REAL ESTATE

C OTTAGE H OME & P ROPERTY

November 2008

Showcase www.muskokacottagehomeproperty.com

Haven amongst the trees

www.muskokacottagehomeproperty.com
H UNTSVILLE • B RACEBRIDGE • G RAVENHURST • M USKOKA L AKES
L AKE OF B AYS • PARRY S OUND • A LMAGUIN • G EORGIAN B AY
Spas
H o t Tu b s
Po o l S u p p l i e s Black Rock
Re n t a l s
Pa r t s &
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Services

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w w w. h o t t u b w a r e h o u s e. c a i n f o @ h o t t u b w a r e h o u s e. c a Huntsville (705) 788-2612
 Because where you end up has a lot to do with where you start.

royallepagemuskoka.com
Your traditions begin here.

Bala Baysville Bracebridge Burk’s Falls Gravenhurst Huntsville Port Carling Sundridge
705-762-3410 705-767-3131 705-645-5257 705-382-5555 705-687-3474 705-789-9677 705-765-6855 705-384-2220
*
Brokerage,Independently Owned and Operated
C OTTAGE H OME & P ROPERTY Muskoka Magazine is published by

Showcase Cottage Country Communications, a

division of Osprey Media Publishing Inc.
which is a part of: 3 FINDING A REALTOR
Donald Smith
Publisher WHO WORKS FOR YOU
Melissa Kosowan By Allan Cook
Editor Published nine times per year:
February, April, May,
Matthew Sitler
Assistant Editor
June, July, August, September
October/November and December.
6 DESIGNS FOR LIVING
Andrew Hoshkiw
Staff Photographer Copyright© 2008,

Mary Lee Zimmer

Osprey Media Publishing Inc.
All rights reserved.
8 A GLIMPSE OF FRACTIONALS
Advertising Sales Manager
Donna Ansley
Reproduction of any material published
in Cottage Home & Property Showcase
is strictly prohibited without the written
IN MUSKOKA
Curtis Armstrong permission of the publisher. The
Gord Kidder
Laurie Johle
Martha Gillan
publisher assumes no responsibility
for unsolicited material.
Printed in Canada.
10 STEP INSIDE A FEW UNIQUE HOMES
Spence McGrath
Advertising Sales GST Number: 828666354RT0050
AND COTTAGES
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By Karen Wehrstein
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Kim Knight
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16 YOUR PANEL OF PROFESSIONALS
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Karen Wehrstein
www.cottagehomeshowcase.com
Contributors
For more information see inside back cover.

www.muskokacottagehomeproperty.com November 2008 1

 Bill McGrath Sher McGrath
Broker of Record Sales Representative
(705) 789-6568 (705) 789-1646
CL: (705) 788-4315 CL: (705) 788-8633

Cottage Country Realty Inc. E-mail: mcgrath@muskoka.com

Brokerage
www.c21cottagecountry.com

PRIVATE
FAIRY
LAKE
COTTAGE

FAIRY LAKE, HUNTSVILLE PENINSULA LAKE

6,500 sq. ft. executive waterfront property. 2 COTTAGE/HOME
hours from Toronto – 7 bdrms with ensuites. 40 miles of
This great pine lined cottage is absolutely
Owners’ separate suite. Large, great room. Boating on a 4
charming with level child friendly lot and south
Rec room on lower walkout. Quality lake system.
facing views for all day sun. 5 Bdrm plus a 2
throughout. Most furnishings included. bdrm bunkie Very private
Superb beach. Separate granny suite... lots of with wash- lot, well treed. Charming cottage with newer
room for extended fam- room. Double additions. Stone fireplace in dining room. 3
ily & guests. Superb car garage for Bdrms, Ensuite, 4 Pc and 2 Pc. Fully Winter-
location for golfers. all of the toys. ized. Lot is terraced to cottage and steps
Two stone fireplaces. 5 $789,000 down to a large u shaped dock and tanning
minutes to center of area. Hard sand bottom with great open lake
town. $1,695,000 views. $629,000

