Nestled in the heart of Quebec, Canada, 20 meters above the lake hovers a unique and innovative home called the Radical Quebec Cabin. Powered by solar units and heated by a high-efficiency wood stove, the cabin hovers over the landscape with two points of contact.
We love a sustainable home with a phenomenal view! How could this get even better?
Well, this cabin got it all because this extraordinary home is not just a cozy retreat for humans to reside, but it also serves as a habitat for endangered bats. The cabin’s design is focused on creating a habitat for bats, which are an essential part of the local ecosystem including pollinating plants and controlling insect populations.
The Kariouk Architects included several features that create a suitable habitat for bats throughout this bat-friendly heaven’s exterior and interior design. Featured in the exterior of the cabin are a rough-sawn cedar siding that provides a textured surface for bats to cling to and a series of grooves on the cabin’s roof which provides a safe roosting space for bats. Inside the cabin, there are several bat boxes located throughout the cabin’s interior. Providing a safe and secure space for bats to roost during the day. The bat boxes are located in strategic areas, including behind the wood stove and in the ceiling rafters to create a variety of roosting options for the bats.
Photos by: Scott Norsworthy
The home’s exterior is clad in charred cedar, a traditional Japanese technique called Shou Sugi Ban. This technique protects the wood from the elements and pests.
The home is situated in a beautiful and natural setting, surrounded by trees and a small stream. The large windows throughout the home provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape, creating a seamless connection between the interior and exterior.
The home is powered by solar panels and a battery bank, and also features a rainwater collection system for irrigation.
Overall, the Radical Quebec Cabin is a remarkable home that showcases the intersection of innovative design, sustainability, and conservation. It is a testament to the idea that architecture can not only be beautiful and functional but also serve as a platform for environmental stewardship.
The cabin’s interior features a minimalistic and contemporary design, with natural raw materials such as wood, exposed concrete, rough-swan wood, and glass. Creating an overall rustic yet modern atmosphere.
The cabin’s interior is recognizable by its open space, filled with natural light thanks to large windows that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding forest.
The interior of the home is designed to be simple, modern, and functional. The use of natural materials such as wood, concrete, and glass creates a warm and inviting atmosphere while also connecting the home to its natural surroundings.
Upon entering the home, you are greeted by an open-plan living area that includes the kitchen, dining, and living spaces. The living area features a cozy fireplace made of blackened steel, which adds a rustic touch to the modern space. Large windows on both sides of the living area provide natural light and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Such an open-plan living area is a popular design has become an increasingly popular trend in recent years. It involves creating a spacious and seamless living space that combines the kitchen, dining, and living areas into one open and connected space.
If you’re interested in creating an open-plan living area in your home, I have some tips to help you get started
The kitchen is designed with functionality in mind and takes up minimal space. It’s bleu color brings a beautiful contrast into the home adding freshness to the cool concrete and metal elements. As does the couch in the living room, which is a pop of yellow accompanied with a coffee table that brings back the color of the kitchen.
In between the living room and kitchen is the dining area situated, provided with a breath-taking view of the forest due to the large windows. The table and chairs are made of a darker wood than the other wood elements in the cabin, which adds a natural and organic touch of contrast to the space.
The pendant light above the open plan living space is made of blackened steel, which ties in with the fireplace in the living area. This product adds a sleek and modern feel to the natural elements.
Overall, the interior design of the Radical Quebec Cabin is a beautiful blend of modern and rustic elements, with a focus on natural materials and functionality. The design seamlessly connects the home to its natural surroundings, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere that is perfect for relaxation and contemplation.
In conclusion, the Radical Quebec Cabin is a beautiful and unique destination that seamlessly integrates sustainable design with wildlife conservation. Its stunning natural surroundings, cozy interior design, and year-round accommodations make it an ideal retreat for anyone looking to connect with nature and experience the beauty of Canada.
Are you inspired by the Radical Quebec Cabin and would like to create a similar space in your own home, then I have the following tips for you to incorporate similar elements as the Radical Quebec Cabin’s design and reflecting your personal style.