Tucked into the rugged shoreline of the Kawartha Highlands, this water-access lake house is a thoughtful reinvention of a cherished family retreat. The original 560-square-foot cabin—with no electricity, no running water, and postcard-worthy views—had served as a seasonal escape. But as the owners dreamed of creature comforts for extended stays, they envisioned a home that would remain low-impact, carbon-conscious, and deeply connected to its surroundings.

The result is a 1000-square-foot addition built to Passive House standards, creating a high-efficiency, year-round dwelling. The new wing houses the living spaces and a “winter bedroom,” allowing the original cabin to be closed off during colder months. A covered breezeway—affectionately known as the “bug zone”—connects old and new, framing lake views and providing a relaxed transition between structures.