Description
Le Grand Bercail is a luxurious vacation home located in La Malbaie, in the Charlevoix region (1 hour 30 minutes from Quebec City). Nestled in the heart of a breathtaking landscape, this villa feels suspended between sky and earth, with the St. Lawrence River stretching endlessly before you. The architect skillfully took advantage of the region's unique topography to create a home that seems to blend seamlessly with its surroundings.
Up to 12 adults can sleep in the chalet. Four capsule beds designed for children allow a total capacity of 16 guests (12 adults and 4 children).
Sleeping arrangements:
- 1 king bed
- 1 king bed
- 1 queen bed + 1 single bunk bed
- 1 queen bed + 1 single bunk bed
- 4 single capsule beds in the basement
- 2 daybeds upstairs
In November 2021, the architects visited luxurious rental homes on this rocky cape overlooking La Malbaie in Charlevoix. Cantilevers, glass walls, suspended terraces, green roofs, and embedded residences—these architect-designed homes are full of creativity. How can one build a rental villa that naturally integrates with Charlevoix's dramatic, rugged landscapes? How can one design a warm environment for families while minimizing its carbon footprint?
With its large gallery overlooking the river and its majestic metal roof, Le Grand Bercail feels almost timeless. A modern Québécois home, it is both comforting and striking. Positioned to maximize solar gain in winter and enhance views year-round, it uses generous roof overhangs to reduce overheating during heatwaves. Its highly insulated walls, roof, and windows (40% above required standards), along with excellent airtightness (0.35 ACH), ensure the home stays cool in summer and warm in winter. Its delicate placement among the trees and its palette inspired by boreal tones give the impression that it has always been part of the landscape.
Designed to accommodate multiple families, the living space is organized around a festive central core with a double-height ceiling open to the living area and the surrounding scenery. At the back, the kitchen offers both a panoramic view and all the necessary amenities. The living room is nestled between a warm clay brick wall on the bedroom side and a glass-paneled wooden partition on the dining side. Slightly set apart for lively gatherings, guests seated at the table enjoy dual views: La Malbaie to the right and the river straight ahead. The layout flows seamlessly into the veranda, the gallery, and the spa, before opening onto the deep blue horizon.
The bedrooms, grouped into parent/children clusters, are located in a separate wing near the entrance. Accessible via a stunning Douglas fir staircase with a sculpted wooden handrail, the mezzanine was designed as an additional playful retreat. It leads to a hidden bedroom-office tucked into the attic, offering a timeless escape. At the center of the gable wall, an impressive eight-foot-diameter oculus filters the cool light of the river and bathes much of the interior in natural light. Accessible via a closed staircase near the entrance, the garden level is a paradise for younger guests, featuring a small dormitory and a play area opening onto the surrounding woodland.
Both in its construction techniques and the quality of its finishes, the house showcases the craftsmanship of passionate local artisans—carpenters, woodworkers, sheet metal wo
CITQ Establishment No.315318