Cottages
June 7, 2023
10 Great Moments From Canadian Summer Homes
Every summer, Canadians across the country can be found escaping to beautiful retreats, from beach houses in British Columbia to luxurious lakehouses in Muskoka. These dreamy spaces evoke a sense of calm, relaxation — and the feeling that summer has arrived. Here’s a look back at some of our favorite moments from Canadian summer homes.
A Quiet Reading Nook In A Lake Huron Retreat
A custom daybed off the great room in this Lake Huron cottage is a quiet spot for afternoon naps or reading. It also turns into a twin bed for weekend visitors.
An Inviting Country Yard In The Eastern Townships
“It’s in an area that’s more Hamptons than mountains, with pastoral fields, farmland and horses,” says Designer Luke Havekes of this hilltop summerhouse in Knowlton, Quebec. The lush backyard features a cozy firepit and a pool with lounge chairs.
A Breezy Hallway In A Muskoka Cottage
There are so many things to love about this breezy cottage designed by homeowner and designer Cory DeFrancisco, including a wood-clad hallway that offers a beautiful sightline into the sleeping quarters. Textured wood doors add warmth to the white hallway while a distressed rug brings a boho touch.
A Screened-in Porch On The Shores Of Georgian Bay
“My client calls this her favorite rainy day room. It protects you from the elements but lets you experience them,” says designer Emily Hollis. A wood-clad ceiling extends from indoors to out, making this space feel one with nature.
A Global-inspired Dining Room In Prince Edward County
In this serene beach house in Ontario’s wine country, designer Jennifer Ferreira drew inspiration from the natural, organic elements outdoors. Woven pendants and bespoke furniture give the dining area a Moroccan feel.
A Nautical Boathouse In A Muskoka Lakehouse
When designer Anne Hepfer was asked to reimagine her client’s boathouse, she zeroed in on the sheer romance of it— a slice of real estate that’s half water, half wood, where cottage memories are made. Bags and towels are always at the ready for a boat ride in this nautical space.
A Modern Firepit In A B.C. Cottage
Purchased before the house was built, this fire bowl was part of the inspiration for the overall palette of this summer home in Halfmoon Bay. A pair of loungers face the water, and pebbles break up the patio, nodding to the beach beyond.
An Old World Office In A Seaside Nova Scotia Home
In this historical East Coast home, an elegant corner of the studio serves as a summer office, complete with a working rotary phone. “There’s a romance to intimate task lighting rather than lots of ambient light,” says designer Colin Blanchard.
A Spectacular Sightline In A Bowen Island Retreat
“We were taken immediately by the raw beauty of it, and how the site connects to the ocean and moss-covered cliffs,” said the homeowner of this unique plot on Bowen Island. They wanted the home to be as unobtrusive as possible, leading the design firm to think outside the box. The dramatically framed view from the main staircase is a testament to their success.
An Outdoor Spa At A Muskoka Cottage
Lush greenery and the Canadian Shield run throughout this Muskoka property. After a long day at the cottage, an in-ground hot tub is the perfect place to relax and take it all in.