It all started because the owners wanted to expand the capacity and functionality of their existing camp of cottages at their well-used and beloved lakeside retreat. This home is now the hub of the camp, surrounded by three other pre-existing log cabins. It now enables their entire multi-generational family to gather together for lakeside fun and enjoyment with plenty of space for everyone.

What they have created is a charming timberframe cottage with a distinctly nautical vibe that will be happily used by many generations of the family for years to come.

This project is a great example of how a traditional timberframe structure can look fresh and vibrant as opposed to feeling overly woodsy.  This was achieved by making the walls and ceilings in the open areas a fresh vibrant white. This keeps the natural light as effective as possible, while showing off the contrasting timbers and allowing them to be the star of the show.

A nod to the owners penchant for a vintage-retro vibe was created in the kitchen, with its fresh buttery yellow cabinets and punched ‘pie-tin’ pantry door front, contrasted with classic white subway backsplash and black countertops.

The powder room echos this same feel, with its standout yellow vanity and floral print wallcovering, creating an inviting and lively space for guests to enjoy.

The Den contrasts the brightness of the main part of the house, by enveloping the owners in a deep blue coziness, creating an ambiance reminiscent of a boat house. This room is mainly used at night for watching TV, so the decision was made to create a more intimate and warm mood in the space. But the dark walls and ceiling are kept from feeling overly heavy because the painted floorboards and light colored upholstery offset the darkness and keep the overall feeling light and bright. This is a great example of how a dark paint can enhance the desired atmosphere in a room.

The cottage feel extends throughout the house, including the charming master bedroom with its own painted brick fireplace and painted shiplap walls, complete with painted floorboards. The feeling harks back to early east-coast homes but with a more modern and muted color palette. The master ensuite bathroom picks up on the soft blues of the bedroom, with a bolder pattern on the floor to reinforce the feel of vintage

Pops of color and a mish mash of patterns appear throughout the house, to give the space a more lived-in cottagey vibe, while keeping things fresh and nautical. This is seen in a built in bench in the upper hallway as well as in the daughters bedroom, which has whimsical floral wallcovering and a funky hand-painted chequered floor.

The owners say “we wanted to have a place to come where the whole family can kick back and relax and get away from city life and the craziness of typical day-to-day schedules of the family; this place really has given us a place to get a way from it all and put the watch away!”

We completely agree. Just another example of how we Make Life Beautiful both literally and figuratively!

You can view the full gallery of New Brunswick Cottage here.