This one-storey cottage, designed for an extended family spanning three generations, is located on a peninsula that offers a panoramic view of Lake Catchacoma. The structure is characterized by its three distinct volumes, which are harmoniously integrated within a clearing of a mature forest where a previous building once existed. The design, conceived by Dubbeldam Architecture + Design, is informed by the sloping topography that ascends from the water’s edge, allowing the cottage to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings and fostering a profound connection to the landscape.
The three volumes of the cottage serve as separate wings, all unified under a single roof featuring steeply sloped lines. A central gathering area encompasses living and dining spaces, characterized by soaring ceilings, a kitchen, and a loft area situated above. The arrangement of family and guest bedrooms is strategically clustered within their respective wings, flanking the central volume to enhance privacy while maintaining accessibility.
With a total of six bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a family room, the cottage occupies a footprint of 205 square meters, prioritizing sociability and the communal experience inherent to cottage life. The steeply sloped rooflines delineate the three volumes, each positioned at varying floor heights that follow the natural grade of the site. This design is further enhanced by a central core that facilitates visual connections between the different areas of the cottage.
At the intersections of the rooflines, which vary in height, clerestory windows are incorporated to allow natural light and ventilation to permeate the lofted spaces and the living room below. This thoughtful architectural approach not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the cottage but also contributes to a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for family gatherings and shared experiences.
To maintain a continuous relationship with the surrounding landscape, the design strategy emphasizes the reduction of visual and physical barriers between indoor and outdoor environments, thereby enhancing the overall enjoyment of the cottage experience.
Heather Dubbeldam, Principal, says that “views and access to the exterior are featured along every axis.” Upon entering the cottage, a large glazed sliding door provides immediate vistas of the lake, while circulation pathways are designed to culminate in windows that visually link the interior with the natural surroundings.
The interior design employs a cohesive palette of white and wood, accented by darker tones. Maple plywood adorns the interior walls, harmonizing with charcoal grey doors and cabinetry. A striking unfinished cold-rolled steel wall serves as a dramatic backdrop for the wood-burning stove and custom firewood storage, while a reclaimed wood wall delineates the entry foyer. Additional features include a greystone island in the kitchen and dark metal accents that create a contrast with the lighter wood elements throughout the cottage.
The exterior cladding is composed of grey-stained wood, allowing the cottage to seamlessly integrate into its environment with a textured finish that complements the dark tree trunks surrounding it. The entry porch, crafted from warm red cedar, appears to be sculpted from the central volume, drawing focus to the main entrance.
An expansive deck extends along the lakeside of the cottage, accommodating both large family gatherings and tranquil outdoor relaxation. Designed to harmonize with the natural slope of the site, the deck cascades in multiple tiers toward the water’s edge, providing ample space for a variety of outdoor activities.
Catchacoma Cottage adopts a comprehensive approach to sustainable design, integrating both passive and active strategies to mitigate environmental impact. As a four-season retreat, the HVAC system is designed to allow for the shutdown of specific zones and wings during winter months, thereby decreasing energy consumption. The incorporation of vaulted ceilings and large operable windows facilitates passive ventilation and maximizes natural daylight, which in turn diminishes the dependence on air conditioning and artificial lighting.
In addition to these features, the cottage includes high-performance glazing, low-flow plumbing, and energy-efficient fixtures and appliances. A heat-recovery ventilation system further enhances its sustainability, supported by a tightly constructed building envelope that exceeds standard insulation requirements. The predominant use of responsibly sourced wood, certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), underscores the commitment to sustainable forestry practices and contributes to reducing the overall carbon footprint of the project.