A second home in the Laurentian forest

The Hauts-Bois House, designed by Montreal-based architecture firm Thellend Fortin Architectes, is a second home nestled in the Laurentian forest of Canada. Its simple geometrical composition highlights the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Photo credit: Charles Lanteigne

The house follows the natural slope of the site, with its asymmetric silhouette emphasizing the topography. Changes in floor levels ensure smooth transitions between indoor living areas and adjacent outdoor spaces. The cantilevered main suite asserts its presence while accentuating the rugged terrain it overlooks. With large picture windows on each side, the elongated volume maximizes the connection to nature. A sequence of interconnected rooms offers cross-views—landscape on one side, sunlight on the other—while circulation paths parallel to openings guide the gaze outward.

Inside, a single wood tone creates a discreet backdrop, emphasizing framed views of the landscape. Walls, furniture, and built-in furnishings follow a pattern set by the rhythm of openings, with each room framing a changing seasonal scene like a living picture.

About Thellend Fortin Architectes

Founded by architects Louis Thellend and Lisa-Marie Fortin, the practice embraces an innovative approach to architecture, its relationship with context, and its environmental impact. Their creative vision explores the dynamics of contemporary life, with projects ranging from local to international scales, consistently demonstrating sensitivity and insight into current architectural issues.