Page 75 - Designing Ways 283

A dynamic mix of two types of timber gives the ground level a sense
of boldness, with wide-plank Douglas fir on the floor and straight-
grained larch encasing the half-turn stairs leading to a catwalk
hallway. The golden-brown larch is repeated on the kitchen cabinetry,
where it is paired with slabs of honed charcoal bedrock on the
countertops, backsplash, and range hood. This rich palette is further
enhanced with an open aluminum shelf for stacking dishware. An
island kitchen, also in aluminum, is surrounded by nubuck leather
counter stools.

The primary bedroom and ensuite embrace a more subdued mood,
with walls painted in a textured sea salt hue, and woven linen window
coverings diffusing dappled light. The bed frame is tightly upholstered
in wool suiting, with a millwork piece set away from the wall to allow
for an alternate passageway to the ensuite bathroom.

At every turn, abd has paid close attention to sensory experiences
that enhance the sweet comforts of living easy. In the ensuite, the
studio devised an extended metal towel rack with a resting tray for
burning incense. Privacy is also considered, with glass pocket doors
in the bar lounge to buffer television noise, and an upholstered pod
area near the living room that is ideal for children to hang out.

With its ageless style and meticulous attention to refinement, this
family retreat is destined to grow more layered through use and
memories, evolving into a beloved home for generations to come. dw

Technical sheet
• Abd design team: Ashley Botten, Sarah Valentic, Haleigh
Carter, Morgan Leeder
• Location: Muskoka, Ontario, Canada
• Size: 9000 square feet
• Builder: Tamarack North
• Completion: 2024
• Photo credit: Patrick Biller

www.ashleybottendesign.com

The bed frame is tightly upholstered in wool suiting with a millwork piece set away
from the wall to allow for an alternate passageway to the ensuite bathroom.

dw • Issue 283 75