Rooted in the owners’ Canadian heritage, this project was imagined as England meets Muskoka—a refined lakeside retreat that feels timeless, grounded, and deeply connected to place. The couple sought a property they could easily drive to, an alternative to island living, while still offering the sense of escape they cherished.
The first phase focused on a significant renovation of an existing four-bedroom bunkie, setting the tone for a broader master plan on an exceptionally steep site. From the outset, we studied the topography carefully, shaping natural stone stairs that descend through the landscape to the boathouse and expanded dock below. The dock now accommodates three slips, with living space above, while the main cottage was thoughtfully extended and the buildings spaced to comfortably house family, extended family, guests, and staff.
Sunset views guided the placement of the dining room, where a repurposed original window frame became part of a pass-through, adding continuity and character from the cottage of the past. Electric, disappearing screens at the front porch and Muskoka rooms offer quieter moments, while an intricate stair weaves through the home—connecting generous second-floor bedrooms, a billiard room overlooking the lake, and a third-floor recreation space with an additional bedroom and bath—ensuring the house unfolds gracefully across every level.