Superkul’s Shift Cottage is a Passive Lakeside Oasis That Connects With Nature

As we roll into fall we're keeping a sharp eye out for cozy winter escapes - and this little cottage by Toronto-based <a href="http://superkul.ca/" target="_blank">Superkul Architects</a> fits the bill nicely. Just imagine curling up with a book inside this rustic wilderness retreat set beside a placid lake and towering pines. Called the <a href="http://superkul.ca/projects/shift-cottage" target="_blank">Shift Cottage</a>, the lakeside abode also utilizes passive building strategies to create a comfortable home that respects the surrounding environment.

The 2,000 square foot home sits upon a plateau overlooking <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lake_Huron" target="_blank">Lake Huron</a> in Canada. A glass walkway connects the two house units that are made entirely of wood and stone, elements that echo the surrounding environment.

Both of the home units feature entire walls of windows, displaying a panoramic view of the water on one side, and of the deep forest on the other.

The windows also allow for the home to be <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Passive_house" target="_blank">passively </a>lit and ventilated throughout the day while the old pier foundations below allow the undercroft to cool itself naturally.

A cedar deck wraps around the lakeside terrace and includes outdoor play spaces and even showers.

The builders have taken special consideration in conserving energy with the construction of the home by using only locally available materials and easily barged prefabricated pieces. Most of the local wood and stone used for the house are also left in their natural state, saving manufacturing costs and energy.

The surrounding landscape of the cottage has also been left untouched, not only keeping it low maintenance but also incorporating the house seamlessly into its rustic environment all year long.