
Modern, sleek, minimal. I love this concept for a cottage/boathouse because your focus tends to drift to the outdoors where the real magic is. Settled in a rocky enclave of seasonal, waterfront homes, Metrick Cottage is a one-storey, wood-clad, residence and boathouse on the shore of Lake Joseph, Ontario. This year-round retreat for a multi-generational family, draws inspiration from the rugged beauty that surrounds it to create a warm, elegant, and eco-friendly home. The design of the main cottage consists of three distinct yet connected ‘pods’ comprised of an open, communal space, flanked by private bedroom suites. The residence was carefully situated in the landscape so that the bedrooms face a stone ridge on either side, creating a visual boundary that extends the perception of space while providing privacy. At the same time, each pod is slightly angled from each other in order to capture the longest view from the central pod where the family congregates. Various textures of wood were used, from the semi-charred fir cladding to a torrified-ash that wraps the interior floors, walls, and ceilings. From the Lake, the cottage is designed to elegantly blend into the rugged terrain, while the boathouse maintains a quiet presence on the water. Designed by AKB Architects, built by Mazenga North, photography by Shai Gil.














Near the Yosemite national park entrance is AutoCamp Yosemite, a really cool setup that includes a mid-century modern clubhouse, a general store, swimming pool, and accommodations that includes Airstreams, luxury tents, basecamps and cabins. This looks like it would be sooooooo much fun to spend a weekend here. Designed by Lauren Geremia.
















Back in 2017 Jo shared some spaces that were done in rich yet muted colours by Belgian designer Natalie Haegeman. I was perusing her portfolio and was mesmerized by both her colourful and neutral spaces and wanted to share some more of her work here. So moody with lots of antiques and textures and patinas. Brilliant.



















Photography: Claude Smekens, Guy Obijn & Bieke Claessens

Last year Jo featured Sydney-based architect Daniel Boddam and spoke of his signature style: considered simplicity. I wanted to share another example of that approach with this beautiful modern home in Mosman, NSW. Considering architecture and interiors as one, Villa Carlo is a holistic, contemporary interpretation of the Californian bungalow – embodying my signature considered simplicity, drawing focus to artisanal craft and the clients’ coveted collection of art. Being a semi-detached dwelling, I sought to create a dialogue with its neighbouring counterpart; a white rendered brick home that was once more akin to a traditional bungalow. Key touchpoints create a considered spatial journey, starting from the custom brass pull to the entry door. A splice in the building envelope introduces a sliver of light where ascending meets descending; a refined and poetic gesture inviting a spirited interplay of shadow and light throughout the day. Villa Carlo is holistically designed with architectural and interior details forming a consistent and harmonious dialogue – the macro is in the micro. As patrons of the arts, the creative interest of our clients is reflected in the spirit of the house, which confidently interweaves art, living spaces, light and nature; an enduring and poetic outcome.

















This Bend, Oregon newly built home is so warm, cozy and overloaded with personality, perfect for a family. Lots of colour and texture and some granny vintage feels give this such a feel-good energy. Interior Design by Reath Design, Architecture by Bestor Architecture. Photographed by Laure Joliet.