2 November 2008 Cottage Home & Property SHOWCASE

FINDING A REALTOR WHO WORKS FOR YOU
By Allan Cook
Muskoka is home to a wide range
of spectacular homes, cottages, and
properties. With the real estate avail-
able, the region also boasts a signifi-
cant number of qualified, profes-
sional real estate agents. Because
everyone is as different as the prop-
erty they may be looking to buy or
sell, the key to a satisfying experience
is finding an agent that fits your per-
sonality and needs.
Many people make the connection
through coincidence, like Arpad
Takacs, who Jim and Iris Gardiner of
Chestnut Park Realty in Port Car-
ling helped fulfill his 30-year dream
of owning a cottage in Muskoka.
“Maybe you can be lucky like me,”
he jokes through a thick Hungarian
accent. Takacs found his agents from

Photograph: Andrew Hoshkiw

his home in the GTA, while looking
at Muskoka properties online. “They
were the agents who had them listed,
so I called them up and asked them
if they could show some to me.”
One of the first things that
impressed Takacs about the Gar- Iris and Jim Gardiner of Chestnut Park help clients find the perfect home and don’t rush the process.

Shelley Henwood
Sales Representative Paul Pilon
Cell (705) 783-8777
Broker
Office (705) 789-6568
Fax (705) 789-8775 Bus: 705-789-6568
Cell: 705-783-0555
BEAUTIFUL NORMERICA TIMBERFRAME HOME paulp@c21cottagecountry.com B R O K E R A G E
Over 2 acres! Open concept, custom kitchen w/granite
counter tops & stainless steel appliances. Living & din-
ingroom w/floor to ceiling windows. 3 bdrms, 3 bthrms,
w/master loft offering views of Vernon Lake. Fully
Desirable Retreat Horn Lake
finished walkout lower level w/2 bdrms & recroom.
on Lake of Bays Retreat or Home
*Bonus* 280 ft. water-
front lot across the road
on Vernon Lake. 5
minute boat ride or
drive to downtown
Huntsville.
Asking $695,000.
www.century21.ca This is 3 bdrm
y o u r Vi c e ro y
chance on 14+
Wyatt for a a c re s
Williamson y e a r w i t h
Sales Representative
round o v e r
705-783-1061 cottage soaring pine ceilings, hard- 600ft of shoreline, offering park
Cottage Country Realty Inc. wood floors, stone fireplace, and like settings and lots of trails.
wyatt@c21cottagecountry.com Brokerage
well appointed pine kitchen all This custom home offers large
www.c21cottagecountry.com 29 King William Street, Huntsville Ontario
blending for a warm atmosphere pine living rm. with loft leading
1.58 acre level 20 acre parcel of with lots of windows complete with to the bedrooms, Oak kitchen
VERY DESIRABLE lot with frontage land encompass-
WATERFRONT South Exposure. Nicely landscaped open to the dining area, (perfect
on Buck and ing a 10 acre lake.
Fawn Lakes. Easy access with
flat lot with sandy beach and large for entertaining), Dry partial
Western expo- hydro and phone cribbed dock. Not to be out done, is a basement and attached insulat-
sure offering PRIVATE PARADISE! lines at property. triple garage with 2nd floor unfin- ed garage. Ideal for the person
long lake views $249,000 ished loft. A property for all ages on who wants it all.
and beautiful sunsets. Hard packed sand bottom with Also for sale, approx. 276 acres backing onto 200 acres of
child friendly beach area. Driveway is in. Hydro & tele- Crown land with lake/boat launch across the road for only
Beautiful Lake of Bays with 102 miles Ask Paul why Horn Lake has so
phone at the road and only 20 minutes to Huntsville. $299,000. Only 15 minutes from Huntsville. Call Wyatt of shoreline to explore. much to offer and is so unique.
$235,000 Call Wyatt 705-783-1061 to view 705-783-1061 Asking $895,000 Asking $495,000

