01/14/2026
We’d like to thank all of you for the overwhelming response to The Cottage, or as we know it, The Barlochan Cottage, from Heated Rivalry. We are proud that our work could be highlighted in such a great show.
We’d like to clarify a few points that continue to come up, and to share some brief context:
As with all of our residential work, this cottage was commissioned for personal use and developed over many years with an exceptional client. It was not created for the show. The home has existed and will continue to exist and to be enjoyed by the family who put their heart and soul into it. We respectfully ask that it, and our clients, be treated as such.
Despite its openness and glazing, the cottage was designed for privacy: to see nature, not to be seen. It is carefully sheltered by the landscape and difficult to locate from the lake.
Glass, when used properly, is a powerful tool. Thoughtful solar orientation, highly insulated and airtight envelopes, geothermal heating in lakes, and passive cooling strategies all contribute to long-term performance.
What does “cottage” mean? A cottage is an idea, places where families retreat to reconnect with landscape and each other. Size is irrelevant. What matters is memory, continuity, and belonging.
We hope this provides some clarity and we thank you for the thoughtful discussion.
— Trevor McIvor Architect Inc.
