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Overhead, an original plaster archway meets new ceiling joists at the intersection of the dining room and kitchen. The joists modulate the daylight that enters the kitchen from an expansive new skylight.

Occupants step down into the kitchen from the dining room. A run of cabinets with an integrated sink directly abuts the threshold between the rooms, where an original plaster archway also meets new ceiling joists.

Originally a scullery, this garden room connects to the back of the kitchen. The grooved timber wall conceals a powder room door.

Italian terrazzo distinguishes the conservatory-cum-kitchen from the house's original footprint, which Hale floored in white oak.

Walls of double-pane, tempered, laminated glass surround the upper living space furnished with Tolomeo lights by Artemide, vintage midcentury chairs, and a custom-made redwood burl table.

The facade is wrapped in custom-milled Douglas fir siding and punctuated with CommDoor black anodized aluminum windows. "We choose Douglas fir as our wood for the project for its warmth and ubiquitous heritage in Ontario cottage country," says Smirnis.

A short footbridge leads to the white, oak-and-glass front door of the upper living space. On the left is the small outdoor tap that uses pumped lake water.

One unique touch is the mural in the kitchen.

Riserless stairways connect the home’s three levels while allowing light to filter down below.