We are Graham and Céline, a Montréal-based family who divide our time between the city and the Laurentians. Our story stretches across provinces, countries, and careers, eventually leading us to create a cottage that reflects everything we value: family, beauty, community, and meaningful spaces.
Graham grew up in Ontario and works in the non-profit and social impact sector, supporting communities, churches, and local organisations across Canada.
Céline is a designer from France with a passion for architecture, aesthetics, and creating warm, thoughtful environments that people instantly feel at home in. Attention to detail, harmonious materials, natural light, and a sense of calm are central to her approach.
After many years abroad, we finally found our anchor in Québec, where we now live with our three children. Montréal is our primary home but we always dreamed of having a retreat in nature where our children could grow up running through the forest, swimming in clear lakes, and experiencing the magic of the Laurentians in every season.
In 2018, we discovered a stunning south-facing piece of forest on the quiet, pristine Lac Sarrazin, and we knew instantly that it was the place where our dream cottage would take shape. The land felt peaceful, sunlit, and full of possibility. In early 2020, we broke ground and began designing a home that blended Scandinavian inspiration, rustic warmth, and modern comfort.
Although Chalet BalĂ©tor is a rental, it is also very much our second home. We spend time here ourselves throughout the year, which means it is maintained with exceptional care and upgraded regularly. Weâve furnished it as we would want a home to feel: warm, comfortable, practical, and inviting, with small touches that come from truly living in a place, not just owning it.
We love hosting families, couples, and groups who appreciate the calm of a non-motorized lake, the beauty of the Laurentians, and the comfort of a thoughtfully designed retreat.