Green Cabin: A Modern Tribute to Nature and Tradition on Roberts Island
Perched on the rugged shores of Georgian Bay, the Green Cabin is a seamless blend of modern design and respect for tradition. This striking addition to a cherished Roberts Island property complements an existing cottage, serving as a seasonal retreat while harmonizing with the surrounding natural beauty. Accessible only by boat, the cabin’s thoughtful design ensures it belongs to the land as much as to its owners.
Approaching from the dock, visitors are greeted by rocky outcrops and the existing elevated cottage, framed by wetlands and forested treeline. The new cabin was sited nearby, fostering a sense of connectivity between the structures while adhering to strict zoning setbacks. Built to withstand Georgian Bay’s intense weather conditions, the cabin’s raised design mitigates fluctuating water levels and ensures durability.
Wrapped in sage green standing seam metal, the cabin’s exterior exudes a monolithic elegance. The palette, inspired by the existing cottage and surrounding foliage, helps the structure blend with its environment. In winter, vibrant green contrasts against the pale snow, adding a seasonal layer of beauty. A steel drip edge gracefully outlines the windows, managing water flow while accentuating the minimalist façade.
Large west-facing windows dominate the design, capturing panoramic views of the lake and offering a seamless connection to nature. In contrast, the east and south elevations are more subdued, with an ash-clad bump-out nestled into the treeline. Awning windows punctuate these elevations, inviting cross breezes and creating intimate portals to the surrounding landscape.
Inside, the cabin surprises with a retro-modern aesthetic. Inspired by 70s Malibu beach houses, the vibrant interior boasts playful hues of pink and purple, zellige tile, and bold furniture like the Pierre Paulin Ribbon chair. Natural light streams through a strategically placed skylight, illuminating the sloped ceiling and imbuing the space with energy and calm.
Functionally versatile, the Green Cabin is both a serene escape and a lively gathering space. It transitions effortlessly between a workout studio, cocktail bar, home office, and guest quarters, adapting to the needs of its occupants. Designed to complement, not overshadow, the original cottage, it preserves the integrity of the property while offering a glimpse into its future evolution.
The Green Cabin is more than an architectural feat—it is a testament to thoughtful design, blending contemporary form, timeless function, and a deep reverence for the natural world. A sanctuary where memories are made and a legacy preserved.
Green Cabin has been featured in a collection of prestigious design publications including: ArchDaily, Design Milk, Amazing Architecture, Archello and Contemporist.
For additional information, and photographic spread catch the full project write up here!
