Lavoie

Complete renovation of a house located along the green road of Michel-Chartrand Park (formerly Regional Park), north of the Vieux-Longueuil, built in the 1990s during the final phase of one of many residential and woodland projects that have bolstered the socio-economic profile of the city. 

The Lavoie residence is a private home for a family of four. Originally of modest dimensions, the house was reconfigured to maximize functionality by installing, among other things, built-in furniture on the various floors. The openings were enlarged to allow for a generous flood of natural light in all spaces. 

An abundance of natural light, a rich palette of neutral colours, and the use of noble materials such as matte-finished wood, combine to provide a peaceful, balanced atmosphere to the interior environment, all in simplicity. T

he living space is based on an open-plan layout, which means that the living room flows into the dining room and the kitchen; the same longitudinal linearity extends outwards as well. The layout was designed so as to direct the views towards an outdoor environment rich in biodiversity, which encourages contemplation. By focusing on basics and simplicity, spaces were reduced to their bare minimum; as a result, volumes and materials are allowed to stand out and elegance is achieved through streamlining. 

OSB (Oriented strand board) panels were favoured as a floor covering in the basement for its thermal insulation and soundproofing qualities, as well as for its durability and low cost. The covering was left bare in order to allow light to reflect on its uneven surface, while giving the rooms a natural appearance. 

The swimming pool area, facing south, is bordered by a cedar fence, chosen for its durability, weather-ability and rot-proof properties.