Lake of Bays Cottage
Situated on a south-facing property on Lake of Bays near Baysville, Ontario, this two storey home has a walk-out basement on the lake side and was designed to take in the views year round. With teenaged children and a large extended family they wanted more space to accommodate guests and living spaces on each floor for a variety of different activities. They also planned to spend more time there when they retire and wanted flexility to allow them to do so in their retirement years.
Their wish list included bedrooms for their children, guest room, a master suite one the ground floor (initially a guest room but will become the master when they can no longer climb the stairs) and a more luxurious master suite on the second floor to be used now. They wanted a games room with TV on the lowest level, a living room with large wood burning fireplace on the main floor, ample dining space for large family meals and a well appointment kitchen. There is also a living space A screened porch is a requirement in cottage country and they had come to love their hot tub, which is now a feature in the screened porch. There is also a lovely deck off the second floor sitting area that provides a wonderful view of the lake. The large overhang on the south side shades the interiors at the hottest time of year.
The two storey living room space features floor to ceiling glass and connects the two volumes. The curtain wall wraps the kitchen, providing a panoramic view of the lake while the banquette provides a cozy spot to dine or read. Mahogany interior walls and ceilings adds warmth and richness to the interior spaces, balanced with areas of white to reflect the light where its needed. In spite of the volume the spaces are comfortable and tranquil, a wonderful respite at the lake.