Territoire Charlevoix is a unique eco-tourism project located in the Canadian wilderness of Quebec, between La Malbaie and Baie-Saint-Paul. Designed by Montreal-based architecture firm Atelier l'Abri and completed in 2022, the project consists of several minimalist cabins and communal structures spread across a rugged landscape. The core philosophy behind the design was to create a harmonious balance between nature and architecture, promoting a low-impact, intimate, and immersive experience for guests. The cabins at Territoire Charlevoix are a product of Atelier l'Abri's ongoing reflection on "our relationship with the territory and how to inhabit it". The five small, autonomous shelters offer comfortable immersion in nature, both in summer and winter. Their orientation and carefully chosen locations provide privacy and generous views of the natural surroundings. The cabins are elevated on slender legs, a design choice that minimizes their impact on the ground and avoids the need for heavy machinery for traditional foundations. This preserves the forest environment and limits deforestation. The design balances rusticity with modernity, using limited and efficient materials to create warm, functional spaces that encourage a slower pace of life. The Territoire Charlevoix project extends beyond just the sleeping cabins. The site also includes modules for communal areas, such as viewing platforms, shared kitchens, and a visitor center with a forest buvette. The facility operates year-round, allowing visitors to experience the region's diverse landscapes and activities throughout the seasons. Project credits Architect: Atelier l'Abri Project Team: Pia Hocheneder, Jérôme Codère, Francis Martel-Labrecque, Nicolas Lapierre Client: Territoire Charlevoix Construction: Construction Éclair Photography: Raphaël Thibodeau Location: La Malbaie, Québec, Canada Completion Year: 2022

The Kanata Cabin is a minimalist and pet-friendly rental retreat designed by Atelier l'Abri, located in Mont-Tremblant, Quebec. Commissioned by a client seeking a cozy, nature-immersed escape for themselves and their dog, the project blends functionality with an ultra-compact footprint. Affectionately dubbed "La Niche" (The Nook or Kennel) by its owners, the cabin's design features elements that evoke the image of a doghouse, such as its simple, gabled shape and arched doorway. Completed in 2024, the 60-square-meter (650-square-foot) cabin is distinguished by its understated elegance and minimalist design. It is part of the larger Kanata Tremblant estate, offering visitors a unique experience within a 3,000-acre wilderness area. An arched doorway frames views of the Boreal forest, while a high cathedral ceiling and natural light create a sense of spaciousness within the modest interior. The exterior is clad in horizontal wood slabs, which will weather to a silver tone over time, allowing the cabin to blend seamlessly with the surrounding deciduous forest. The use of 2x8 stud walls and bio-sourced cellulose fiber insulation also contributes to its energy efficiency and reduced carbon footprint. The design includes a screened porch, an efficient kitchen and living area, and an exterior hot tub, offering comfortable amenities for guests and their pets. The interior layout of the single-bedroom cottage is hyper-optimized for function and comfort. The open-plan living and kitchen area features an integrated arched nook within the kitchen cabinetry, providing a cozy space for both people and pets. Despite its size, the cabin feels airy and open thanks to the cathedral ceiling and strategic use of light. Refined interior details and custom furniture modules were included to maximize space while ensuring a refined experience. Project credits Architect: Atelier L'Abri Team: Charles-Édouard Dorion, Vincent Pasquier, Nicolas Lapierre, Francis M. Labrecque Construction: Hubert Construction Photography: Raphaël Thibodeau Client: Private Location: Mont-Tremblant, Amherst, Quebec, Canada Completion Year: 2024