While stumbling across the perfect waterfront property sounds like a dream, for Stephen and Andrea Johnston it was a combination of adventure with a vision. In 2016, the Johnstons found a small, three-bedroom cottage built in the early ’70s, with green carpets, linoleum flooring, classic yellow and orange floral wallpaper – and fantastic long lake views. Their vision was the selling point of this property, and the Johnstons brought that vision to life.
The picturesque cottage they built stands as a shining example of the finest in hand-crafted, custom-built retreats. Andrea and Stephen poured their heart and soul into constructing this breathtaking 4,800-square-foot home. They personally handpicked timbers from 100-year-old Ontario barns, and selected granite from quarries in the region for the cottage’s three custom fireplaces. Reclaimed hemlock flooring and Eramosa limestone in the grand entrance and Muskoka room add to the home’s unique warmth and character, while mahogany windows and doors provide expansive views of the lake from every room.
Stephen’s background as a builder, combined with his extensive experience in the Muskoka landscape, gave him the knowledge to make the best decisions for the property and his family. He used the most energy-efficient structure, chose stunning detailed finishes both inside and out, made great use of the land and created a low-maintenance property. Each detail and decision worked toward creating a lakeside haven that harmoniously blends into its surroundings. The property boasts many features designed to offer luxury, privacy, and ample opportunities for outdoor adventures, relaxation, and entertainment.
Andrea explains, “We designed the house for entertaining and family gatherings.” To make the home comfortable and welcoming to family and guests, there are four self-contained bedrooms, each with its own ensuite and walk-in closet, for optimal privacy; but she also designed several great gathering spaces both in and outside the home. Some of those gathering spaces include a great room, bar, games room, Muskoka room, outdoor kitchen, lakeside firepit, gym, a home theatre with a walkout to the granite patio overlooking the gardens, and most importantly a chef’s kitchen.
The Johnstons love to cook, so the kitchen design was important. They know the kitchen is the heart of the home, and often find family and friends gathering around the island sharing stories and making memories. This kitchen is an entertainer’s dream, featuring a Wolf gas range, stunning marble counters and backsplash, built in SubZero fridge and freezer, undercounter ice cabinet, apron sink, wine fridge, built-in Miele convection steam oven, prep sink and a Bosch built-in coffee station (Stephen’s favourite appliance). As the heart of the home, the design of this kitchen truly makes entertaining easy, with every detail considered. Andrea had an image in her mind, and Stephen’s meticulous attention to detail brought it to life.
Although the kitchen is the heart, Stephen says his favourite place to be is the Muskoka room. The glass walls open to bring the outdoors in, and the porch is conveniently surrounded by automatic screens to keep the bugs out. Most mornings start in the Muskoka room, and evenings come to a close relaxing by the warmth of the gas fireplace. It is the perfect place to take in the view, listen to the loon calls crying over the lake, and enjoy the beauty of the glistening water, stunning granite outcroppings and majestic pines lining the shores of the bay. “It’s the most relaxing room in the house,” he says.
While the beauty of the property can easily be seen, the Johnstons also wanted to ensure it was functional. Stephen says, “Having a low-maintenance, energy-efficient home was important to us, so we chose ICF construction, installed EnviroShake roofing, and added heat-blocking film to the great room windows.” Along with the energy-efficient and low-maintenance construction, extensive landscaping with built-in irrigation adds to the beauty of the property. The result is a cottage that’s perfect for coming up on the weekend and relaxing rather than working.
the result is a warm, inviting family retreat that encapsulates the long lake views that stole their hearts.
This Lake of Bays retreat is a truly exceptional property that caters to those who value privacy, luxury, and the beauty of nature. With its beautiful design, attention to detail, and range of amenities, it is sure to impress even the most discerning buyer. Stephen’s masterful craftsmanship shines through in every aspect of the property, providing a serene and luxurious lakeside experience like no other.
The Johnstons spent much time deliberating on their design, and the result is a warm, inviting family retreat that encapsulates the long lake views that stole their hearts. Whether you are a family looking for a place to escape the stresses of daily life, thinking of retiring or relocating to Muskoka, or looking for an investment property, this cottage has something for everyone.
