Nestled within the enchanting forests of the Eastern Townships in Sutton, the Three Streams House (M3R) designed by Naturehumaine occupies a picturesque five-acre site crisscrossed by three meandering creeks. This remarkable natural feature played a pivotal role in the clients’ decision to establish their permanent residence in this idyllic location. The design of the house, adorned with rich red wood cladding, is guided by several key principles, starting with the clients’ desire to position it gracefully on a gentle slope where the streams converge.
This thoughtful placement not only enhances the home’s connection to the landscape but also allows for a garden level that seamlessly integrates with the lush vegetation surrounding the watercourses. Elevated on stilts, the house is thoughtfully divided into three distinct sections: spacious living areas on the ground floor, a carport and workshop, and inviting guest accommodations on the garden level. The clients envisioned an entrance that would be nothing short of extraordinary, highlighting the site’s inherent beauty.
Access to the home is achieved through a charming covered passage that links the carport/workshop to the sloping terrain, facilitating a smooth transition between the constructed environment and the natural landscape. As visitors approach the house, they are drawn to the intricate structural details, including the striking vertical scarlet-red wood cladding. This design choice pays homage to the historic covered bridges and barns of the Eastern Townships, which are often painted in the iconic hue known as ‘red cedar.’
A welcoming vestibule greets visitors, guiding them through a linear passage to the master suite and main living areas. The spacious master bedroom boasts a serene meditation area, complete with a glass corner window that frames picturesque views of the nearby streams. A thoughtfully positioned walk-in closet at the back ensures an uncluttered ambiance, enhancing the room’s tranquility. The primary bathroom is a sanctuary of relaxation, featuring a built-in bath that sits against a large window, inviting the beauty of the forest indoors.
The living spaces, characterized by their understated materiality, foster a deep connection with the surrounding nature. White oak built-in furniture, polished concrete floors, and wooden ceiling cladding create a harmonious backdrop for the stunning views of the wooded landscape. A generously glazed corner of the living area seamlessly opens onto a terrace, providing a breathtaking overlook of the three streams and extending the living space into the embrace of the natural setting.
On the garden level, a guest studio and a massage room offer private accommodations, complete with access to a small, secluded terrace for visitors to unwind. A winding, vegetated path meanders gently from the streams to the house entrance, allowing residents to immerse themselves in the refreshing sounds and sights of the natural environment. The Three Streams House (M3R) by Naturehumaine architectural studio presents a serene living environment, skillfully blending rustic materials with contemporary architectural language, reflecting the vernacular architecture of the Estrie region.