COTTAGE & GARDEN

Afamily’s place toGather

Above: The Grahams said they wanted plenty of - Sparrow Lake home reminiscent of facing windows and Tech Home Ltd. came through with century-old cottage that once sat there fl oor-to ceiling windows on the main fl oor and large windows in the lower level main space and offi ce. Left: This was the original cottage that Susan Graham’s family once rented then purchased. STORY BY KIM GOGGINS | PHOTOS: CODY STORM COOPER PHOTOGRAPHY (Photo courtesy Bryan and Susan Graham)

56 MUSKOKA LIFE AUGUST 2017 MUSKOKA LIFE AUGUST 2017 57   “It was always family oriented with my parents.    We had great family dinners on that porch.”

t was an old cottage that had perhaps of the cottage at about 40 feet long. With seen better days. Small and weathered, a dining and living room space, and a Iwith an aging infrastructure, the woodpile, it wasn’t fancy by any means but 110-year-old building that sat on the north this is where Susan remembers the most shore of Sparrow Lake in a cosy little cubby fun, with many family dinners and games known as McLean Bay wasn’t perfect by around the dining table over the years, any means. But it was a piece of history before and after her parents purchased it in for one family, decades before they even 1978. purchased it. “It was always family oriented with Susan Graham was just a wee girl of fi ve my parents,” notes Susan. “We had great when her parents fi rst rented the cottage in family dinners on that porch.” 1957 and then again when she was eight. When she and her husband Bryan During those brief times in the summer, she and their three children came to visit, and her two brothers spent hours down by they all shared a ‘family bedroom’ that Susan and Bryan Graham put a lot of thought into their dream home that sits on the shore of the lake - swimming, fi shing, chasing frogs accommodated an army bunkbed, army Sparrow Lake, where her family’s cottage once – doing things that make great memories cot, an iron-framed double bed and a did. The home was built to accommodate friends although you don’t realize it as kids. dresser. and family. “My mom always loved it because it had One brother, his wife and children shared four bedrooms and a fi replace and it was on another room, and her other brother and Dark taupe siding and bright white trim is a refreshing curb change to the 110-year-old bun- the water and my dad loved to fi sh,” recalls his wife slept on couches. Little did they galow that stood there before it. The fl agstone Susan. know at the time that the fl oors were being walkway leads to a welcoming covered deck and Most importantly, the old cottage had a held up by rotting pine stumps. main door. Note the perennial gardens cleverly screened-in porch that spanned the front The sleeping arrangements didn’t matter tucked into Muskoka stone.

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MUSKOKA LIFE AUGUST 2017 59 as much as the time spent together, notes Susan, and it’s this philosophy that she and Bryan have carried forward in their new waterfront home on the same spot. Intelligent, individualized comfort. “There weren’t too many parts we were able to incorporate into this new (build) but accommodating family we can,” says Bryan. “It’s still the family cottage to (my brothers) and they know they can come up when they want to,” adds Susan. As her parents aged, Bryan and Susan kept the cottage going so it only made sense that they purchase it from them once they retired. Even before that time came, Serta has redesigned the iComfort® Sleep System from the the couple started researching builders and inside out to intelligently respond to your body’s individual designs in 2002, and fi rst approached Fred Haas and his son Stephen of Tech Home needs for comfort, support and temperature regulation. Ltd., a custom home builder on Highway 11, just south of Gravenhurst. “On occasion, Susan’s parents wondered aloud, ‘we haven’t left yet, we haven’t sold Top: The covered deck is a great it to you and you’re looking for builders,’” way to stay out of the sun while recalls Bryan with a chuckle. “We hadn’t watching the kids swim and use the got to the tearing down part at that point non-motorized boats. The original boathouse (beside yet but we were looking at all the options.” the covered deck) was re-clad and Over the next seven years, they looked Bracebridge Huntsville re-roofed by Bryan and Susan’s at other designs and went to cottage shows 6RobertDollarDrive 67 Silverwood Drive brothers. and toured cottages. They even thought Bracebridge, ON P1L 1P9 Huntsville, ON P1H 2K2 Above: No matter how nice the cot- about purchasing another property for tage is, being down by the water is Telephone: (705) 645-2279 Telephone: (705) 789-5589 where it’s at. their dream home, but they always came Right: Grandchildren are certainly back to Tech Home. welcomed and spoiled here. The They made it clear to Fred and Stephen Regular Hours: two eldest grand daughters are that the new design had to incorporate Mon - Thu 9:30 AM - 6:00PM spending at least fi ve weeks here Friday 9:30 AM - 8:00PM the ambiance of the screened-in porch. this summer! Saturday 9:30 AM - 5:30PM They wanted an open concept design so

