Designer Revamps Haliburton Highlands Cottage with Nature-Focused Elegance

A family from Burlington has transformed their summer retreat in the Haliburton Highlands into a stunning 4,000-square-foot cottage, featuring a design that seamlessly blends with its natural surroundings. After spending a decade in an aging cottage on the same site, the family decided to build a new home that reflects both elegance and a connection to nature.

The project, led by designers Keely Gow and Jackie Wilson of JK Studio, involved demolishing the old structure and creating a new one that resonates with its wooded setting. “The original cottage was small, old, and on piers,” Gow explained. “The owners had done minor repairs, but it didn’t make sense to invest in it further.”

Emphasizing Natural Beauty

The designers focused on maintaining a low-profile aesthetic, ensuring the new cottage would not appear intrusive. “We didn’t want it to look invasive or ostentatious on the exterior,” Gow stated. This vision led to an exterior clad in dark blue, accented by copper-coloured shakes that catch the eye without overwhelming the landscape.

Inside, the cottage embraces a “traditional cottage feeling,” as described by Gow. The interior features rich hues and textured materials that create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Chocolate-brown pine ceilings run throughout the main floor, paired with horizontal nickel gap MDF wall boards, which offer a more suitable alternative to traditional drywall.

In the kitchen, designed by Norcab Kitchen and Millwork, a blend of timeless off-white shaker cabinets and a striking chestnut-coloured hood vent form a central focal point. “For depth and character, the backsplash and countertops are antique brown granite in a leathered honed finish,” Gow noted. Although the family are not avid cooks, the kitchen serves as a heart for gatherings, embodying the essence of the home.

A Thoughtful Layout for Family Living

The primary suite, located on the main floor, features earthy olive walls and a wood ceiling, creating a peaceful retreat for the parents. The design continues into the ensuite bathroom, enhancing the overall sense of relaxation.

Downstairs, the space caters to the couple’s twin teenage daughters, offering four bedrooms, a bathroom, and a recreational area. This layout not only accommodates guests but also provides a lively space complete with a sofa, games table, reading nook, and a small bar.

The family witnessed the demolition of their old cottage on Labour Day and returned to see their new home just under a year later. “They could not have been happier. It’s their favourite place,” Gow shared, highlighting the project’s success. Not only was the cottage completed with an eye for design, but it also came fully furnished, with even the refrigerator stocked for their arrival.

This project underscores the importance of thoughtful design in creating spaces that feel both luxurious and connected to nature, making the new Haliburton Highlands cottage a perfect summer retreat for family gatherings.