The boathouse on Kawagama Lake includes a dry slip boat storage via marine railway, and a 42 sq.m. dwelling space above accessed by a small bridge structure which spans the native topography. The project included the dismantling of an existing structure and creation of this new steel frame building and the adjacent outdoor living features.

The site is accessible only by water and therefore the design was highly influenced by the practicality of the construction process. All systems including the structure were designed to be transported by small watercraft, moved and erected by hand. The dwelling features are very basic and the intent was to create a space which heightens the experience of living on the water through siting, view, sound and smell. The site topography and the adjacent forest were protected and strongly influenced how this building engages the site. Materials were primarily selected for both their aesthetics and their durability and performance in freeze/thaw conditions.  We reused as much of the lumber from the existing structure as possible, due to the challenges of bringing and removing materials from the site.  The lower level of the boathouse was clad with wood siding salvaged from the existing structure. We choose Douglas fir as our wood for the project for it warmth and ubiquitous heritage in Ontario cottage country.

The Boathouse on Kawagama Lake provides both seasonal storage of watercraft and waterside living. It sits gently on the site with small diameter pier foundations and the materials used allow the building to quietly fade into the surrounding forest. On most days from almost all vantage points, the boathouse reflects the forest or lake and is challenging to identify until you are immediately in front of it.

Material Used :
1. Site work: John Bacher Construction
2. Steel Fabrication: Torsteel
3. Window Systems: Series 625 by Commdoor Aluminum
4. Floor Tile: Blue Stone Paver by StoneTile
5. Millwork and Wood Siding: Building Arts
6. Wood Stove: Alterra by Regency