Photo courtesy Bryan and Susan Graham) Sunday 10:00 AM - 400PM

60 MUSKOKA LIFE AUGUST 2017 SPECIALIZING IN LIGHTING, DESIGN & DÉCOR SERVICES

Th ey wanted an open concept design so they could entertain and a large enough dining area to accommodate 20 or more people. LIGHTING • FURNITURE • BEDDING • DÉCOR

Above: The welcoming and spacious foyer they could entertain, and a large enough the walkout level on the right and a hallway features a painting of sunfl owers by ‘Carlo’ dining area to accommodate 20 or more to guest quarters and washroom to the left. that the Graham’s children abhor. It was a people when necessary. Most importantly, “It’s like driving from Bracebridge over purchase for $100 about 45 years ago and Susan and Bryan refuse to part with it. “We they wanted windows, windows and more to Port Carling and you’re driving through love it because it’s a memory. Poor Carlo windows. that rock cut,” explains Bryan. “That’s what has seen some pretty rough times in the “We wanted the ‘wow’ factor when you it reminded us of.” cottage but I must say he’s done exception- walked in and this is it, all opened up and Wide-planked engineered hardwood ally well,” laughs Bryan. “He deserved a you can see the water and the gardens,” begins from that point and fl ows good spot.” notes Bryan. throughout the home. FULL SHOWROOMS, DESIGN SERVICES & LIGHTING CONSULTANTS Susan and Bryan wanted their formal dining From that very spot in the spacious foyer, Straight ahead, a wall of right-angled Visit us at: www.urbanrustic-living.com & www.thelighthousemuskoka.com area to be spacious to they could bring in 18-inch tiles, evocative of the Muskoka windows with large glass garden doors another dining table from the sunroom if stone around them, gives a rustic edge lead out to an ample deck surrounded by more than 12 were dining. This refurbished 705.788.2612 & 705.788.7478 15 Main St. W. & 20 Main St. W. Huntsville to the modern design of the home. The tempered glass for an unimpeded view table that belonged to Bryan’s parents is 123 Medora St., Port Carling NEW LOCATION approximately 150 years old. inviting area features stairs going down to of the lake. The craftsman-style windows

MUSKOKA LIFE AUGUST 2017 63 THE MUSKOKERY

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The owners wanted a ‘wow’ factor when people above offer further views and draw walked into their home and they achieved this light into the large living room that is with a wall of windows beneath a vaulted ceiling. emphasized by a cathedral ceiling. Although this room has a modern feel with an in- tegrated fi replace and pale walls, the vintage ele- Here, a built-in Napoleon gas fi replace ments give it a warm, charming feel. The large with sleek black marble surround contrasts coffee table was a gift from a friend who took nicely with the elegant muslin colour that the dining table from the old cottage and recre- highlights all of the walls in the house. The ated it to be a centrepiece of the living room. room is warmly appointed with modern The open-concept kitchen features a large island furnishings as well as cherished antiques for entertaining and gourmet-quality appliances, from the couple’s families, including perfect for feeding large crowds. artwork on the walls above and beside the fi replace, acquired from Bryan’s parents’ den. Th e gourmet kitchen is The large and unique wooden coffee Fireplace & Leisure Centre table in the middle of the room was a gift highlighted by a stainless from a friend who rescued the dining table Serving Parry Sound Fireplaces & Woodstoves Quality Barbecue Grills from the old cottage and cut it down to suit & Muskoka for 24 Years (Gas, Wood & Pellet) Outdoor Kitchens dishwasher, gas range and Chimneys Fire Pits its new purpose. WETT Certified Staff Fireplace Accessories Hatteras Hammocks Along the fl oor of this and every room Beachcomber Hot Tubs Modulex Home Packages refrigerator with ice maker, are the clean lines of custom six-inch white 1.888.334.8693 705.746.6800 www.fplc.ca 90 Oastler Park Drive, Seguin, ON water dispenser and double trim designed by Fred and cut with blades freezer drawers. he created. The attention to detail shows

64 MUSKOKA LIFE AUGUST 2017 MUSKOKA LIFE AUGUST 2017 65 Off the kitchen is the pièce de résistance It’s your dream. of the entire home: a 260-square-foot sunroom. We bring it to life.

