In Canada, the tradition of owning a secondary home in the countryside is a deeply rooted aspect of the national culture. In Ontario and parts of the Maritimes, these nature-surrounded secondary homes are often called "cottages". In British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan, the term "cabin" is more common, while in Quebec, they are known as "chalets." Regardless of what they are called, these rural retreats offer Canadians an escape from urban life, a place to gather with friends and family, reconnect with nature and enjoy outdoor activities throughout the year.
From lakes and rivers nestled among forests in Ontario and Quebec to the mountain ranges in British Columbia, Canada offers a variety of landscapes that serve both as inspiration and a challenge to designers. This range of natural settings allows architects to explore and implement different strategies and techniques tailored to each environment. For example, structures might be elevated on stilts to preserve the natural terrain allowing minimal disruption. Orienting buildings to maximize views and natural light is another very common practice, with many architects emphasizing sustainable strategies like passive heating and cooling to suit remote or resource-limited areas. The combination of these characteristics allows the projects to harmonize with their surroundings and offer spaces that interact with their immediate context.
