- Project: Lake Huron Residence
- Architect: SAOTA, ARRCC
- Location: Canada, Ontario
- Year: 2021
- Area: 1300 m2
- Photography: Adam Letch
Perched above the shoreline of Lake Huron in a remote town in Ontario, Canada, the Lake Huron Residence by SAOTA reimagines the classic Canadian lake house with bold architecture, advanced sustainability, and a seamless connection to nature. Designed by SAOTA in collaboration with ARRCC for interior design, the home balances innovation and sensitivity—offering a refined summer retreat for a modern family.
A Modern Take on Cabin Country
Though the area is known for traditional log cabins and cottages, this residence introduces a contemporary sculptural aesthetic, while remaining low-profile and site-sensitive. Nestled among mature fir trees on a bluff between the forest and the lake, the home is set back from the water to preserve the natural slope and limit its visual impact.
From the road, the home presents as a light-toned stone box seemingly suspended among the trees. From the lake, however, the architecture opens up—dissolving into a double-height glass façade that floods the interior with natural light and dramatic lake views.
“Our goal was to extend the traditional summer house vocabulary into something forward-thinking yet respectful of the landscape,” explains SAOTA.
Architecture Framed by Nature
Conceptually, the residence is made up of stacked rectangular volumes:
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A lower grounded box anchors the structure
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A floating upper box houses the bedrooms and private spaces
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The living level is tucked between, offering framed views of Lake Huron
A glass atrium at the entry forms a vertical light well, drawing natural light through the home’s core while establishing a visual connection to the lake beyond.
To the south, an indoor-outdoor pavilion maximizes lakeside living, and a bedroom block over the garage balances the massing at the front of the home.
A Functional & Flowing Layout
The design emphasizes spatial fluidity and ease of movement—essential for a relaxed family getaway. Large, open volumes like the central living and dining areas are counterbalanced by more intimate spaces, including a cozy kitchen zone and enclosed gym.
The upper floor is reserved entirely for the owners, featuring a private master suite, office, and wellness space. Outdoor amenities include:
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A covered entertainment terrace
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A pool overlooking the lake
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A refurbished existing cabin now serving as a guest house and waterfront lounge
This strategic layering of public and private zones ensures both intimacy and expansiveness.
Sustainability at the Core
One of the client’s favorite aspects is the technical “engine room” on the lowest floor—a hub for the home’s high-performance systems. Key sustainability features include:
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15kW solar array feeding power to the home and local grid
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On-site eco-flo septic system
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Underground stormwater infrastructure capable of managing 100-year storm events
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Building Automation System (BAS) that manages energy use, ventilation, and systems efficiency
Energy-efficient ceramic panel cladding, durable in Canada’s extreme weather, adds to the home’s long-term resilience and low maintenance.
ARRCC Interiors: Subtle Luxury
The interior design by ARRCC, SAOTA’s interiors division, continues the architectural narrative with calm, neutral tones, tactile materials, and minimalist detailing. Stone, wood, and refined furnishings enhance the connection between indoor space and the surrounding natural landscape.
Large expanses of glass, ceramic cladding, and soft modern furniture result in warm, contemporary spaces that feel luxurious yet grounded in nature.
