TORONTO — Designed for an extended family of three generations, this one-story cottage is situated on a peninsula with a panoramic view over Lake Catchacoma. Defined by its three volumes the design by Dubbeldam Architecture + Design takes its cue from the sloping topography that rises from the water’s edge, seamlessly integrating the cottage into its surroundings and creating a deep connection to the landscape.

The cottage’s three volumes function as discrete wings unified beneath a single roof with steeply sloped rooflines. A central gathering space includes an area for living and dining, with soaring ceilings, a kitchen, and a loft space tucked above. Family and guest bedrooms are clustered into their respective wings, flanking the central volume.

The cottage includes six bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a family room in a footprint of 205 square meters (2,200 square feet), emphasizing sociability and the shared experience of cottage life.

“Views and access to the exterior are featured along every axis," explained Heather Dubbeldam, principal. "Immediately upon entry, a large, glazed sliding door opens up to views of the lake, and circulation routes culminate in windows to visually connect with the surrounding landscape.”

On the interior, a palette of white and wood with dark accents carries throughout. Maple plywood lines the interior walls, complemented by charcoal grey doors and cabinets. An unfinished cold-rolled steel wall forms a dramatic backdrop to the wood-burning stove and custom firewood storage, while a reclaimed wood wall demarcates the entry foyer. Additional accents include the kitchen’s grey stone island and dark metal details, which contrast with the light wood materials used throughout the cottage.

Grey-stained wood serves as the exterior cladding, allowing the cottage to blend into its landscape with a textured natural finish that complements the surrounding dark tree trunks. The entry porch, lined with warm red cedar, appears sculpted from the central volume, drawing attention to the main entrance. An expansive deck stretches along the cottage’s lakeside for large family gatherings or quiet outdoor relaxation. Designed to integrate seamlessly with the natural slope of the site, the deck cascades in multiple tiers towards the water’s edge, providing space for various outdoor activities.

Catchacoma Cottage embraces a holistic approach to sustainable design, incorporating passive and active strategies to minimize the environmental impact. Designed as a four-season retreat, its HVAC system allows zones and wings to be shut down in winter, reducing energy consumption. Vaulted ceilings and large operable windows enhance passive ventilation and natural daylighting, reducing reliance on air conditioning and artificial lighting. Other sustainable features include high-performance glazing, low-flow plumbing, energy-efficient fixtures and appliances, and a heat-recovery ventilation system, complemented by a tight building envelope with insulation levels exceeding code requirements. Responsibly sourced wood, the dominant construction material, is Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified, promoting sustainable forestry and reducing the project’s carbon footprint.