1,600 sf Seasonal Cottage. Haliburton, Ontario. Completion 2010.

Design

This modest project grounds itself in its surroundings, drawing from the beauty of the entire site and serves as a simple and modern space graced with picturesque natural views.

Design Features

The rugged site had a major influence on the design of the cottage. Floors levels sit at different elevations to correspond to the uneven ground plane, significant sheltering roofs mirror the slopes of the site and unify the levels of the plan beneath, integrating the building comfortably into the landscape. The asymmetric pitched roof allows for a loft bedroom at its peak, with a clerestory window at the revealed ridge. The timber wood structure opens up the walls for panoramic views with a focus on the lakeside and the encompassing coniferous forest. It is a “right-sized” house, which means no wasted space, and compact but generous volumes. The simple program is enriched by the sectional qualities of the building, and vistas promoted by over-sized picture windows.

Materials

Prefinished pine cladding,Douglas Fir timber framing

Sustainability Features

• Program and Spatial Optimization
• Integration with the ‘Natural Assets’ of Site and Terrain
• Natural Ventilation and Passive Cooling
• Natural Daylighting
• High Performance Envelope Design
• Renewable Materials and Finishes
• Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) and Non-toxic Materials and Finishes
• Heat Recovery Ventilation
• Low Energy Lighting & Appliances
• Water Conserving Appliances & Fixtures

Altius Project Team

Architecture: Trevor McIvor, Andy Thomson

Construction Management: Doug Orchard

Project Partners

• Engineering: Cucco Engineering - Christopher Cucco, Toronto
• Construction: Orchard Contracting - Doug Orchard