A peaceful, energizing summer retreat

Camp at Cabot Beach in Malpeque, Prince Edward Island was designed to address the needs of children from families affected by chronic illness and disability. The camp's program runs for three weeks every August, and thus this building was designed and built in a short four-month period in time for the annual midsummer tradition.

The simple form of the building focuses on natural day lighting and passive ventilation. The heavier southern wall is insulated to block out the hot summer sun and the noise of the active rural community, creating a comfortable retreat. The concept is to create a linear, axial plan that acts as a boundary line to define the realm of the camp with the edge of the forest across the playing field. Once campers pass across this line they are embraced by the camp bubble. This is the children’s escape. The camp facilities include private outdoor showers, separate washrooms for campers and staff, a large kitchen, and an open dining hall that can accommodate up to 100 campers and staff.