Architektur | MU Architecture
MU Architecture - La Flèche Residence - Mont-Tremblant - Canada
| 2025-06-30 |     |
Sculptural Elegance in the Heart of Mont Tremblant
Nestled along the wild northern shores of Lake Tremblant, La Flèche is a Quebec residence that reimagines the mountain chalet with contemporary elegance. Noble, vernacular materials firmly anchor it into the rugged site, while its sharp, angular roofs carve boldly into the sky. More than a home, La Flèche was conceived as a family legacy—built to gather generations in this magical setting where alpine skiing gives way to water sports with the change of seasons. Wrapped in the Laurentian forest, the residence opens to the east with a breathtaking view of the vast lake and iconic Mont Tremblant.
Settling into the mountainside
Set on a dramatically steep site, the residence unfolds across two levels, totaling over 700 square meters. The compact, buildable area required blasting through rock, much of which was then repurposed for landscaping and retaining walls. Managing the runoff from the mountainside posed its own challenges, requiring careful water control around the 40-meter-long structure. The landscaping was designed to allow the lush natural vegetation to reclaim its place. Within the municipality of Lac-Tremblant-Nord, strict environmental regulations—such as a ban on visible exterior lighting—ensure the protection of local fauna, including the unafraid deer that roam freely and almost invite touch. True to its philosophy, MU Architecture crafted a roofline that suggests a vast residence, while concealing a lower garden level entirely from view. This understated approach, characteristic of the firm and its clientele, favors elegance and restraint over ostentation.
A sharply defined concept
Evoking an arrow or harpoon, the rooflines of La Flèche thrust skyward, their succession creating a dynamic rhythm. The distinctive architectural gesture—overlapping roofs that telescope upward—welcomes visitors with drama and flair. The razor-thin eaves and seamlessly integrated ventilation details give the home a precision-cut appearance. Like flesh beneath a protective shell, the warm wood slat soffits beneath the steel rooflines offer a welcoming, tactile quality. The body of the house is clad in wood and dry-stacked stone, their soft tones blending effortlessly with the surrounding forest and earth.
A refuge for family gathering
At the end of a long, meandering drive through the woods, the residence emerges as a tranquil retreat, ideal for extended family holidays. The experience begins at the covered entry terrace, cleverly concealed behind retractable insect screens, creating an extension of the indoor living space. Here, the view reveals itself in full splendor. A bit farther along, at the intersection of the garage volume and the main house, the entrance reveals itself, marked by a grand wooden door that seems to float between two expansive panes of glass. From this threshold, one already senses the warmth and comfort that await inside. The generous entrance hall, framed by slatted wood walls and works of art, immediately opens onto the main living areas and distant horizon. Wood-paneled closet doors discreetly conceal a long mudroom connected to the double garage—a thoughtful detail emblematic of the residence’s seamless, uninterrupted design language. Behind an elegant screen of angled, staggered wood slats, a glass-lined staircase leads downward, offering panoramic views toward the living room and inviting discovery of the lower-level spaces. The main living room, adorned with a monumental stone fireplace and wrapped in a warm wooden ceiling, beckons for rest and contemplation. Indeed, the views over Lake Tremblant and its namesake mountain are nothing short of spectacular.
Crafting warmth through geometry
At the heart of the living area, a custom illuminated cabinet—part buffet, part sculptural screen—divides the living room from the dining space, while enveloping the latter in intimacy. The materials and decorative elements draw on the warm, organic tones of the Laurentian forest. Completely clad in wood, the ceiling follows a complex triangulation that modulates the interior volume: lower and cozier above the living area, gradually rising over the kitchen to culminate in a dramatic skylight. The kitchen itself is expansive and bright, featuring a large island and a ribbon window above the counter that allows views of approaching guests. Hidden behind a paneled wall lies a full-service pantry kitchen with its own design character and equipment. The kitchen extends naturally to an outdoor terrace equipped with a barbecue, a Kamado, a dining area, and a lounge with an outdoor fireplace. These al fresco living spaces align with the main circulation axis of the home, connecting the far end of the terrace with the primary suite located on the same level.
Luxury in the forest
Discreetly integrated along the path to the master quarters, a hidden access leads to a full guest suite that opens onto a private view of the forest. The master suite itself offers a generous bedroom with a fireplace and sweeping views of the lake and Mont Tremblant. In the ensuite bathroom, open to the bedroom, a large, stone-textured shower evokes a carved-out grotto. The mirror is positioned to reflect the view, which is also visible from the freestanding tub. A walk-in closet with fabric-clad doors reminiscent of grand hotels and a private balcony complete the suite. The staircase—anchored by its glass guardrail—acts as a sculptural centerpiece, gradually revealing the full volume of the living space as one descends to the garden level. Below, three additional bedrooms, including a children's room with bunk beds, are arranged around a spacious family room. An adjacent game room, complete with bar and pool table, adds to the convivial atmosphere. In addition to a mechanical room, wine cellar, storage, and garage for off-road vehicles, the lower level also includes a wellness zone with a sauna and a fully equipped gym that opens to the outdoors.
In harmony with the forest’s spirit
The lower terrace, tucked into the mountainside, features a hot tub and an outdoor fire pit. The landscaping here is subtle and refined, combining native plantings with delicate pathways that preserve the wild essence of the site. A stairway descends to a small renovated cabin at the water’s edge—a dreamlike setting for children’s play or quiet moments alone. La Flèche is far more than a secondary residence. It embodies a way of living rooted in respect for place, refined design, and a pursuit of tranquility. It celebrates the intimate relationship between people and nature, between comfort and landscape, between the warmth of the hearth and the clarity of architectural lines. In this project, MU Architecture captures a rare emotional resonance—a simple yet powerful beauty that is deeply grounded, yet ever looking to the horizon. This residence was conceived as a place to pause and absorb the serenity of its surroundings. La Flèche is ultimately an ode to hospitality, generosity, comfort, and the timeless elegance of nature and its elements.
About MU Architecture
Founded in Montreal in 2010 by Charles Côté and Jean-Sébastien Herr, MU Architecture is known for its contemporary residences, creative office spaces, and forward-thinking projects. Drawing on experience from renowned firms in Montreal, Vienna, Barcelona, and Dubai, the founders have infused international standards into their practice.
MU Architecture shapes unique spaces using the latest technologies, blending refined style, natural light, and innovation. The firm stands out for its human-centered approach, strong communication, and commitment to environmentally conscious design.
Driven by a talented and passionate team, MU Architecture's work has earned multiple awards and international recognition.
Photo credit: Raphaël Thibodeau