The chalet with garden level Quebec: the complete guide to help you
- coraliefortin076
- Jun 12
- 5 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
Imagine a cozy cottage, bathed in light, where every room offers unobstructed views of the surrounding nature. Now imagine this cottage adapting perfectly to the slope of the land, without compromising on space or comfort. This is exactly what a cottage with a garden level offers.
At Plan Maison Québec, we specialize in designing custom construction and renovation plans, and the cottage with a garden level is one of the most popular options among our clients. In this comprehensive guide, discover why this type of home is attracting more and more Quebecers and how we can support you every step of the way.
What is a chalet with garden level Quebec?
Unlike a traditional house, which rests on a fully buried basement, a garden level (also sometimes called an open-concept or split-level basement) is a floor partially buried in the ground, but largely open to the outdoors. Thanks to a sloping site, it's possible to enjoy direct access to the garden while still retaining abundant natural light.
A chalet with a garden level is therefore a smart architectural solution that optimizes the use of the land's natural contours. This concept, both functional and aesthetic, allows for the design of homes on two or more levels, where each space is highlighted.
Why is the garden level particularly suitable for chalets?
Chalets are often built in rural or mountainous settings, where flat land is scarce. Sloping terrain then becomes an asset rather than an obstacle. The garden level offers a suitable solution for this context. It allows the chalet to be firmly established while offering optimized, bright, and nature-oriented layouts.
Furthermore, the presence of a garden level in a chalet increases its versatility. It can accommodate:
guest bedrooms
a family room
a workshop
a separate suite.
The potential is immense, particularly for those who wish to maximize their investment by renting out part of the chalet.
The main advantages of a chalet with a garden level
At Plan Maison Québec, we assist our clients in designing cottages that take advantage of the unique benefits of garden level living. Here's why more and more homeowners are interested in it:
1 ) An abundance of natural light
Forget the image of a dark and damp basement. The garden level, with its large windows and openings to the outdoors, is bathed in natural light. This brightness enhances comfort and improves quality of life, while reducing energy consumption for lighting.
2 ) Optimal integration into the field
One of the challenges of building in rural areas is dealing with the topography. The garden-level chalet is perfectly suited to uneven terrain. It follows the contours rather than counteracting them, reducing excavation costs while preserving the integrity of the landscape.
3 ) A valorization of space
Rather than treating the basement as a secondary space, the garden level is designed as a natural extension of the home. It can be arranged in a thousand ways: relaxation lounge, gym, home theater room, master bedroom with terrace... Every square meter is used strategically.
4 ) Direct access to the garden and nature
One of the joys of a cottage is enjoying the outdoors. The garden level provides direct access to the grounds, often with a deck or patio. This seamless connection between indoors and outdoors is highly valued, especially in wooded areas or near a lake.
5 ) Rental income potential
If you want to maximize your investment, the garden level can be converted into a rental unit. Many Plan Maison Québec clients choose this option to accommodate tourists or provide independent living accommodation for relatives. This is a strategic addition that increases the chalet's resale value.
Challenges to anticipate when building a chalet with a garden level
Like any construction project, building a cottage with a garden level requires careful planning. At Plan Maison Québec, our team of experts will guide you to avoid common pitfalls.
1 ) Insulation and waterproofing
A garden level is in direct contact with the ground. It is therefore necessary to provide impeccable thermal insulation and waterproofing to prevent humidity, infiltration, or heat loss. This requires quality materials and careful execution.
2 ) Slope management
The slope of the land must be studied from the outset. A slope that is too steep can complicate access, increase construction costs, or require retaining walls. Conversely, a gentle slope offers more development possibilities. This is where the expertise of Plan Maison Québec makes all the difference.
3 ) Compliance with local standards
Each municipality imposes specific regulations regarding construction, land development, and zoning. It's essential to fully understand these requirements before starting work. We handle all the administrative procedures and ensure your project complies with current standards.
4 ) The overall budget
While a garden level is an effective solution, it can generate additional costs, including earthworks, drainage, foundation walls, and more. However, these investments are largely offset by the added value of the project. Our customized plans take your budget priorities into account while maximizing the functionality of the space.
How much does a chalet with a garden level cost?
The cost varies depending on several factors: surface area, materials chosen, complexity of the land, location of the construction site, level of finish, etc. In general, the price of a chalet with a garden level ranges between $200,000 and $500,000, depending on the architectural choices. It is important to allow for a budget margin for unforeseen events, but also for possible adjustments to the plans.
At Plan Maison Québec, we offer adaptable pre-established plans as well as custom design services, to optimize your investment and build the chalet of your dreams while respecting your budget.
Plan Maison Québec: your partner for a worry-free project
Building or renovating a cottage with a garden level is an ambitious project that deserves the support of skilled professionals. For several years, Plan Maison Québec has specialized in designing custom residential plans for houses, cottages, or garages.
Our team is composed of experienced architectural technicians who are attentive to your needs and inspiration. We assist you from the initial sketches to finalization, including 3D modeling and regulatory advice.
Our plans are:
Compliant with Quebec and municipal standards
Optimized for sloping lots
Adaptable to your lifestyle
Designed to maximize natural light and views
We understand that every project is unique. Whether you're looking for a small, rustic cottage or a contemporary second home with a garden level, we'll help bring your vision to life.
Conclusion: Make your dream chalet come true with Plan Maison Québec
A chalet with garden level in Quebec represents much more than just a second home. It's a way of life, an immersion in nature, and a smart way to maximize the value of a sloping lot. It's also a sustainable, profitable real estate project perfectly suited to the Quebec climate.
At Plan Maison Québec, we put our expertise at your service to make your project a success. Do you have a specific idea or would you like to start from scratch? Our team is ready to assist you with professionalism, rigor, and creativity.
Together, let’s shape the living space that suits you.
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