Architectural Services Tailored for Waterfront Living
We offer a comprehensive suite of architectural and design services tailored to the unique demands of lakefront properties in Northern Ontario. From custom cottages and modern residences to boathouses, garages, and interior spaces, our team brings precision, creativity, and deep regional expertise to every project. Whether you're building a seasonal retreat or a full-time residence, we provide end-to-end design solutions that are functional, code-compliant, and visually timeless.
Custom Cottage Design
At Northaus, we craft bespoke cottage retreats that elevate lakeside living — designed for comfort, performance, and enjoyment in every season. Our custom cottages reflect the unique needs of each client and the natural character of the land.
Tailored Architectural Planning
Each design is created from the ground up based on your site, lifestyle, and architectural preferences — no stock plans or compromises.
Four-Season Readiness
Designs are engineered for both seasonal and full-year use with efficient building envelopes, snow-load considerations, and smart layout planning.
Integrated Recreation Spaces
We incorporate custom home theatres, recreational basements, indoor courts solutions for clients looking to blend relaxation with entertainment.
Modern Residential Homes
Designing full-time lakefront and rural residences that reflect a modern architectural sensibility while meeting the highest standards for performance and compliance. Our custom homes are created with precision, practicality, and aesthetic integrity — always tailored to the northern Ontario landscape.
Contemporary Custom Homes:
Clean, efficient layouts with open-concept living, natural materials, and a strong indoor-outdoor connection.
Energy-Efficient Performance
Homes designed for four-season durability with high-performance insulation, HVAC planning, and sustainable detailing.
BCIN-Certified Design Services
As registered BCIN designers, we prepare construction documents in full compliance with the Ontario Building Code.
Project Management & Quality Control
Northaus provides comprehensive project management solutions to ensure your vision is realized precisely, efficiently, and to the highest standard. Our services extend beyond design — we act as your trusted representative throughout construction, whether you're local or managing your build remotely.
On-Site Construction Oversight
Regular site visits to monitor progress, workmanship, and adherence to approved design specifications.
Milestone-Based Inspections
Evaluation of critical construction phases such as framing, waterproofing, insulation, and final finishes.
Reporting & Documentation
Progress reports, issue logs, and visual updates for remote clients
Post-Construction Review
Final walkthroughs to identify deficiencies and ensure project close-out aligns with client expectations.
Home Theatre Design
At Northaus, we offer bespoke home theatre design services that deliver a cinematic experience right within your cottage or residence. From architectural layout to acoustic optimization, every theatre is custom-engineered for immersive entertainment and aesthetic integration.
Whether it’s a lakehouse media room or a fully enclosed underground cinema, Northaus designs theatres that maximize performance, comfort, and lasting value — all backed by technical precision and creative flair.
Themed Spaces & Luxury Fit-Outs
From classic cinema styling to minimalist, modern lounges, each theatre is designed to reflect your personal taste and entertainment preferences.
Acoustic Design Expertise:
We apply advanced knowledge of acoustic engineering, room isolation, and sound reflection control to ensure the highest quality audio performance.
Fabric & Finish Selection
Premium finishes and acoustic fabrics hand-picked for both functional sound control and seamless integration with your interior aesthetic.
AV Coordination & Equipment Planning
Collaboration with audiovisual specialists to align equipment specs, wiring, and ventilation with the architectural design.
Shoreline & Accessory Structures
We design purpose-built accessory buildings tailored to shoreline and lot conditions. Our solutions maintain architectural cohesion while meeting Ontario Building Code (OBC) and local shoreline development guidelines.
Boathouses
Single or double-slip designs, integrated with dock systems, engineered for wave and ice conditions.
Detached Garages
Heated and unheated options for year-round access, storage, or workshop needs.
Guest Cabins & Bunkies
Small-scale accommodation that maintains privacy while complementing the main cottage.