Project: Peace Retreat House
Architecture: Quinzhee Architecture
Contractor: Nomad construction
Design Team: Guillaume Fafard, Gabriel Lemelin
Engineer: MA-TH Solutions d’ingénierie
Location: Lac-Beauport, Canada
Area: 48 m2
Year: 2024
Photo Credits: Adrien Williams
Peace Retreat House, designed by Quinzhee Architecture, is a rustic sanctuary near the summit of Le Maelström Mountain in Lac-Beauport. Surrounded by dense forests and sloping terrain, the retreat serves as both the starting and ending point for several hiking trails. It provides an immersive experience for outdoor enthusiasts while embracing the raw beauty of its natural surroundings.
A Design Rooted in Landscape
The architectural concept revolves around the connection between two distinct but complementary volumes. The first, a metal-clad structure covered in eastern townshipper tiles, rises over three levels and adapts to the natural slope of the terrain. This parallelogram-shaped form houses the primary living spaces and features a rooftop terrace with a spa. Generous parapets shield the spa from the wind and provide privacy.
The second volume takes the form of a large wooden bleacher, covered in open-jointed cedar slats, extending southeast like an observatory. This expansive stair-like structure connects different levels of the metal volume, casting shade over the interiors while serving as an outdoor gathering space. The design encourages moments of rest, reflection, and interaction with the surrounding landscape.
Peace Retreat House as an Immersive Experience
Visitors enter by passing beneath the wooden structure, where they can access either the retreat itself or the bleachers leading to the forest trails. The ground floor contains the more private areas, with bedrooms separated by a centrally positioned bathroom. The open-jointed cedar ceiling extends visually from the interior to the exterior, strengthening the home’s seamless connection to nature.
On the upper level, the living spaces are accessible via an interior ladder and an exterior staircase integrated into the bleacher structure. This level reveals a balcony with sweeping mountain and river views, as well as an overlook toward the dense forest below. The wooden framework that wraps the home creates a warm contrast to the raw metal, reinforcing the retreat’s balance between rugged durability and natural beauty.
A Harmonious Blend of Comfort and Wilderness
Peace Retreat House exemplifies a sensitive approach to contemporary architecture, where structure and environment exist in harmony. By combining protective shelter with open-air elements, the design allows residents to engage with nature while enjoying a sense of seclusion. The retreat’s integration into the sloping landscape, thoughtful material selection, and emphasis on natural light and views make it a perfect getaway for those seeking both adventure and tranquility.
