This rural Quebec chalet from the 1960s faced demolition, but was salvaged and given a new life by Montreal-based studio Alain Carle Architecte, which sought to restore the home's original charm.

Located outside the town of St-Sauveur, in the Laurentians region, Résidence Maribou was in need of more than a facelift, as its structure, insulation, and cladding were all compromised. However, the owners couldn't bear to tear it down, so opted for an extensive overhaul.

"The home's charm pushed the owners to invest in renovating, rather than demolishing the home," said Alain Carle Architecte. "The goal was to maintain its original character, while modernising several aspects and improving its functionality."

The architects flipped the 225-square-metre home's layout, to locate the main entrance closer to the driveway. "The front entrance used to be on the upper level," said the firm. "Relocating it closer to the driveway caused a thorough reorganisation of the programme and interior circulation."
There are now fewer steps to climb to access the entrance, which is marked by a new arch built underneath the balcony.
The lower level, which is partially sunken into the landscape, includes a guest bedroom, family room, and service areas such as a laundry room and storage room.

A white steel staircase with wooden treads leads to the open communal areas. Here, the double-height space receives ample light from the glazed facade that opens out ...