Couples Cottage

A very tight building envelope with strict shoreland zoning restrictions, the owner’s needed to act fast to begin building before the deadline expired and the site would become unbuildable according to the land restrictions. Although the allowable building area and height restrictions forced a small footprint and volume, the owners were already considering a 1,000 sf structure for efficiency, maintenance, and to help keep costs in check.

The owners worked with Senecal Construction Services on a preliminary budget, and then met with David Matero Architecture on the design. The owners already had in mind a contemporary approach to their summer and winter weekend retreat in Poland.

The mono-slope roof allows for simple construction and large open views to the lake, while at the same time keep the height of structure within allowable tolerances. It also allows direct winter light to filter throughout the entire house as the house is oriented to face south. The summer sun is shaded by both the large roof overhang as well as Douglas Fir sunshades.

The materials on the exterior, shiplap Pine boards and a dark color metal siding, evoke the natural setting of the cottage. The roof, structured with TJI’s with plywood strapped to the underside of the top flange, create a cold roof with insulation below and covered with Pine boards that are accent lighted by a valance on the low side of the roof.

The first level has a stained concrete floor that acts as a thermal mass in both winter and summer. The second floor decking is exposed below by using 2 layers of tongue and groove Pine boards, flipped upside down so the square edge is exposed with Douglas fir beams. The Douglas Fir slat wall separates the kitchen form the stairs, and along with a floating, open riser staircase, offers filtered views and sunlight creating the sense of open space in an otherwise small cottage.

The same tongue and groove boards are used under the sloped roof and are highlighted with hidden lighting grazing the underside of the roof.

Along with a small wood stove, the efficiently designed house is heated by two air-source heat pumps, and maintains a warm and cozy environment even in the coldest of days.