Catchacoma Cottage, a four-season home for multiple generations of family and friends
Dubbeldam Architecture + Design
Villa
/
Completed
The client envisioned a highly functional, four-season cottage for multiple generations of family and friends, with spaces for both large gatherings and quiet retreat. Responding to the sloping site descending toward the lake, the building steps down in sections. Its three distinct volumes serve as separate wings, unified beneath a single roof. The steeply sloped rooflines define each volume and follow the natural topography, while a central core connects them and frames views through the cottage.
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At the end of a forested lane, the cottage sits in a natural clearing near the sloping lakefront. The main entrance, tucked into a cedar-lined alcove carved from the central volume, is positioned opposite the water. Upon entry, expansive views of the lake are revealed through large sliding glass doors in the main living area. Access to the outdoors and framed views are emphasized along every axis, with circulation paths leading to windows that visually connect the interior to the surrounding landscape. The living room opens directly onto a tiered deck that extends toward the water’s edge, reinforcing the cottage’s seamless relationship with the site.
The client was also interested in embracing a sustainable approach to the design and building of their new cottage. No trees were cut down, as the cottage is built in a clearing where the previous cottage once stood. To minimize energy use, the four-season cottage is designed with HVAC zoning capabilities that allow for the closure of specific portions or separate wings when not in use. The design incorporates other features such as high-performance glazing, strategically placed operable windows that maximize natural ventilation during warmer months, a heat-recovery ventilation system combined with a tightly sealed building envelope, as well as wall and roof insulation levels that exceed minimum code requirements.
Designed for a family of three generations, this one-storey cottage is situated on a peninsula with a panoramic view over Lake Catchacoma. Defined by its three volumes, the cottage is situated within a clearing in the mature forest where a previous structure once stood. The design takes its cue from the sloping topography that rises from the water’s edge, integrating the cottage into its surroundings and creating a deep connection to the landscape.The cottage’s three volumes function as discrete wings. A central gathering space includes areas for living and dining with soaring ceilings, a kitchen, and a loft space tucked above. Family and guest bedrooms are clustered into two wings, flanking the central volume. The cottage includes 6 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and a family room in a footprint of 205 s.m., emphasizing sociability and the shared experience of cottage life.
The steeply sloped rooflines articulate the three volumes, each situated at a different floor height following the natural grade of the site. Where the rooflines meet at varying heights, clerestory windows direct light and natural ventilation into lofted spaces and the living area below. To sustain a connection to the landscape, the design approach minimizes barriers between interior and exterior spaces. Views and access to the exterior are featured along every axis. A large sliding glass door opens to the lakeside, and circulation routes culminate in windows to visually connect with the surrounding landscape.
Maximizing natural light and orienting the cottage toward the lake were our key priorities, with a desire to frame both views of the site and lake. We wanted to blur the boundaries between indoors and outdoors, with opportunities for cross-breezes and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions. An expansive deck stretches along our cottage’s lakeside for family gatherings or quiet outdoor relaxation. It cascades in tiers towards the water's edge, providing space for various outdoor activities.
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Catchacoma Cottage is A multi-generational cottage is characterized by three soaring volumes that harmonize with its sloping lakeside site.
Riley Snelling
Upon entry, visitors are immediately greeted with a view through the living space and out the large rear sliding glass doors, revealing the lake beyond.
Riley Snelling
The design emphasizes a continuous visual connection to the landscape. A central circulation spine connects the three volumes, framing curated outdoor views at each end.
Riley Snelling
At the center of the living space, the dining area includes a built-in maple plywood banquette, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for gatherings around the dining table.
Riley Snelling
Where the rooflines converge, a loft space provides a cool hangout for teenagers, creating an intimate nook above the open floor plan that overlooks the double-height living area.
Riley Snelling
The kitchen, tucked beneath the loft, contrasts the warm hues of maple plywood with cool greys. It features Greystone counters, charcoal cabinetry, and a waterfall island.
Riley Snelling
In the living room, a freestanding Stuv wood-burning stove is set on a slate stone ledge, complemented by a custom steel firewood storage solution.
Riley Snelling
Curated views of the exterior are integrated into every space within the cottage's interior, ensuring a connection with the natural surroundings.
Riley Snelling
The sunroom is a cozy retreat, enhanced by large windows that frame views of the lake and fill the space with natural light.
Riley Snelling
Three distinct volumes with steep rooflines are integrated, connecting the main and guest bedroom wings with the central living area, while clearly defining the separate spaces within the cottage.
