Crafted amidst the pandemic, Montreal-based firm APPAREIL Architecture developed the Micro-Cabine project, a small-scale cottage designed to minimize its ecological footprint. Through the integration of scaling and prefabrication, the firm seeks to transform architectural ideas and preserve resources while creating balanced living spaces in natural surroundings.
Inspired by its rich history of experimenting with multi-scale architecture, furniture, and interior design, APPAREIL Architecture envisions this structure as an object delicately placed on a chosen site. The modules are preassembled, with minimal ground contact thanks to pile foundations, ensuring utmost respect for the surrounding environment. The only additions required on-site are the final touches and the installation of the roof, completing the micro-cabine.
An open-concept layout inside eliminates physical barriers and subdivided spaces, optimizing every square foot. Welcoming guests with a cozy fireplace at the entrance ensures a warm and inviting ambiance while prioritizing comfort. The living area encompasses a sofa, a dining table, and a compact wall-mounted kitchen equipped with space-efficient appliances. Storage is cleverly tucked overhead, maximizing the available space.
Tailored for a young family of four, featuring two double bunk beds, this design embodies innovative thinking in compact and communal living. The studio’s choice of materials reflects its commitment to local sustainability, favoring the use of cedar, a local wood, for both the structure and finishes. This not only aligns with their vision but also supports the local ecosystem.
The Micro-Cabine project surpasses the limitations of a simple living space, showcasing APPAREIL’s commitment to eco-responsibility, communal living, and architectural advancement. Its modular and flexible design encapsulates the essence of the company’s dedication to innovation. This remarkable project prompts individuals to reevaluate their connection with their environment and the natural world, offering a practical resolution to the pressing ecological issues of our time.