It’s that time of year again, Summer Time! The season of rejuvenation and relaxation, and apparently, for me, it’s also time to write about summer vacation homes! Last June, I wrote a blog about the Stages and Spaces of summer living, offering you a snapshot of the varying types of spaces we enjoy vacationing in.
This year, I want to share one of the summer homes that we recently completed – we literally photographed it last week! This summer (and winter) getaway is located on Hecla Island, a beautiful provincial park located between the east and west shores of Lake Winnipeg.
In this blog I will share some of the key features we incorporated into this home to make it a special place for our clients.
Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Flow
Transitioning from indoors to outdoors (or a solarium space that feels like it’s outdoors) is a wonderful way to allow a more harmonious connection to nature. This wall of folding glass blurs the boundaries between interior and exterior.
Emphasize Wood and Stone
To enhance the rustic, contemporary feel of the home, we incorporated wood beams, pine feature walls & ceilings, and stone throughout the interior. These materials not only bring a touch of nature indoors but also provide a sense of warmth, authenticity, and timelessness.
Natural Light as a Focal Point
Natural light is a crucial aspect of any summer home design. Maximizing the use of windows and skylights to fill the interior of the home with an abundance of sunlight, creates an airy and open atmosphere.
A Hit of Colour
Oh, the Green! If there’s one thing we love above all else in this summer home, it’s the statement of the Green! Going for colour in major elements like cabinetry and fixtures (isn’t the tub amazing?!) may feel like a scary commitment, but it makes a bold statement! Colour also adds depth to the design while evoking a connection to the surrounding landscape.
A Bit of Glamour
Don’t be afraid to mix a bit of shine and glamour into a natural palette. Layering finishes and textures makes an interior far more interesting than adhering to a single theme. We jazzed up the ensuite by adding a glossy, geometric wall tile, installed in an organic pattern and juxtaposed it to a natural ledgestone. The luxe gold finish on the plumbing fixtures adds that touch of elegance.
Designing a custom summer home in a contemporary rustic style is a perfect way to merge the comfort of modern living with the tranquility of the natural world. By prioritizing making a connection to the outdoors, embracing natural light, incorporating colour, and layering textures, we designed a summer retreat that harmoniously blends with its surroundings.
If you’re thinking about building or renovating your summer space, don’t be afraid to unleash your creativity or connect with us and we’ll embark on this design journey with you.
Acknowledgments
Builder: Grindstone Renovations
Photography: Empire Photography
