Perched on a picturesque peninsula in Ontario’s Kawartha region, the Catchacoma Cottage is a thoughtfully designed, one-storey retreat by Dubbeldam Architecture + Design. Intended for three generations of an extended family, this 205-square-meter cottage is a model of harmony with its environment, balancing form, function, and sustainability.
Three Volumes, One Unified Roof
The design’s hallmark lies in its three distinct volumes, each tailored for specific functions. These sections are unified under a steeply sloped roofline, creating a cohesive architectural identity. The central core is a social hub with a living and dining area, a kitchen, and a loft above, offering breathtaking views of Lake Catchacoma. Flanking this are two wings—one for family bedrooms and another for guests—providing privacy while maintaining a connection to shared spaces.
Connecting Interior and Exterior
Every detail of the cottage reflects a commitment to integrating with its natural surroundings. Expansive glass doors and clerestory windows dissolve the boundaries between indoors and outdoors, flooding the interiors with natural light. Maple plywood walls, a steel fireplace backdrop, and reclaimed wood accents create a warm yet understated interior palette. Outside, grey-stained wood cladding ensures the structure melds into the surrounding forest, while a tiered lakeside deck invites outdoor relaxation and gatherings.
Sustainability Rooted in Design
Catchacoma Cottage employs a suite of sustainable strategies to minimize its environmental impact. Its four-season design incorporates zoning for energy efficiency, allowing wings to shut down in colder months. Vaulted ceilings and operable windows enhance natural ventilation, reducing reliance on air conditioning. Responsibly sourced FSC-certified wood and a tight, well-insulated building envelope further underline the project’s ecological sensitivity.
A Testament to Thoughtful Architecture
Catchacoma Cottage exemplifies how architecture can foster connection—between people, and with the environment. Its layout encourages communal living while offering spaces of retreat, and its material palette and sustainable features ensure a low ecological footprint. This lakeside home stands as a reminder that thoughtful design is not only functional but deeply attuned to its surroundings.
Technical Sheet
| Location | The Kawarthas, Ontario |
|---|---|
| Size | 2,210 sq. ft. | 205 sq. m |
| Completion | 2023 |
| Photography | Riley Snelling |
| General Contractor | Ortolan Building Design Ltd. |
| Structural Engineer | Blackwell Structural Engineers |
