The Pine Lake Cottage emphasizes affordability with an eye for efficiency. Emerging from the tear down of the previous residence, this cottage was built entirely on the preexisting foundation. In addition to being a cost effective solution this strategy also minimized the buildings impact on the surrounding natural environment.

Investing in energy saving solutions for the future the building is heated through a geothermal system. A roofing 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 envelope.

The offset volumes that characterize the design add depth to the simple volume where layers of light and shadow delineate the façade. The volumes are further articulated through material selection giving a unique and defining quality to this modern dwelling. A contrasting material pallet of light and dark emerges from the visual language found in the biodiversity of the surrounding forest, engaging the neighbouring birch and pine trees. The protruding geometries define thresholds, creating subtle transitions in your 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, blurring the lines between interior and exterior.

Altius Project Team:

Architecture - Cathy Garrido, Andy Thomson