Cape Smokey LODGE

Situated along the rugged shore of Ingonish Harbour, the Cape Smoky Ski Lodge was conceived to pay homage to Celtic communities that earned Cape Breton the designation, “Celtic Heart of North America." Drawing inspiration from Atlantic Canada's unique vernacular history, the elongated wood clad volumes stand as a recognisable tribute to the quintessential artifacts of maritime history.

 Seemingly emerging from the mountainside, two skewed volumes formulate the massing of this project and give the appearance of a fractured landform through which mountain riders can fluidly transition from the hill into the building’s interior court. Once within, the floor to ceiling fireplaces serves as focal gathering points while wrapping the occupants in the warm ambiance of the fire. The glulam structure creates patterned elements that rhythmically fluctuate on either side of the built volumes. This undulating fenestration filters the natural light in ways that generate intimate moments within the larger communal spaces.

 The longitudinal sweeping roofs terminate in exaggerated overhangs that both protect the ski enthusiasts during time of rest while also creating a placemaking effect within the community. The cranked opening between the building volumes align with the coastline which acts as an extended invitation to both the passersby and the community at large.

Architecture and Design: Peter Braithwaite Studio Ltd. (Peter Braithwaite, Lucien Landry, Asma Ali, Jam Basilio) 

Rendering: Peter Braithwaite Studio (Jam Basilio, Kate MacKenzie, Peter Braithwaite)

Drawings: Asma Ali, Peter Braithwaite