Years ago my family had a cottage on a large lake in southern Ontario. I fondly remember taking leisurely boat cruises around the lake on warm summer days and admiring all the beautiful cottages. My favorites were the ones with boathouses (our cottage was very simple). I always imagined what it would be like to be lucky enough to be a guest in one for a weekend and to fall asleep listening to the sound of the water lapping the foundations. So today let’s take a look at some that are making me swoon.
This boathouse is one I could truly live in. It was designed in true Muskoka style and has been featured in House & Home Magazine.
It features a full guest house on the 2nd floor that is also used for entertaining.
The sofa and chairs in the living area are upholstered in outdoor fabric so they can be brought outside when needed.
Keeping with the light and airy theme the kitchen was done in all white.
This boathouse by Scott Bartholomew Architecture features boat and equipment storage at water level and a cabin and deck with a whimsical rope swing up top.
Inside the cabin, the designers used natural materials to enhance the feel of the natural setting.
There is a loft area over and behind the kitchen that is popular with the owner’s kids.
Outside the wrap-around deck is perfect for enjoying the lake views.
Here’s another Muskoka-style cottage boathouse built by Tamarack North Ltd.
The large deck is perfect for entertaining.
This boathouse by Hugh Lofting Timberframing features sustainable construction materials and takes its cues from coastal New England architecture of the late 1800s and early 1900s.
In the living areas wall to wall windows let in plenty of natural light and accentuate the views.
The galley kitchen makes for an efficient workspace.
This dreamy one-room boat house was built by AR Design Studio to be the owner’s escape from the main house.
The wall-to-wall windows help make the most of the views.
This boathouse designed by Stark Architects Inc. features a balcony off the living areas with a deck on the side.
The top deck is partially covered and features an outdoor fireplace for those chilly summer nights.
While this boathouse by James Ireland Architects doesn’t have a top deck there is lots of room on the dock for lounging.
The living area is simple with expansive views of the lake.
While this boathouse by Williams Partnership doesn’t have a formal living area, it still features simple boat storage and a covered outdoor patio area, and a dock for that all-important lakeside lounging.
Which cottage boathouse could you imagine yourself enjoying on a summer day?
For more swoon-worthy design and decor posts check out this one about Interior Stone Walls and this one on bathrooms and kitchens featuring Natural Wood Cabinets.
Karen
