Bunkie on the Hill by Dubbeldam Architecture + Design

Set high on a hill among the trees, this compact cabin was conceived as an escape from the action of a multigenerational property and a place to be at one with nature, with a light-filled, timber-lined interior that invites calm reflection.

Dubbed Bunkie on the Hill – ‘bunkie’ being a Canadian term for a small cabin or bunkhouse – the dwelling is the smallest of a smattering of homes that span across this family-owned land. The A-frame form pays homage to the storybook cabin in the woods, with overlapping roof volumes adding an artful bend to the design while referencing the angular schist faces seen in the surrounding landscape. This is added to by the natural grey tones of the timber cladding and in-situ concrete base. Entry into the bunkie is via an open corridor framed with slatted timber, forming a sheltered spot to prepare the mind for refuge, as well as creating interesting light and shadow play.

Inside, a glazed wall reaches the roofline, bringing an abundance of natural light and illuminating the golden hues of the interior linings.

Inside, a glazed wall reaches the roofline, bringing an abundance of natural light and illuminating the golden hues of the interior linings, which are clad in several different species of timber to delineate different roles throughout the space. Internal partitions are clad in maple plywood, while the ceiling features Western red cedar slats in varying shades of rich red, blonde and brown. This is grounded by oak flooring and bookended by vertically lined white wallboard on the perimeter walls. The expansive glazing also gives the dwelling a sense of being at one with the natural world outside the doors, as it sits at tree level to invite visits from passing birds, as well as providing a view over the blue lake beyond.

Unlike its often-chilly predecessors, this cabin is designed to keep the weather out, with thick exterior walls creating passive insulation and triple glazing for full protection from the frost. While compact, Bunkie on the Hill is entirely functional as an escape from the busy world, with a wood fireplace for those cosy nights, a mezzanine that can be used as a second bedroom or as an office with a built in desk overlooking the living space, as well as storage nooks and shelving tucked in wherever possible. The bedroom to the rear of the floor plan features a large picture window that takes in an immersive forest view. When the bustle of family life becomes overbearing, this is a sleek hideaway, providing just the right amount of amenity and comfort to clear the mind and bolster the spirit.

Architecture and interior design by Dubbeldam Architecture + Design. Build by HLD Muskoka.