Couple's Cottage

Owners had to act fast on this lovely lake front property. There were timelines associated with the development there were about to expire forcing development to cease, alongside strict shoreland zoning restrictions severely limiting the building envelope. Although the allowable building area of 1,350 sf and height restrictions forced a small footprint and volume, the owners were already considering a 1,000 sf structure for efficiency, maintenance to help keep costs in check.

The owners already had in mind a contemporary approach to their summer and winter weekend retreat in Poland, Maine, and worked closely with the builder and architect.

The mono-slope roof allows for simple construction and large open views to the lake, while at the same time keeping the height of structure within allowable code requirements.  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 exterior materials, 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.