Enjoy 2 free articles a month. For unlimited access, get a membership now.

Away Cabins

Dexign Matter Studio

SAVE SUBMISSION
Bronze
Boat House Sleeping Area - Brian So
Boat House Living Area - Brian So
Boat House Dining Area - Brian So
Boat House Sleeping Area - Brian So

1 / 16

Comments
Innovation
Functionality
Creativity
Eco-Social Impact
Total
JURY VOTES
Hotel
4.85
6.28
5.18
6.40
5.68
Jing Ju
Jing Ju Senior Designer, Global Creative Visual Merchandising at Tiffany & Co.
5
7.71
5.18
6.68
6.14
Karim El-Ishmawi
Karim El-Ishmawi Managing Director and Cofounder at Kinzo
4.07
5
4.07
6.35
4.87
Wayne Turett
Wayne Turett Founder and Principal at The Turett Collaborative : Architecture and Interior Design
3.82
5.65
5.98
8.2
5.91
Valentina Mariani
Valentina Mariani Journalist and Art Curatour at Valentina Mariani
5
6.73
5.43
7.22
6.1
Pinar Harris
Pinar Harris Vice President and Principal at SB Architects
4
6
5
6.5
5.38
Jacques Chevrant
Jacques Chevrant UX Lead and Architect at Revalu
A clash of styles considering the a...
5
7
5.6
5.4
5.75
Cheng Gong
Cheng Gong Studio Director China at Snøhetta
5
7
5
7
6
Gerrit Vos
Gerrit Vos Founder and Creative Director at Workshop of Wonders
4
6
4
6
5
Alex Yang
Alex Yang Partner and Creative Director at MOC Design Office
Warm ambiance, comfortable space, o...
5.4
6.7
5.4
6.4
5.98
Hilde Francq
Hilde Francq Founder at Francq Colors Trend Studio
6.26
6.17
5.69
6.94
6.27
Andreas Weidner
Andreas Weidner Head of Retail at Silhouette Group
3.5
5.5
3.5
5
4.38
Sneha Divias
Sneha Divias Founder at Sneha Divias Atelier
5
5
5
5
5
Sheng Wang
Sheng Wang Founder and Design Director at Informal Design
6
6.5
6
6
6.13
Anthony Gargiulo
Anthony Gargiulo SVP Design Innovation and Transformation at Compass Group
Feels like home! Family friend and...
5.89
6.89
6.64
6.89
6.58
Client
Away Cabins, Debbie Fung, Jason Lu
Floor area
178 ㎡
Completion
2023
Budget
One Million Canadian dollars
Social Media
Instagram Facebook
Finishes
Finishes
Finishes

Innovation, functionality, creativity, and sustainability converge harmoniously in the transformation of five existing cabins into the captivating Away Cabins on Ontario's Rice Lake. Design Director Zoe Lee embarked on a journey to infuse these retreats with a unique blend of tropical allure and the cozy charm of local Canadian cottages.

Innovation:
Lee's innovative approach is evident in the structural elevation of the cabins. Addressing issues of low ceilings, the team removed drywall to reveal original structural roof beams, painted black for a visually striking contrast. Introducing new windows, including skylights and triangular windows, strategically illuminates each space with natural light, fostering a fresh and inviting atmosphere.

Functionality:
Functionality takes center stage as the project aims to create family-friendly getaways steeped in wellness. The redesign includes increased ceiling heights to alleviate the cabins' original dark and cramped feel. Bunk beds in two cottages optimize accommodation capacity, while a whimsical chalkboard wall invites creativity. The incorporation of yoga mats in each cabin and an outdoor yoga deck elevates the wellness aspect, offering guests a comprehensive and rejuvenating experience.

Creativity:
Lee's creative vision unfolds through the meticulous choice of materials and design elements. Shiplap-clad walls evoke the quintessential Canadian cottage vibe, while the use of rattan as the primary furnishing material seamlessly integrates the tropical design concept. Each design decision, from the unique bunk bed layout to the whimsical chalkboard wall, adds a touch of playfulness and creativity to the cabins, setting them apart as true standouts.

Sustainability:
The heartbeat of Away Cabins resonates with sustainability across various dimensions. Local sourcing champions regional economies while minimizing transportation emissions. Resource rebirth takes form through the salvaging and repurposing of materials, injecting character into the cabins and reducing waste. Innovative, eco-friendly materials showcase a commitment to responsible design, complemented by a conscious effort to minimize the carbon footprint through energy-efficient systems and environmentally friendly construction practices. The project's economic resilience ensures its longevity, benefiting both guests and the local community.

In summary, Away Cabins exemplify a design masterpiece where innovation, functionality, creativity, and sustainability converge to create a fresh, welcoming, and environmentally conscious retreat, setting them apart as true standouts in Ontario's cottage landscape.