A young Canadian couple enlisted Quebec-based architecture and design firm Naturehumaine to completely renovate and reorganize the interior of the house built by the client’s grandfather. Lajeunesse Residence, meaning youth residence; is the combination of two existing apartments into a two story family house. The house has a simple palette scheme of steel plates, Russian plywood, white wood and glass. The result is an incredibly modern, bright and minimalist design that retains a cozy and homey atmosphere.
The ground floor features semi-transparent sliding doors that separate the living space from the streets below for additional privacy. In order to bring more direct sunlight to the main living space of the house, a double height light-well is suited with a skylight illuminating both floors. For additional lighting, two converging steel bars are suspended above the Russian plywood dining table. A plywood staircase fitted with glass handrails connects the two floors together.
Naturally Lit Minimalist Houses
Naturehumaine Converts Two Apartments into a Single Family Home
Trend Themes
1. Sustainable Minimalism - There is an opportunity to offer sustainable minimalist design as a cost-effective solution for modern housing.
2. Biophilic Design - Integrating natural elements into design can enhance well-being and provide connections to the environment.
3. Smart Lighting - Incorporating skylights and other sources of natural light can create innovative and cost-effective lighting solutions.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - Design firms can utilize sustainable minimalist and biophilic design approaches in their projects.
2. Real Estate - Real estate developers can market sustainable and nature-inspired living spaces to appeal to the modern homebuyer.
3. Lighting Design - Smart lighting companies can explore innovative approaches for bringing natural light into homes and buildings.