Wood Frame Construction Technology:Watershed Researchers’ Station
This project explores and practices the wood frame construction technology used in North America. Located at the Ken Reid Forest of the Kawartha Conservation Area at the northern edge of Lindsay in Ontario, this cabin is designed for researchers and students engaged in field trips within the forest, featuring a modular and adaptive approach.
Instructor: Ted KesikTime: November - December, 2023
Site Context
Goose Bay is located at Ken Reid Forest of the Kawartha Conservation Area at the northern edge of Lindsay. Featuring the watershed condition, there are wetlands in this area and the flood and low water status are monitored throughout the year. The cabin is positioned at the tip of a scenic peninsula, where the trail bends, offering breathtaking views of Goose Bay and enveloped by abundant vegetation.
The Cabin
This project is a watershed wood cabin used by researchers and students engaged in field trips within the forest, accomodating 4 to 8 people in a compact manner. The cabin will be seasonal and the use from November to April will be limited due to freezing in the winter. The cabin will be elevated above ground due to seasonal flood condition, featuring a wooden deck and a boat dock for water access. Shed roof is used to deal with snow load during the winter.
The cabin's design consists of three designated modules, offering flexibility for prefabrication and potential site expansion. Each module will encompass an area of approximately 11’x8’, and the deck expands 36’x16’. The first module at the east end has a large window facing the bay, perfect for watching the sunrise, and serves as a communal living room and kitchen space. The second module in the middle serves as a living room and consists of a washroom with shower provided. The third module at the west end will be a 1.5-storey loft accomodating 3 to 5 people. More people could also be accomodated by placing tents or sleeping bags in communal area or even on the deck to form a safe and compact camping space.
The construction materials for both the decking and the cabin will mostly consist of dimensional lumber. A structural glass window will be used on the eastern facade as a lookout point to the lake. The exterior facade will be using burnt wood siding. The interior will be using the wood’s natural color to create a warm, cottage-like atmosphere.
