Project: Berges Grises House
Architecture: Matière Première Architecture
Contractor: Habitation DLC
Location: Chicoutimi, Quebec, Canada
Area: 450 m2
Year: 2023
Photo Credits: Ian Balmorel
Matière Première Architecture unveils Berges Grises House, a unique home in Quebec’s picturesque Saguenay region. This project blends architecture, ecological awareness, and warm design, balancing with the Fjord-du-Saguenay’s natural landscape.
Site and Design Inspiration
The triangular-shaped site, bordered by various constraints, slopes towards a shoreline with rocks smoothed by tides. Architect Etienne Chaussé explains, “The name ‘Berges Grises’ is inspired by these landscapes sculpted by nature and embodies our vision of architecture that contemplates its environment.” The site’s topography, with a lateral slope and a more pronounced incline towards the water, significantly influenced the design. The team also had to preserve privacy while including a right-of-way to an adjacent project.
Evolving Design Concept
Initially, the design concept involved a U-shaped structure aimed at orienting the house towards the rear, creating a private outdoor area. However, due to the triangular plot, the design evolved into an expanded H shape, with two lateral bars aligning with the parcel lines, opening up the backyard to the breathtaking landscape. Berges Grises comprises three distinct volumes, covering approximately 4,500 sq. ft. over two levels. The first volume houses the ground floor and upper level, including bedrooms, suites, and a garage. The second volume accommodates the ground and garden levels, with a living area on the ground level and a “mancave” at the garden level. A third transverse brick element connects these volumes, aligning with the design’s angles. The exterior features cedar cladding and elongated brickwork, which will naturally patinate over time, giving it a timeless character.
Urban Concept in a Forest Setting
The clients, a young couple, envisioned integrating eclectic elements with an emphasis on longevity. They chose red oak finishes, white mosaic, metro-style ceramic tiles for the living area, and a frosted glass and brass light fixture above the kitchen island, reflecting an urban restaurant design in a forest setting. At the heart of the project lies an oversized living room, serving as a connection hub with an all-round view of the house and outdoors. A massive fireplace anchors the space, with a built-in library on the opposite brick wall. An architectural staircase of floating wooden boards leads to the upper level. The layout allows for extensive window space, providing generous lighting while facing the intimate courtyard, which features a relaxation area and a pool.
Materiality and Environmental Sensitivity
Materiality is central to Berges Grises, integrating the clients’ desires and local building traditions. The outdoor cedar finish adds elegance and durability, while elongated brickwork anchors the building. The charcoal-colored steel roof and extensive fenestration add a contemporary touch. Environmental sensitivity was paramount in construction. Prefabricated frame construction reduced work duration and minimized the impact on the native plant context and coastal ecosystem. Sedimentation barriers were also installed to protect the shoreline.
Integration with Surroundings
The design aligns with a concurrent project on a neighboring site, the Sur Le Ruisseau project. Both projects share a beige, earthy, linear brick exterior, creating a sense of continuity while preserving their distinctive formal languages. This balance encapsulates the essence of Berges Grises – respecting its surroundings while affirming its presence on the Fjord’s horizon.
In conclusion, Berges Grises House by Matière Première Architecture showcases a blend of innovative design and environmental respect, creating a unique and serene living space in Quebec’s Saguenay region.
