SUTTON, Quebec — The Ash Tree House was saved from the wrecking ball in favor of an ambitious revitalization program conceived by the La Nony FAMILI design firm.

The designers envisioned a path to transform the poorly maintained 1970s chalet surrounded by an abundance of ash trees in the heart of the Sutton Mountains. The plan was to use the building's heritage as a creative springboard to create a family home that meets modern standards of comfort and functionality. The intervention consisted of a complete renovation of the 4,000-square-foot building spread over three levels.

The project took shape through a reflection on the defining architectural elements of the building: the majestic ash staircase, the imposing stone fireplace, the exposed beam ceilings, and the successive volumes crowned with inverted roofs. These characteristics, central to the identity of the existing chalet, were carefully preserved and highlighted, becoming the source of inspiration for the entire renovation.

Ornamental steel elements and touches of color reinforce the graphic lines of the architecture. The vivid character of these elements is balanced by the choice of natural and warm materials, such as bleached ash, lime paint, and painted paneling, resulting in a soft and welcoming atmosphere.

The project allowed for a rethinking of all the spaces for a more fluid layout and better functionality. For example, the "basement" became a bright garden-level floor that now houses the main entrance and a large family room.

"In all of our projects, we pay special attention to the flow of circulation and space optimization," explains Aza Lussier, associate designer at La Nony FAMILI. "We aim to design a space where every element finds its place, where there is a balance between void and full, carefully positioned openings, and natural flow. Our strategy often involves creating dense, integrated storage areas to clear other spaces."

Technical credits 
Architecture and Design: La Nony FAMILI
General Contractor: Menuiserie Simon Fortin
Structural Engineer: R.W.Harvey ing.

Collaborators
Cladding: Maibec
Windows: Schuco
Joinery: Gaiac
Metal work: Yves Lalandes
Upholstery: Atelier Metz
Lighting: Tungstene Creative Lighting, Hamster, EQ3 
Concrete Sinks: Béton Johnstone
Plumbing Fixtures: Ramacieri
Ceramics: Ramacieri, Céragrès, Stone Tile