wooden cottage's jagged overhangs hover above lake landscape in canada

‘Algonquin Highlands’ house follows region’s natural elements

Toronto-based BLDG Workshop constructs a cottage set on an island peninsula in a lake of Algonquin Highlands overlooking the rocky outcrops and shorelines of the Great Canadian Shield. The design development of the residence revolves around the relationship between indoor and outdoor space and the natural landscape of Ontario. For the planning, the project prioritizes the natural elements affecting the site, such as the sun patterns on the peninsula, especially as they related to morning and evening light.

all images by Doublespace Photography

indoor-outdoor relationship is enhanced through the design

The arrangement captures the entire day’s light through the addition of a large indoor-outdoor space that sits at the front peak of the home overlooking the lake and surrounding landscape. The open layout of the plan, as well as a massive interior sliding window wall allow the whole home to function as an all-day outdoor living space throughout much of the year.

The design team at BLDG Workshop organizes the form protruding a series of zig zag overhangs that extend toward the greenery. The glazed fronts and gabled rooftops are supported by the wooden framework. While the two-story volume develops several living zones and common lounge areas, the outdoor space, also provides sitting spots on top of wooden decks that merge with the environment.

the two-story volume is supported by the wooden framework

the design organizes a series of zig zag overhangs protruding toward the greenery

a large indoor-outdoor space that sits at the front peak of the home overlooking the lake

the open layout and the interior sliding window wall allow the home to serve as an outdoor living space

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project info:

name: Algonquin Highlands
designer: BLDG Workshop – Nathan Buhler | @bldg_workshop

construction: Cowdens General Contracting

photography: Doublespace Photography