Molly’s Cabin by AGATHOM

Perched on an 2.8-acre exposed Precambrian rock island in Canada’s Georgian Bay, the Molly’s Cabin is a private seasonal retreat for a multigenerational family.

Architects: AGATHOM
Location: Ontario, Canada
Photography: Paul Orenstein, Mark Giglio for Dwell, Courtesy of Agathom

Three and a half hours north of Toronto, more than eight miles from the nearest marina, the 92 sqm cabin is designed and owned by Katja and Adam Thom, principals of Toronto-based architecture firm Agathom.

This L-shaped building is constructed from recovered timbers and sheltered by a tent-like shingle roof, the wooden decks and bridges extend the interior to the outdoors, fit snugly against the boulders, and are close to the magnificent sparkling lake views.

Inside is classic cottage style that is anchored by a Rumford fireplace and consists of a bedroom, a living room with a library nook, a kitchen room, and a small loft.

Inspiration from architect:

While modernist architectural ideals are at work, the design is a playful reinterpretation of the humble architectural vernacular found on these islands.

The building is designed with plenty of dual function: exposed rafters provide additional storage, a dining-room cabinet doubles as an outdoor tool shed and the library windows roll open to convert the interior into a breezeway.