Catchacoma Cottage Stands Lakeside in Kawartha Lakes

Catchacoma Cottage, designed by Dubbeldam Architecture + Design, is a multi-generational retreat on a peninsula in Kawartha Lakes, Canada. This 2023 project harmonizes with its sloping lakeside site, integrating seamlessly into the mature forest surroundings.

The cottage coexists within an opening of a mature forest where a previous structure once stood. Defined by its three volumes, the cottage takes cues from the sloping topography that rises from the water’s edge and creates a deep connection to the landscape.

These three soaring 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.

In addition to 6 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and a family room are all in its 205-square-metre footprint, 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, while being connected by a central core.

Within the open concept design, the core opens up views between the wings, sustaining a continuous connection to the natural landscape. Where the rooflines meet at varying heights, clerestory windows direct light and natural ventilation into lofted spaces and the living room below.

Views and access to the exterior are featured along every axis. According to principal Heather Dubbeldam, “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.”

A palette of white and wood with dark accents carries throughout the interior, with maple plywood lining 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 greystone 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 both 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, further 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.

These elements are complemented by a tight building envelope with insulation levels exceeding code requirements. The responsibly sourced wood, which serves as the dominant construction material, is Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified – promoting sustainable forestry and reducing the project’s carbon footprint.