Sand Lake Cottage
This contemporary lakefront retreat was designed as a shared family cottage for two brothers who spent their childhood summers on Sand Lake. When a rare opportunity arose to purchase vacant land, they envisioned building a modern, year-round getaway to enjoy with their young families and friends.
The clients approached us with a clear vision: a warm, modern cottage with expansive windows, natural materials, and a relaxed, welcoming feel. Drawing inspiration from a collection of images and rooted in a deep understanding of the site—its views, solar orientation, and prevailing winds—we developed a clean, modern design that is both refined and timeless
The cottage is strategically sited midway up the slope, level with the access road, to take full advantage of panoramic views over the lake and surrounding forest. Interior living spaces are organized along the lakeside, opening onto a generous deck that spans the kitchen, dining area, and screened porch. This outdoor living space includes stairs that lead directly to the water’s edge. A pass-through connects the kitchen to the screened porch—complete with a wood stove for cool evenings—while a built-in coffee bar anchors the interior dining area.
The material palette is intentionally light and natural, featuring Douglas fir timber construction, oak flooring, ash cabinetry, and crisp white walls. The result is a serene, airy interior that balances contemporary design with the essence of traditional cottage living.
The sunken living room features a second wood stove and is designed with a wall that doubles as a projection screen, creating a cozy, cinematic experience for evening relaxation.
The main entrance is discreetly located at the corner closest to the driveway, with a recessed door protected from the elements. The ground floor also includes a full bathroom, laundry room, and ample storage.
Upstairs, four bedrooms and a full bathroom accommodate family and guests. With future rental use in mind, one rear bedroom—designed to double as an office—features a Murphy bed and is cleverly concealed behind a bookcase door, allowing it to be locked off when not in use.
The site was carefully landscaped with naturalistic elements, including stone steps integrated with the exposed bedrock, armour stone walls, native plantings, a lakeside firepit, and a patio that serves as a launch point for swimming.
This cottage is a thoughtfully designed retreat—a place of connection, relaxation, and escape from the pace of city life.
