Thom Fougere Studio

Private residence    PINE ISLAND COTTAGE    2020-2024


Nestled on a remote island in the heart of Georgian Bay, Ontario, Pine Island Cottage blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings. This serene family getaway unfolds as a series of gathering spaces that gently cascade along the island’s sloped stone formations.

At the core of the cottage, two elements anchor the experience of gathering. The first is the hearth, an expansive, double-sided feature that opens to both the interior and exterior, drawing people together regardless of season or time of day. The second is the kitchen island, crafted from split-facing stone and heavy butcher block - a place for preparing meals and shared conversations.

Mirroring the textural richness of the natural world, the interior is both rugged and serene. A rough stone to sit on, an unexpected bit of rain, this is the kind of friction that dissipates naturally when outdoors, bringing us into sync with nature. The texture of the wood grain walls, the sturdiness of the wrought-iron handrails, and the grip of the flamed stone underfoot all gesture at the notion of friction, rooting one in the moment and enriching an exchange with the space and nature.

Designed in close dialogue with the family over a four year period, Pine Island Cottage reflects how they live - a place to retreat and reconnect with nature.

Designed in collaboration with Adam Robinson
Photography by Alex Lesage
Project press release available here