Mirror homes in the forests of Quebec dazzle on the market

In some cases, a home’s surroundings can be so dreamy, it’s almost a pity to step inside. But at these twin architectural homes in the Canadian province of Quebec, you get to bring the outside in with you.

Not literally, of course. That wouldn’t be ideal in the depths of winter, where temperatures can dip to a frigid -30 degrees. Instead, the homes’ striking glass exterior ensures that wherever you are inside, nature is always on full display.

Situated on just under a hectare of wooded land, the single-storey homes were built in 2021 by a team of local investors with holiday rentals in mind. Each of the identical homes boasts two bedrooms and one bathroom, plus open-plan living and dining spaces.

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“The owners are real creators of avant-garde projects. They love and are inspired by concepts that are out of the ordinary and offer their customers a unique experience,” says selling agent Amina Durand from Sotheby’s International Realty Quebec.

“For this project, the owners had the idea of creating a complete immersion in nature. To expose the beauty of the inside and outside.”

And the resulting design is nothing short of eye-catching.

The homes showcase minimalist Scandinavian architecture, from their clean lines and simplistic rectangular shape to the seamless blend of modern design with natural elements. A 12-metre mirrored glass facade stretches one entire side of each home, reflecting the surrounding forest and sky.

The interiors channel the calming surroundings, with the outdoors remaining the focal point of every room. Extensive use of wood panelling, gracing both walls and ceilings, radiates warmth. Neutral tones dominate the palette, and limited window treatments allow the abundant natural light to pour in.

In the lounge room, two walls of glass offer serene views of the forest. The open-plan dining area is adjacent, while the kitchen – a black modern galley design – effortlessly blends into a dark feature wall.

The homes comfortably sleep six people each. The main bedrooms are a cosy haven, with a queen bed and a reading alcove. The secondary bedrooms sleep up to four thanks to a unique bunk bed, with a queen bed below and a double bed above. The modern bathroom boasts a walk-in Italian shower and high-end fixtures alongside a laundry. And while they sit close to each other on the property, a smattering of forest ensures privacy for both.

The homes are located in Petite-Riviere-Saint-Francois, a picturesque spot in Quebec in Canada’s west. Not far from the St Lawrence River, the area is considered the gateway to the Charlevoix region.

“The Charlevoix region is known for its many outdoor activities—skiing, snowmobiling, hiking, biking, etc. It is very popular with tourists who love nature sports. It is also a very nice place to recharge your batteries and spend quality time with your loved ones just one hour from Quebec City,” says Durand.

“In Quebec, we fully experience the four seasons. In the mountains, the snow is more abundant and the temperature can regularly drop to -30 degrees.”

No matter the season, the homes are equipped to handle it all. In winter, heated floors and a wood-burning fireplace provide warmth, while in summer, air-conditioning keeps things comfortable. Outside, each home features a private hot tub and a fire pit area, where evenings can be spent under the stars by the crackle of a fire.

The twin homes – which must be sold together – come fully furnished, have an established website and social media presence, and have a solid track record as short-term rentals.

“The project includes two houses, so [the new owner] can either rent both at the same time or take advantage of one if the other is rented,” says Durand.

“The project’s reputation is already well recognised. This allows the buyer to simply collect the profits without having to spend time on advertising or other things to promote the houses.”

Petite-Riviere-Saint-Francois

Charlevoix, Quebec, Canada | 17 and 21 Chemin Pierre-Perreault

Price guide: $2.478 million + taxes ($2.751 million)

Agent: Sotheby’s International Realty Quebec, Amina Durand +1 418 932 2228

While you’re there …

Just over an hour from Quebec City in eastern Canada, the Charlevoix region has a charming mix of breathtaking landscapes, outdoor adventures, a rich arts scene, and celebrated gastronomy.

Find your adventure

Le Massif de Charlevoix, just a short drive away, is a world-class destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Ski down pristine slopes with views of the St Lawrence River in winter, or hike and bike rugged trails during the warmer months.

What the agent says

“It is an exceptional terroir for the production of cider and cheese,” Durand says. “There are several microbreweries that produce quality local beers. Charlevoix is a destination that has much to offer to those who seek to combine nature, adventure, relaxation and cultural discoveries.”