This sunroom off the kitchen is pur- posely reminiscent of the screened- in porch of the former 110-year-old cottage. This is where the family gathers whenever they are home and where owners Susan and Bryan like to spend quiet time.

Susan’s elderly mother, Ruth, loved the new cottage and was lucky enough to have the only bedroom with a vaulted ceiling.

For 43 years, Tech Home has helped clients realize their vision of a beautiful and uniquely personal custom home. We build to the highest standards of quality at the most affordable pricing in cottage country. Visit our Gravenhurst Model Home or GTA Design Centre and we’ll bring your dream to life. The master bedroom is a soothing space with extensive views of Sparrow Lake. Gravenhurst Model Home Design Centre pride of workmanship that is evident area is fi tted with a second dining table. hung by black metal rods complements the 2278 Hwy 11 N. 130 Konrad Cres, unit 18 throughout. “We love formal dinners,” says Susan. contemporary look of the black metal stools Gravenhurst, ON P1P 1R1 Markham, ON L3R 0G5 “We can’t say enough about our “The table seats 10 comfortably but we’ve with gold seats. builders,” says Susan. “We have never built had as many as 12. Some would have their The gourmet kitchen is highlighted 1-888-417-8761 (905) 479-9013 like this before and they made it easy for us. legs on either side of a table leg but it’s by a stainless dishwasher, gas range and They were wonderful. We told (Fred) what better. We love it that way.” refrigerator with ice maker, water dispenser our idea was and he went with it and we And when family and friends are over, and double freezer drawers. It will be the love it.” the open-concept kitchen with six-by-four- perfect place for cookies and crafts when Steps away, the ceiling lowers to create a foot island allows for people to gather for their four grandchildren visit over the more intimate dining area and showcases drinks and appetizers before the more summer, two of whom will visit them for a refurbished antique wooden table – as formal meal takes place. several weeks, this summer. old as – that came from Bryan’s The dark mocha base of the island Off the kitchen is the pièce de résistance parents’ home. Stretched out with two balances the bright white of the handcrafted of the entire home: a 260-square-foot leaves, the vintage set can accommodate a maple cabinetry and showcases the even sunroom, surrounded by windows and Quality custom homes and cottages for over 40 years dozen people and when the holidays come pattern of the taupe granite counter with swathed in tongue-and-groove cedar on the around and more are home, the spacious fl ecks of browns and golds. Pendant lights walls and ceiling to celebrate memories of www.techhomeltd.com