Riley Snelling
The cottage was placed within an opening of a mature forest where a previous structure once stood, minimizing environmental impact and preserving the existing trees. Nestled among the trees, the cottage is visible from the lake, blending into its natural
Riley Snelling
An expansive deck spans multiple levels, bridging the sloped site's grade differences and cascading down in multiple tiers towards the water's edge. Extending along the lakeside of the cottage, it offers diverse gathering spots for family gatherings or in
The Kawarthas
Canada
Confidential
Residential
10/2023
205 m2
Confidential
Dubbeldam Architecture + Design
Heather Dubbeldam, Scott Sampson, Kelsey Wilkinson, Gigi Presentey
Ortolan Building Design
Blackwell
PLUMBING FIXTURES – all from Taps Kitchen: Blanco, Radius stainless steel undermount sink Kitchen: Blanco, Alta pull-out dual spray faucet, chrome finish Bathroom: Cabano, Smart single hole basin faucet, polished chrome Bathroom: Cabano, Sky 120 showerhead & arm, polished chrome Bathroom: Cabano, 3 Sixty trim set, polished chrome Bathroom & Master Ensuite: TOTO, Ultramax II one-piece toilet Bathroom & Master Ensuite: Delta, Square tile-in shower drain FINISHES WOOD FLOORING Throughout: white hard maple ¾” thick, solid, unfinished square edge from South Bruce Flooring Stairs: solid maple, 1” thick TILE Entry Floor: Basaltina, naturale, 12”x24”, Stone Tile Bathroom, Laundry Room, Powder Room, Main Ensuite Floor; Powder Room Wall: EVP Steel Grey 12x24”, Saltillo Tiles Bathroom & Main Ensuite Shower Floor: Piccolo porcelain mosaic, dark grey 106 matte, 2.5x5cm, Stone Tile Bathroom & Main Ensuite Shower Walls: Ageless, Pure White, matte, 6x24”, (Stone Tile) EXTERIOR Wood Cladding: Maibec Genuine wood siding, 1x6” contemporary profile, Coastal Charcoal Wood Cladding: T&G clear cedar boards, 1x6” square edge Roof: Agway Metals AR25 standing seam metal roof Windows: Kolbe VistaLuxe installed by Ridley Window Sills: Aluminum 18-20 gauge, colour to match windows Wood Trim: Pine and cedar exterior trimwork Wood Decking: MicroPro Sienna 5/4 x 6” pressure-treated boards Millwork AyA Kitchens Cabinets APPLIANCES & EQUIPMENT Kitchen Fridge/ Freezer: Fisher & Paykel 36” stainless steel French door refrigerator Kitchen Oven: Jenn Air Pro-Style 36” Gas Range with Multimode Convection (checked) Kitchen Range Hood: Sirius Bi Pro 34” undercabinet hood insert Kitchen Wine Fridge: Marvel 24” undercounter beverage cooler Laundry Room Washer: Whirlpool 27” front load washer, white finish Laundry Room Dryer: Whirlpool 27” front load dryer, white finish FIREPLACE UNITS & CUSTOM LADDER Living Room: Stuv 16 Cube 27” wide wood-burning fireplace Sun Room: Arada Farringdon Small Eco wood-burning stove in Midnight Loft Ladder: American Iron Design custom design & fabrication FURNISHINGS Benson Canyon sofa, supplied by Kiosk Madera Oak Dining Table, Extendable (Article) Resol, Sustainable Woody Chair (DWR) Tito Queen Bedframe (Structube) Andrew Richard Design, Outdoor Dining Chairs Sun Room furniture LIGHTING Living Room: Luna Chord Pendant with 6” Opal Shade in True Black finish Kitchen Island: Seed Design, MUMU Pendant in matte black (Dark Tools) Foyer: Kuzco, Falco ceiling light in white (Dark Tools) Bathrooms & Powder Room: Artemide LEDbar Square 24” wall sconce (Dark Tools) Dining Room: MUUTO Under the Bell pendant (Urban Mode) Exterior: Allegheny in Satin Black sconce (Schoolhouse) Bedroom: One-Arm Curved Rotating Wall Sconce (Serge Mouille) WALL COVERING Throughout: Grade B ½” thick birch plywood Powder Room: Lee Jofa, Cole & Son, “Woods” Onyx white wallcovering Foyer: reclaimed wood SOLID SURFACES Stone Installed by … Kitchen counter; Bathroom & Main Ensuite shower curbs: Caesarstone 2003, Concrete Kitchen island: “Grey Stone”, leathered/antiqued finish Living/Dining room fireplace bench & hearth; sun room fireplace hearth: Coby Ebony slate, honed
Riley Snelling
Bio
Dubbeldam Architecture + Design is a multidisciplinary studio committed to creating unique, beautifully crafted, and environmentally responsible projects that embody the spirit of place and people. The studio has garnered acclaim for its forward-thinking approach, design research, and commitment to sustainability. They are recognized as one of Canada’s leading practices and have received over 100 awards, including the highest honours for architecture in Canada.
Dubbeldam’s work exemplifies bold design and meticulous craftsmanship, encompassing a range of project types, including homes, multi-unit residential developments, workspaces, hospitality, landscape design and architectural installations. Rooted in challenging the status quo, the studio’s design research explores topics ranging from density and livability with a shared belief in architecture and advocacy as a catalyst for change.
