Sweet Nothings
This simple fisherman's cottage in Nova Scotia is a good example of vernacular architecture
One of the things I enjoy most about being an architectural photographer is the opportunity to learn to see, understand and appreciate the built environment in different parts of the world. To me, this means finding beauty and interest in even the most humble and simple buildings as well as those which are more sophisticated and designed by master architects. Vernacular architecture, or buildings done by someone without formal architectural training has always been particularly interesting to me. This simple fisherman’s cottage in Nova Scotia is a good example of the genre. Almost certainly built by someone without formal training in design, the house still has beautiful symmetry and lines. The sharply pointed dormer adds a touch of elegance to an otherwise austere structure. To many passers-by, I’m sure the house is nothing, but to me it is sweet and just right. A “sweet nothing” …
Fine Homebuilding Recommended Products
Fine Homebuilding receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.
All New Bathroom Ideas that Work
All New Kitchen Ideas that Work
Pretty Good House
View Comments
A charming house with human proportions. Looks like it was built 1870-1880 and it was well maintained ever since. I'm renovating a "fisherman's cottage" of this vintage - in Nova Scotia.
Lovely. Gothic revival cottage, I would guess, central steep-pitched gable, and as you say the only real detail is the pointed arch window. Cedar shake shingles, pretty well preserved. Late nineteenth early twentieth century publications aimed at farmers and fishermen occasionally featured such construction plans. Then again one could have just looked around for something similar to clone. Thanks for sharing.
Would this be on Cape Breton? The steeply pitched front gable is very common there as are clipped gables.It's a beautiful part of the world,come visit!
Looks great. Simple and elegant. I hope I manage to get 10% of that into my build.
Darrah, you mention "Late nineteenth early twentieth century publications aimed at farmers and fishermen". Do you know if any of these publications exist on-line? I'd love to see examples as I am looking for period-correct details for my rebuild.