Pine Lake Cottage
Pine Lake Cottage emphasizes affordability with an eye for efficiency. Emerging from the teardown of the previous residence, this cottage was built entirely on the pre-existing foundation. In addition to being a cost-effective solution, this strategy also minimized the building’s impact on the natural environment.
Investing in energy-saving solutions for the future, the building is heated through a geothermal system. A roof structure comprised of structural insulated panels (SIPs) allowed for the prefabricated materials to be rapidly assembled on site while providing a strong, airtight and energy-efficient building enclosure.
The offset spaces that characterize the design add depth to the simple massing, where layers of light and shadow define the façade. The spaces are further conveyed through material selection, giving a unique quality to this modern dwelling. A contrasting material palette of light and dark emerges from the visual language found within the biodiversity of the wider forest, engaging the neighbouring birch and pine trees.
The protruding geometries define thresholds, creating subtle transitions in the experience of space, while shading occupants from rain and sun. Large sliding doors frame the living room, extending space to the deck and landscape beyond, and blurring the lines between interior and exterior.
