Modern house with large glass windows and white cladding surrounded by trees.

A modern multi-level house with large glass windows and white cladding, set against a backdrop of trees and greenery.

Modern home with white angular design surrounded by autumn trees near a lake.
Modern white house with flat roof surrounded by autumn trees, featuring large windows and outdoor seating with a fire pit.
Modern two-story house with large windows, wooden ceiling, and terrace with glass railings, surrounded by trees.
Modern house with large glass windows and white exterior surrounded by autumn trees.
Modern house with large glass windows and cantilevered design in a wooded area.
Modern house with white cladding and large windows, outdoor patio with fire pit and seating, autumn trees in background.
Modern house exterior with covered patio and fire pit at dusk.
Modern house with white cladding, angular rooflines, and a covered outdoor area with a fire pit and seating, surrounded by trees.
Interior space with glass doors, wooden bench, fur throw, potted plants, and view of pathway and trees.
Modern living room with sectional sofa, fireplace, and large windows overlooking forest.
Modern interior with large windows, fireplace, and contemporary furniture.
Interior view of a modern dining and kitchen area featuring a long wooden table, pendant lights, large windows, and a wooden ceiling.
Interior of a modern kitchen featuring two sculptural islands, wooden cabinetry, and a large window.
Modern kitchen and dining area with large windows, a white kitchen island, and wooden furniture.
Modern kitchen with two islands, large windows displaying autumn trees, and a wooden ceiling.
Modern kitchen interior with wooden cabinetry, central island, and large windows.
Modern kitchen with wooden cabinets, white island, and decorative backsplash.
Interior view of a staircase with wooden steps and a white railing, adjacent to a wall with built-in wooden shelves and cabinets.
Bedroom with large windows overlooking a lake and autumn trees, featuring a bed and a modern fireplace.
Modern bathroom with large window, freestanding bathtub, and double sink vanity.
Modern bathroom with glass shower, floating vanity, and large mirror.
Modern bedroom with large window, built-in desk, and shelving, featuring wooden flooring and a window seat.
Interior hallway with built-in bunk beds and shelves, featuring modern design elements and recessed lighting.
Interior room with bunk beds, a cabinet with a model airplane, and a seating area with cushions.
Modern interior with a built-in entertainment unit and large TV.
Curved wooden slat walls in a modern interior with a doorway leading to a room with dark stone surfaces.
Interior view of a modern sauna and bathroom area with wooden paneling and a round sink.
Modern home gym with large windows, wooden flooring, and exercise equipment including a rowing machine, suspension trainers, exercise balls, and step platforms.
Mudroom with wooden cabinets, coat racks, and a bench, with a window showing an outdoor view.
Modern mudroom with glass door, sink, wooden ceiling, bench, and organized shelves with jackets and shoes.
Modern bathroom interior featuring a terrazzo sink, backlit oval mirror, and wall-mounted light fixture.

Story

A modern architectural marvel inspired by the grace of an albatross. Set against the rugged backdrop of Québec’s Laurentians, The Albatross by MU Architecture emerges as a compelling architectural narrative. The residence is positioned near Lake Xavier, where its fragmented composition and dramatic cantilevers mimic the expansive wings of its avian namesake. This design strategy allows it to nestle naturally into the steep terrain. The home’s layout is a testament to thoughtful spatial organization, balancing expansive social areas with intimate private retreats. Expansive glazing and elevated terraces ensure that every room maintains a strong dialogue with the surrounding landscape, offering panoramic views of the lake and forest.

Design Highlights

Fragmented Composition: The residence is divided into layered volumes that follow the natural slope, softening its scale. Cantilevered Terraces: These project outward like wings, creating a sensation of floating above the hillside. Material Palette: White wood cladding blends seamlessly with the winter landscape, while wood surfaces inside add warmth. Interior Layout: Large social spaces are complemented by quieter zones, with custom built-ins maintaining visual continuity. Sculptural Islands: The kitchen features two irregularly shaped islands, enhancing both functionality and visual interest. Wellness Area: A spa-inspired zone with sauna, shower, and cold plunge, extending outdoors to a hot tub and firepit.

Key Facts

Feature Description
Location La Conception, Québec, Canada
Architect MU Architecture
Structural Engineer Génibois
Landscape Architect Josiane Léger
Year 2026
Status Built
The Albatross the harmonious integration of architecture with its natural surroundings, offering a serene yet dynamic living experience.

Technical Summary

Finishes

  • Exterior Cladding: White wood cladding that blends with the snow-covered landscape in winter.
  • Interior Surfaces: Wood surfaces wrap the interior, creating warmth against the sleek architectural shell.

Materials

  • Glass — Used extensively for windows and doors to provide expansive views.
  • Wood — Used for interior surfaces, cabinetry, and ceilings to add warmth.
  • Concrete — Used for lower level walls and garden area.

Construction / Systems

  • Structural System: The home features dramatic cantilevers and layered volumes that follow the natural slope of the site.

Products

  • Doors and Windows — Alumilex — by Alumilex (Used for the home's doors and windows.)
  • Wood Cladding — Juste du Pin — by Juste du Pin (Used for the home's exterior cladding.)

Palette / Lighting

  • Colors: white, wood tones
  • Lighting: Natural light is maximized through expansive glazing, and integrated lighting is used in terraces and interiors.

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