Visit A Lakeside Home With The Charm Of A Tuscan Villa

Some places are simply unforgettable — whether it’s the architecture, landscape or the late-afternoon light, there’s something that stays with you long after you’ve left.

For homeowners Natalie Morrissette and Marcel Lessard, that place is Tuscany. “We love the natural elements in the architecture there,” says Natalie. “It’s rustique, as we say in French, but in an elegant and timeless sense.”

Natalie and Marcel — who have a 12-year-old daughter, Alice — were inspired to replicate that mood at their house in Hudson, a bucolic area 50 minutes from Montreal. Longing for a warmer, homey feel, they enlisted the help of Montreal designers Alexandre Blazys and Benoit Gérard of BlazysGérard, who injected the 4,000-square-foot space with plenty of Italian charm. Step inside this expansive Tuscan-inspired home.

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Natalie in the entrance, where oversized, symmetrical planters and lanterns add to the grandeur.

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An expansive iron chandelier plays up the drama of the double-height ceiling in the living room.

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The den, done up in a moody brown-grey grasscloth, is a favorite spot for family hangouts. “We added wooden beams and linen drapery for a farmhouse touch,” says Alexandre.

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A sofa reupholstered in green velvet echoes the leaves outside. Landscape artwork and objects look collected over time.

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The forest scene beyond the kitchen windows offers an inspiring view while cooking. Crema Delicato marble is a beautiful upgrade on the island, which was previously topped with wood.

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The dining area’s slipcovered chairs are on casters so they’re easy to manoeuvre.

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Natalie and Marcel at their secluded beach on Lake of Two Mountains. “We entertain on the beach a lot during the summer,” says Natalie.

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The principal bedroom is lavished with Italian touches. Grasscloth wallpaper and a handwoven rug are comfortable and enveloping.

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“We like to punctuate a traditional environment with black elements,” says Alexandre.

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“We added the archway to imbue a European vibe,” says Alexandre. “The copper tub cost a fortune, but it’s an amazing showpiece.”

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Timeworn pieces, such as a Grecian bust, luxe brass tray and apothecary tinctures, reinforce the home’s old world flair.