66 MUSKOKA LIFE AUGUST 2017 1080 Taylor Court, Bracebridge The master bath is a relaxing retreat. 705-645-1575 www.thefirewithinmuskoka.ca OUTDOOR LIVING SALE UP TO 50% OFF SELECT ITEMS Premium BBQ’S By: Saber • Green Mountain Caliber • Twin Eagles Delta Heat • Black Olive Built-In & Free Standing Complete Kitchen Systems Gas, Propane, Pellet, Charcoal & Electric cot’tage the cottage they knew and loved. The sign Th e attention to ‘Pate’s Place,’ made by Bryan for his father antiques • vintage • today in law, was taken from the former cottage detail shows pride of Quality Furniture By: 111-4 Medora Street, Lakeside, Port Carling • 705-765-5858 and hangs proudly over the centre window workmanship that is #cottagetoday • Cabana Coast in this room. Thick double insulated sliding glass evident throughout. doors framed in grey are used to keep the • The Fire Within cold from the unheated room in the winter • Great Outdoor Company from wafting through the house, but they are rarely used. towels that are laid out in a woven basket • Nusantara Teak “We don’t close the doors at night. When on the rim, as well as two paintings on the LUXURY we fi rst moved in on Jan. 19, 2015 we did wall created by Susan’s late mother, Ruth. VERSATILITY | STYLE • Pergolas and in the morning it was chilly,” recalls This same tile is carried into the stand- Susan. “But now we don’t because it’s so alone shower with glass enclosure. Chrome nusantara-teak.com well insulated. It’s great. If it’s a little chilly fi xtures including a toe tester bring some we’ll just fl ick on the little heater we have in sparkle to the neutral palette of this fully- there for a short time.” enjoyed oasis. Firepits • Fire Tables By: Having the morning and afternoon sun Guests have their own main-fl oor streaming through the windows helps to quarters with two spacious bedrooms and • Northbound Elements heat the space but also offers abundant a bathroom down a hallway off the foyer. • Great Outdoor Room light for reading and knitting, as well as the Ruth enjoyed the spacious bedroom with Company many games played at the table behind the vaulted ceiling facing the landscaped road sofa. side of the home until her fi nal days. Her Full Complement Of This very well could be the most used prized paintings and handmade quilts are room in the 1,835 square feet of fi nished joined by other family heirlooms in this Accessories For Your space on the main level. room and throughout the home. Outdoor Living Space Patio Well … almost. Across the hall, a three-piece washroom The serene master suite that offers its with corner shower and vanity with Heaters/Lanterns & Artwork own wall of craftsman-style windows granite counter, similar to the vanity in the overlooking the water is a roomy space ensuite, provides ample space and privacy. with his and her double closets, tasteful The fl oor tile in here is the same as the furnishings and a spa-like ensuite that foyer except smaller, 12-by-12-inch pieces. NEW invites relaxation. The corner soaker tub is The guest room in between is large enough surrounded by lengthened subtle grey tile for a bunkbed with a queen mattress on the with a tinge of teal that is picked up in the bottom and single on top.

68 MUSKOKA LIFE AUGUST 2017 MUSKOKA LIFE AUGUST 2017 69 NDOW WORK WI MUSKOKA S Your Window and Door Specialists

CELEBRATING 30 YEARS!

To honour their family, a pine tree has always been planted for each child born. These trees Window Works (Muskoka) is proud to represent the four grandchildren, while their chil- dren’s much larger pine trees are on the other celebrate 30 years of serving Muskoka and it’s side of the yard. surrounding communities. We provide consultation, sales, service and installation of quality products. Our knowledgeable sales people work with architects, designers, builders In the 1,785-square-foot lower level, a and home owners, assisting clients in making family space that can easily accommodate their three adult children and grandchildren the best choices for their new construction is in the works with a cosy family room and gas fi replace. Nine-foot ceilings with doors or renovation projects. stretching eight feet ensure that no one will feel like they are in a basement. This level The advantage of working with Window Works is also highlighted by extra storage space. This level brings the gardens and (Muskoka) is that we provide a diverse selection waterfront within reach and the Grahams of product, giving us the flexibility of being able to have been taking advantage of their covered fl agstone and small stone terrace suggest what is right for the design and budget to give them the same view and feeling of your project. We offer clad exteriors, with the they had at the former cottage. The walkout gives them easy access beauty of wood interiors and maintenance-free to the extensive perennial gardens they have worked on for about 30 years and vinyl products. include Lily of the Valley and Evening Primrose from Bryan’s parents’ gardens in 2358 Hwy#11 N, Gravenhurst, Port Credit, as well as plants from Susan’s [email protected] family. “These fl owers down here are called Soloman’s Seal and Jacob’s Ladder and www.windowworksmuskoka.net they came from Sue’s grandfather from a bulb that was probably about a hundred years old at the time we got it,” says Bryan, Tel: 705-687-7617 • 1-800-668-9858 pointing to a garden tucked beside a granite 705.687.2499 outcropping. MUSKOKACUSTOMCABINETS.COM Further towards the water, a wooden playset attracts the young grandchildren, while the adults still love hanging out on 100 PROGRESS ROAD, GRAVENHURST ON P1P 1X4 | F: 707.687.7899 | [email protected] the covered deck by the original boathouse SHOWROOM OPEN: MONDAY-FRIDAY 9AM-5PM | SATURDAY 9AM-NOON | AFTER HOURS BY APPOINTMENT after all these years. It’s the perfect blend of new experiences and old memories.

70 MUSKOKA LIFE AUGUST 2017