This Wood-Clad Home Is Built Into a Serene Mountain Slope
Nestled into the mountainous terrain of Shefford, Québec, this simply constructed residence is elegant and strong in expression.
Designed by Montreal–based Atelier General Architecture, The Rock derives from the concept of landscape and dwelling as one.
That said, this dark, wood clad home is designed to look as if it was an extension of the mountain. Resembling the rocky forms that fill the landscape, the sheared shape cantilevers face toward the terrain, landing quietly on slender columns.
Supported on thin columns, the main volume hovers above the graveled entry, reaching out into the surroundings.
Photo: Adrien Williams
Large openings provide visual connections from all areas of the home, extending the livable space out into nature.
Photo: Adrien Williams
Get the Pro Newsletter
What’s new in the design world? Stay up to date with our essential dispatches for design professionals.
Entered from below, a wood clad staircase leads to the main floor where spaces flow freely under a flat, floating roof with exposed laminated wood structure. In contrast to the exterior, the interior is bright, white, and light-filled.
The hovered volume places minimal impact on the site, respecting the topography and natural conditions.
Photo: Adrien Williams
The main living areas provide close relation to the site through framed views and interior-to-exterior connections. A wooden terrace, which follows the profile of the topography, draws the occupants out and into the landscape.
The dark-stained exterior cladding stands in contrast to the light wood decking and warm interiors.
Photo: Adrien Williams
The exterior deck gracefully meanders its way around the rock formations.
Photo by Adrien Williams
Minimalist interiors balance with the activity of the wild landscape. Polished concrete floors, light wood, white walls, black framed windows, and subtle accents create an ideal muted palette for the vegetated setting.
Large spans of glazing frame views outwards to the surrounding landscape as one circulates through the home.
Photo by Adrien Williams
Through layers of protection and connection provided by glass, screen, openings, and wood, the home seamlessly becomes part of the serene mountain setting.
The kitchen is framed by two white walls which link to the adjoining spaces.
Photo by Adrien Williams
A customized wine glass and pot holder hangs above the island.
Photo by Adrien Williams
Shop the Look
Herman Miller Nelson Cigar Bubble Pendant
While outfitting his office, architect and Herman Miller design director George Nelson discovered a silk-covered Swedish hanging lamp that he coveted but found too expensive. He then recalled seeing a photo in the paper of Liberty ships being mothballed “by having the decks covered with netting and then being sprayed with a self-webbing plastic,” which got him thinking. “And then, Whammo!” Inspiration struck, and by the next night, Nelson had designed his first Bubble Lamp (1952) by spinning a skeleton of steel wires on a turntable and shooting it with translucent plastic until it was covered in a smooth, washable film. “When you put a light in it, it glowed,” he said. This is the authentic Bubble Lamp, produced in partnership with the George Nelson Foundation. Bulb (not included): LED, CFL or incandescent; E26 base; 60W max for small, 150W max for others. UL Listed. Made in U.S.A.
ShopAlessi Pots & Pans Wide Saucepan
Designed by Jasper Morrison for Alessi, the Pots&Pans wide saucepan (2006) features a wide surface ideal for evenly heating at varying heats. From Alessi's "A di Alessi" brand, which includes their "most democratic and accessible products." Photo Courtesy of Amazon
ShopA custom-designed wooden dining table is surrounded by chairs acquired at Saint-Michel Flea Market in Montreal. IKEA pendant lamps decorate the space.
Photo by Adrien Williams
A Mason Corbeil Sofa provides the perfect lounge setting to relax and enjoy the views of the treetops.
Photo by Adrien Williams
White, hexagon tiles frame the shower and tub in the master bath. On the opposite wall, full-height glazing connects the users directly with the landscape.
Photo by Adrien Williams
Full-height glazing provides a direct visual connection to the exterior foliage.
Photo by Adrien Williams
A screened-in porch with full-height openings projects into the surrounding landscape. The light wood floors contrast with the dark stained walls and ceiling.
Photo by Adrien Williams
The home appears as if it is carved into the mountainside, serving as one with the trees and rock formations.
Photo by Adrien Williams
A look at the lower-level floor plan, including the main entry, two bedrooms, and a full bath.
Here's the upper-level floor plan that includes the master suite, kitchen, dining area, and living room.
Project Credits
Architect of Record: Atelier General Architecture
Builder / General Contractor: Constructions Bolvin
Structural Engineer: Lateral
Lighting Design: Luminaire Authentik
Interior Design: Atelier General Architecture
Cabinetry Design / Installation: Ébénisterie Gaston Chouinard
Published
Last Updated
Topics
Home Tours