Réflexion – Maisons Miroirs

New construction Residential2021

The Charlevoix region, known for its rugged terrain and spectacular landscapes, recently welcomed a new tourism accommodation project. Réflexion, nestled in the heart of the forest, consists of two distinctly contemporary and minimalist units.

Réflexion - Maisons Miroirs by Bourgeois / Lechasseur architectes

These identical yet contrasting chalets were built on a flat site near the Massif de Petite-Rivière Saint-François, one of Quebec’s most popular winter resorts. Rather than offering vacationers breathtaking views, the architectural approach emphasizes an intimate connection with the surrounding forest. The design is inspired by a desire to create a place that is barely perceptible among the trees.

  • Équipe de conception : Olivier Bourgeois, Régis Lechasseur, Alexandre Côte, Valérie Gauthier
  • Entrepreneur : Charlevoix Acoustique
  • Repères préventifs : Feather Friendly
  • Photographes : Adrien Williams / Maxime Brouillet
Réflexion - Maisons Miroirs by Bourgeois / Lechasseur architectes
A stone path, crossed by pedestrian trails, leads to the shared arrival and parking area. Not far from there, about fifty meters apart, are the two chalets, which face away from each other to better preserve their privacy. One faces East and the other West. ↓
Réflexion - Maisons Miroirs by Bourgeois / Lechasseur architectes
Each chalet features a long-glazed facade that, like a mirror, reflects the surrounding nature. ↓
Réflexion - Maisons Miroirs by Bourgeois / Lechasseur architectes
Subtly clad in dark-colored planks, the other three facades reinforce the sense of total immersion in the forest. ↓
Réflexion - Maisons Miroirs by Bourgeois / Lechasseur architectes
Each unit is accessed from the side. The entrance door seems to be drawn inward, a move that momentarily disrupts the orthogonality of the space. The dark-toned wall coverings and light pine ceilings meet on either side of the entrance wall, ensuring a seamless transition from the exterior to the interior. ↓
Réflexion - Maisons Miroirs by Bourgeois / Lechasseur architectes
To simplify the construction process, the project was designed using prefabrication. Each of the two units was divided into two modules, which were built in the workshop before being shipped to the site. ↓
Réflexion - Maisons Miroirs by Bourgeois / Lechasseur architectes
The assembly, though conceptually straightforward, encountered its share of challenges, particularly with the various mechanical systems. However, the operation proceeded smoothly thanks to meticulous coordination and the presence of skilled workers on site. Two specific tasks had to be completed on-site: pouring the radiant concrete floors and installing the two glazed facades. ↓
Réflexion - Maisons Miroirs by Bourgeois / Lechasseur architectes
Designed for a group of six people, each unit aims to be cozy, featuring a living area with a fireplace, two closed bedrooms, and a luxurious bathroom. Guests also have access to an outdoor spa. ↓
Réflexion - Maisons Miroirs by Bourgeois / Lechasseur architectes
Réflexion - Maisons Miroirs by Bourgeois / Lechasseur architectes
Réflexion - Maisons Miroirs by Bourgeois / Lechasseur architectes
Réflexion - Maisons Miroirs by Bourgeois / Lechasseur architectes
Réflexion - Maisons Miroirs by Bourgeois / Lechasseur architectes
Réflexion - Maisons Miroirs by Bourgeois / Lechasseur architectes
Réflexion - Maisons Miroirs by Bourgeois / Lechasseur architectes
Nature lovers and bird enthusiasts, the owners, who were drawn to the glass walls, were particularly attentive to preventing bird collisions. The solution? Simple, small markers placed on the glass panels, a product approved by the Audubon Society and various bird conservation groups. Barely noticeable to the human eye, these tiny markers are highly effective in significantly reducing collisions. ↓
Réflexion - Maisons Miroirs by Bourgeois / Lechasseur architectes
Réflexion - Maisons Miroirs by Bourgeois / Lechasseur architectes
The nostalgic call of nature and the cabin in the woods has always symbolized escape and freedom. However, today’s traveler also seeks comfort and poetry. The Réflexion project offers visitors a unique experience of total immersion in nature. ↓