, combining concrete and wood, introduces the material palette that defines the home. As you step inside, concrete floors meet wood ceilings, guiding you into an open-plan living area that connects the living room, kitchen, and dining space in a harmonious flow.
A warm and inviting living room
Adjacent to the entryway, the living room incorporates built-in wood shelving above the couch, providing warmth and practical storage. The shelves continue the room’s wood finish, complementing the concrete fireplace on the opposing wall. This blend of materials creates a welcoming environment typical of the area.
Open connections
A sleek steel guardrail delineates the staircase descending to the bedrooms below, integrating seamlessly into the open living space without creating visual barriers. This open design is a hallmark of the region’s architecture.
Contemporary kitchen design
In the kitchen, light wood and white cabinetry create a cohesive and modern look. Combined with floor-to-ceiling windows, these elements ensure the space is bathed in natural light and visually connected to the surrounding landscape, making it yet another feature of this striking locale.
A dining room with a view
Positioned next to the kitchen, the dining room’s high ceiling and glass walls on three sides provide a pavilion-like ambiance. It juts out from the main structure, granting breathtaking vistas that become part of every dining experience in this part of Canada.
Uninterrupted vistas
Sliding doors lead to a deck, where a glass railing offers unobstructed views of the river. Inside or out, the connection to the St. Lawrence River remains strong, with transparent design elements preserving the natural beauty of Québec.
For further inspiration on stunning natural scenery, discover the mesmerizing sand structures captured by Joshua Novicki along Lake Michigan‘s shores.
Simplicity in the bathroom
A bathroom showcases clean lines with a freestanding white tub against a grey-tiled wall. The room embraces simplicity, with shelving for storage and a window offering natural light and privacy options.
By extending the living spaces toward the horizon, Thellend Fortin Architectes have made the stunning natural setting an integral part of the home. The dining room, in particular, serves as a transparent bridge to the landscape, embracing and showcasing the Québec surroundings, a true testament to the charm of this enchanting province.
Photography by Charles Lanteigne | Architects and Designers: Thellend Fortin Architectes | Project manager: Lisa-Marie Fortin and Louis Thellend | Structural Engineer: Paul-Henry Boutros, NCK inc.
Source: contemporist.com
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Long Horizontals home located?
The Long Horizontals home is located in the scenic village of Petite-Rivière-Saint-François, Québec.
What materials define the entrance of the home?
The entrance of the home combines concrete and wood, introducing the material palette that defines the rest of the house.
What is a notable feature of the dining room in the home?
The dining room is positioned next to the kitchen, has high ceilings, and features glass walls on three sides, providing a pavilion-like ambiance with breathtaking vistas.