Cotton Rock Lakehouse
Our team thrives on off-grid builds, and the Cotton Rock Lakehouse was one of our most rewarding challenges. Completely off-grid and accessible only by boat, the project required precise planning — when every material must be barged through Harrison Lake, forgetting a single item can cost a day’s work.
Coordinating with our clients, including an Air Canada pilot on a Vancouver–Dubai schedule, and securing trades willing to work remotely added extra complexity. The steep 4×4-only driveway meant all materials — concrete, framing, siding, roofing, and more — had to be barged to site. Our Red Seal Carpenter Rachel was on call through weather, forest fires and more to make this build come together.
We poured the ICF foundation through wintry, unpredictable weather, and a windstorm even toppled our site excavator, taking a full day of chainsaw work to clear. Through it all, our clients’ enthusiasm, kindness and endless ideas kept us motivated. They were passionate about eliminating wasted space, inspiring custom woodwork and built-in niches wherever framing allowed.
That same windstorm damaged the original small cabin’s deck next door, leading to a creative solution: connecting the two decks. Aligning the deck heights with both homes’ doors took careful coordination, but the result is seamless and functional. Together with the homeowners and mason, we also designed a welcoming outdoor fireplace with covered wood storage and countertop ledges on each side.
Finished with detailed Craftsman-style trim, the home is heated entirely off-grid by two wood-burning fireplaces and a propane unit on the main floor.
Despite the logistical hurdles, this project was pure joy. With thoughtful, hands-on clients and a hardworking crew, we created one of Harrison Lake’s most beautiful and resilient lakefront retreats.
