A Legacy Project On-Schedule for Completion Just in Time for the 2026-2027 Ski Season The Craigleith Ski Club Base Lodge Expansion (BLE) is almost complete. After months of careful construction, collaboration, and craftsmanship, the 17,000+ square foot addition will be ready to welcome members to create memories for decades to come. Since we first announced our engagement with Craigleith Ski Club in May 2025, this project has been more than just a construction endeavor — it's been a continuation of a partnership that began over two decades ago when Normerica designed and built the original Base Lodge. Now, as we put the finishing touches on this expansion, we're proud to deliver a space that honors that legacy while setting the stage for Craigleith's future. From Groundbreaking to Grand Opening: The Journey Construction began in April 2025 with the removal of the existing South Lodge. Throughout the summer and fall, our team worked alongside Craigleith Ski Club (acting as General Contractor)and design partners Arcadis and Tacoma Engineering to bring this vision to life. The construction process showcased the advantages of advanced mass timber building techniques. Using prefabricated glued-laminated timbers (glulam), cross-laminated timber (CLT) elements, and prefabricated wall panels, we were able to maintain precision while minimizing on-site construction time — a critical factor given the project's ambitious timeline. The building envelope was completed by early December, including all roofing, siding, and exterior masonry. The construction paused during the 2025-2026ski season to minimize disruption for members, then will resume in April 2026for a planned opening for the 2026-2027 ski season. A Space Designed for Community The new Base Lodge Expansion (BLE) delivers on every promise made when the project was first announced. The addition seamlessly blends with the original timber frame structure while introducing modern features that enhance the member experience: Expanded Kitchen and Marche Area The kitchen facilities have nearly doubled in size, dramatically improving service speed and menu flexibility during peak periods. By filling in the existing second-level loading dock and expanding into the new lodge area, Craigleith will have the culinary capability members have been eagerly anticipating. New Adult Lounge A sophisticated space where adult members can unwind après-ski, socialize, and enjoy the warmth of timber-framed comfort with stunning views of the ski hill. 160 Additional Family Lockers Designed to accommodate both current families and those on the waitlist, these new lockers will provide the convenient storage and access that active skiingfamilies need. Main-Floor Convenience Washrooms Additional easily accessible restrooms will improve member comfort and reduce congestion, particularly during busy weekend periods. 300 Additional Indoor Seats More places to relax, connect, and enjoy meals with family and friends, all within a space that celebrates the natural beauty of timber construction. True to the original lodge's design, the expansion will feature bright glass walls, soaring ceilings, and open sightlines that blend indoor warmth with the spectacular landscape of Ontario's Blue Mountains. The Final Touches The last few months of construction have been particularly exciting to watch. Our team has been on-site putting the finishing touches on what is truly a beautiful build. The exposed timber frame structure— a hallmark of Normerica craftsmanship — creates an incredible sense of space and warmth. The combination of natural wood elements, thoughtful design, and modern amenities has resulted in a facility that exceeds expectations.   Building on a Legacy This expansion represents the latest chapter in a story that began in 2003 when construction started on the original Base Lodge. That 29,427 square foot timber frame structure, with its soaring Douglas fir timbers and cathedral ceilings, set the standard for what a ski club lodge could be. Subsequent additions in 2014 (768 sq. ft.) and 2016 (1,600 sq. ft. mezzanine) — both completed by Normerica — continued to enhance the member experience. Now, with this major expansion nearing completion, Craigleith Ski Club is positioned to serve generations of families with a facility that's both timeless and forward-looking. Sustainability Meets Performance Beyond functionality and aesthetics, the BLE represents a commitment to environmental stewardship. Mass timber construction — using renewable, low-carbon building materials — reduces the project's environmental footprint while adding strength, durability, and natural beauty. The prefabrication approach further reduces waste and enhances build efficiency, aligning with both Normerica's and Craigleith Ski Club's sustainability values. A Partnership Rooted in Ontario Ski Culture Since 1979, Normerica Building Systems has been at the forefront of timber frame design and construction across Ontario, with deep roots in the ski community. Our partnership with Alpine Ontario Alpin (AOA) as their official design and home builder partner reflects our long-term investment in fostering wellness, inclusion, and youth development through winter sports. The completion of the Craigleith Base Lodge Expansion reinforces our commitment to building spaces that bring people together and celebrate active outdoor lifestyles — spaces where families gather, friendships deepen, and memories are made. Ready for an Exciting Season Ahead With the expansion now nearly complete, Craigleith Ski Club members can look forward to an enhanced experience for the 2026-2027 ski season. From the expanded dining facilities to the new adult lounge, from additional family lockers to more gathering spaces, every element has been designed with the member experience in mind.

Normerica Timber Homes

Feb 19,2026  /  7 min read