Rustic Grade: Embracing Minimalism in a Canadian Forest
Discover Rustic Grade, a minimalist chalet in Canada, designed by Maurice Martel. This south-facing refuge embodies harmony with nature, offering a journey of spiritual renewal through its simple yet sophisticated architecture. Integrating durable materials and optimizing space, this chalet stands as a testament to an economical yet comfortable dwelling amidst a lush forest and river soundscape.
A Tranquil Haven in the Heart of Nature
Rustic Grade offers more than just shelter; it’s a spiritual sanctuary. Designed by Maurice Martel in Canada, this chalet emerges as a minimalist cube from the lush forest floor. Its design ethos focuses on harmony with the natural environment, inviting occupants to a journey of self-discovery and contemplation. Maurice Martel skillfully reduces architecture to its essence, presenting a dwelling that beautifully marries simplicity with sophistication.
A Tranquil Haven in the Heart of Nature
Rustic Grade offers more than just shelter; it’s a spiritual sanctuary. Designed by Maurice Martel in Canada, this chalet emerges as a minimalist cube from the lush forest floor. Its design ethos focuses on harmony with the natural environment, inviting occupants to a journey of self-discovery and contemplation. Maurice Martel skillfully reduces architecture to its essence, presenting a dwelling that beautifully marries simplicity with sophistication.
Optimized Living, Maximized Comfort
Every detail in Rustic Grade speaks to thoughtful optimization. Its compact footprint mirrors an efficient yet comfortable living space, adhering to the principles of economical housing without compromising on luxury. The chalet cleverly limits the number of openings to enhance energy efficiency while making the most of natural light by orienting large bay windows southward. The resulting design not only offers spectacular river views but also ensures a constant, serene backdrop of flowing water sounds.
Architectural Symmetry and Material Harmony
A notable feature of Rustic Grade is its duality—two cubic volumes working in perfect synergy. A concrete exterior storage adds a modern touch to the natural setting, creating a defined entrance while preserving the integrity of the main living space. Inside, the ground floor’s open layout—with lime-painted walls and concrete floors—flows seamlessly into a living room that serves as a cozy vantage point to nature’s beauty outside. The minimalist kitchen, with its walnut furniture, blends Scandinavian and Japanese design elements, offering elegance and harmony.
A Nourishing Space for Mind and Body
Adding to the chalet’s retreat-like ambiance is an upper-level sauna designed for ultimate relaxation. Wall-to-wall glass enhances the connection with the surrounding nature, bathing the area in morning light. A modest ash staircase leads to an upper sanctuary of rustic grade spruce wood, enveloping the space in warmth and authenticity. This level hosts a multifunctional area that serves various needs, from an office to a guest dormitory, highlighted by the light and height of the space.
Intimate and Authentic Sleeping Quarters
The bedroom, nestled amongst spruce wood, offers an intimate connection with the forest. Raw wood framing and panoramic views transform the space into a cozy nest, pausing time and inviting serene contemplation. Rustic Grade stands as a beautifully self-constructed marvel, showcasing the elegance and practicality of design that harmonizes with both aesthetics and efficiency, all within a controlled budget.
Photography by Adrien Williams
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