Nestled in the serene rural landscape of Bromont, Canada, the Des Lauriers House exemplifies a harmonious blend of traditional architectural elements and nature-inspired design. Crafted by Paul Bernier Architecte, the residence comprises three gabled volumes with timeless materials that evoke a sense of tranquility and reflection. The house was envisioned as a sanctuary for residents and visitors, inviting them to step back from the hectic pace of life and immerse themselves in the beauty of the natural surroundings.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Architect: Paul Bernier Architecte
Location: Bromont, Canada
Architecture Style: Traditional gabled volumes with modern integration
Materials: Brick, stone, cedar, glass, white oak, lime plaster
Purpose: Residential sanctuary for reflection and tranquility
The architectural composition of the Des Lauriers House features three distinct structures: the main residence, a garage with accompanying guest quarters, and a cedar-clad barn. These structures are unified by their simple forms and a material palette that includes brick, stone, and cedar, providing an enduring presence within the landscape. Extending outward from the foundation, stone walls integrate the property seamlessly into its environment, anchoring it to the land. A glass passage connects the main house and garage, creating a visible distinction between the two forms while serving as the welcoming entryway.
Paul Bernier’s design philosophy for the Des Lauriers House was to create a peaceful and contemplative atmosphere that mirrored the emotions the team experienced when they first encountered the site. The west end of the garage features an open-air kitchen and dining area under expansive cedar ceilings, encapsulated by solid brick walls. This space offers views of the mountains through a wide opening while maintaining privacy and diffusing sunlight with a brick screen on the south side. Cleverly designed masonry includes a slot for heat release during summer months.
Inside, the calm ambiance is reinforced with a restrained use of materials such as white oak, lime plaster, and stone. The glass entry hall leads visitors to the main living area, separated by a wooden partition that gently guides movement. This central living space reaches the full height of the gabled structure, where horizontal openings provide access to terraces, blurring the lines between indoors and outdoors. The lime-plastered vaulted ceiling overhead contributes to the serene character of the interior, enhancing the sense of spaciousness and light.
Exterior materials were meticulously chosen for their durability and ability to weather gracefully over time. Brick, stone, steel, and cedar not only serve aesthetic purposes but also instill the home with a feeling of permanence. The deep-set openings, masonry pillars, and robust stone walls further ground the architecture, imbuing it with a look and feel that seems as natural and enduring as the landscape it inhabits. These elements work together to create a residence that is both a testament to architectural craftsmanship and a tribute to the natural world.
The Des Lauriers House stands as an exemplar of architecture that respects and celebrates its environment. The thoughtful design conceived by Paul Bernier Architecte ensures that each moment spent within the house or surrounding grounds is an opportunity for reflection, connection, and appreciation of nature’s beauty. With its simple yet profound design, the residence serves as a peaceful retreat, offering respite and inspiration to all who visit or reside within its walls. For further details, Paul Bernier Architecte’s website offers more insights into their architectural vision.
