Four exceptionally crafted Nova Scotia cabin hideaways offer distinguished architectural getaways:
Over the past four decades, MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects has left an indelible mark on Nova Scotia's architectural landscape. This esteemed practice, which originated in teaching and physical construction, has crafted an impressive collection of vernacular-inspired contemporary houses in the region.
Dating back to 2002, the firm was established by Brian MacKay-Lyons in 1985. In 2005, Talbot Sweetapple joined as a partner, solidifying the firm's partnership. Today, Melanie Hayne and Shane Andrews have also joined the roster of partners.
Recent projects include the El Aleph Guest House, a winner of the Architects' Directory Design Award 2025, the Chester House, the cabins on Bigwin Island in Ontario, a private ski house in the United States, and Mountainside, an expansive ski retreat in Utah.
Their latest project is a cluster of four rental cottages, known as Ridge On The Chimney, built for local client Scott Fitzgerald. These wooden gabled structures, located on the west coast of Cape Breton Island near Chimney Corner, boast stunning views of Chimney Corner Beach and the Northumberland Strait. Inspired by local 'bunkies,' or cabins, the cottages are compact yet offer cozy accommodations for up to six people.
Each cottage integrates carefully placed porches and pitched roofs without overhanging eaves, reflecting local barns and fish shacks. Fitzgerald, who grew up in the area, has ensured that the interior showcases local craft and furnishings, honoring Cape Breton's heart and soul.
The floorplans balance small bedrooms with spacious kitchen, dining, and living areas, perfectly positioned to take advantage of the breathtaking views. A communal area outfitted with a firepit, barbecue, and outdoor seating encourages bonding among visitors while preserving the retreat's serene atmosphere. MacKay-Lyons led the design team alongside project architect Shane Andrews, a testament to the firm's commitment to producing quiet, robust structures that harmonize with their surroundings.
Future enhancements to the site include a spa, more cottages, and even larger private homes. MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects is well-known for embracing cultural responsiveness to local landscapes, climates, and material cultures. Their work is recognized for its poetic, sensitive architecture, often characterized by quiet strength, simplicity, and honesty.
[SOURCE: MLSarchitects.ca, @MackayLyonsSweetApple]
[BOOK YOUR STAY AT: ridgeonthechimney.com]
- MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects have also ventured into home-and-garden and travel projects, as evidenced by their latest endeavor, Ridge On The Chimney, a cluster of four rental cottages boasting stunning views of Cape Breton Island's coastline.
- The lifestyle offerings of MacKay-Lyons Sweetapple Architects extend beyond residential properties, with their recent travel project, Ridge On The Chimney, promising peaceful retreats with local charm and breathtaking landscapes.