www.muskokacottagehomeproperty.com November 2008 3

 diners was how hard they worked to
figure out what he was looking for.
“You know how it is. You have
something you have a taste for –
something you dream, right?” he
says. “But it can be hard to say to
someone what that is.”
Iris Gardiner paid close attention
to the things that Takacs responded
to during the first few showings and
was soon able to promise him that
they would find exactly what he was
looking for.
“You know what? She was right. It
worked out perfect. I just love it, I
love the location, the cottage; I love
everything,” he laughs. “Iris told me
I’m the luckiest person, and I just
said, ‘Hey, you helped me get
lucky.’”
Takacs was impressed with her
patience and unfailing optimism
that the right place was out there
waiting for him. Given that it took
two summers to find his dream cot-
Photograph: Andrew Hoshkiw
tage, the sense of trust, and connec-
tion that the two built together was
crucial to his overall experience.
“If you’re not happy, and you don’t
see that connection,” he says, “or
when they talk to you, you feel like
One of the things clients like about Suzanne Martineau, of ReMax in they just want to sell something as
Rosseau, is her attention to detail. soon as possible, then you should
change.”
Of course, if you’re selling, you
want an agent who can help expedite
the process.
Donna Medley of Bracebridge had
an unsatisfying experience with the
first agent she had tried to sell her
cottage with, and re-listed with
Suzanne Martineau of ReMax in
Rosseau on the recommendation of
a family friend. The difference was
immediately noticeable.
Medley explains the photos the
first agent posted to the online list-
ing showed things like the dining
room chairs all askew around the
table. When she complained, the
agent suggested she’d be the only one
who’d notice.
“I said I think every woman would
notice that,” Medley relates, and
notes that Martineau agreed. “She
put wonderful pictures on, she told
me how to arrange furniture, she
suggested I get rid of all of our per-
sonal things because she said people
just can’t help but look at those
things and she said I want them to
see the cottage and not your stuff.”
Medley also appreciated her
agent’s sensitivity to her and her hus-
band’s needs, as the couple had
decided for health reasons to sell the

MYERS LAKE-Only 45 Min. from Barrie

View this wonderfully spacious family cottage
built at the water’s edge. West facing open
concept living/dining room & kitchen all show
the magnificence of popular Myers Lake. A

Karen Acton
main flr master has ensuite c/w Jacuzzi tub &
corner shower. The Muskoka Room is pine lined, inviting & surrounded by
glass. Venture upstairs to the games room with a professional sized pool
table, 3rd bedroom & 4 pc bath. Warm wood ceiling & walls complement
WENDY
“On the Move in Muskoka” CLELAND
the thick carpet floor covering. Built In shelves are filled with games &
books. A double carport has att. heated workshop & exercise rm. Child
Sales Representative friendly shoreline as well as a deck for diving, this cottage has it all. Most
furnishings & all appliances are included. Just move in immediately &
enjoy. OWNER WANTS IT SOLD- $369,000.00

COUNTRY HOME ON THE WATER This

TF800-953-8655 year round property features 3 beds, lrg rec
F 705-687-7710 rm, vaulted ceiling in living room, warm invit-
B 705-687-3474 Ext. 25 ing fireplace, custom kitchen, 215’ s/w shore-
C 705-646-4617 line, gorgeous sunsets, dry boathouse
w/marine railway, double car garage and
Sales Representative wendycleland@royallepage.ca
endless amounts of enjoyment. Celebrate Christmas Here. Year round
705-706-2246 Municipal Road. $559,900.00
karenacton@royallepage.ca Lakes of Muskoka OWNER BUILDING Don’t miss this custom
built 3 bdrm home 2 mins from town. A det
Brokerage dbl garage w/att storage shed w/ramp pro-
Independently Owned & Operated
vides ample space. A spiral staircase to the
390-5 Muskoka Rd. S. upper 2 beds & oversize bath adds interest
Gravenhurst, ON while saving space. The lrg lv & dr lookout to
a wraparound deck & screened Muskoka room made for pure enjoyment.
Many amenities in this well cared for home. $299,900.00

TRY YOUR OFFER! 63.8 acre farm property with new Olympia all steel
40’x80’ building ready to be finished to your use. Great pasture property to
100 West Mall Rd, rent out while you build your dream home. New underground hydro installed
centrally metered, brand new septic system. Shed 8x10 has hydro panel. Well
Bracebridge, On P1L 1Z1 in place. Mature trees both evergreen & deciduous with Muskoka granite out-
(705)645-5257 x 298 croppings offer many choice spots for building. Old farmhouse & barn have
been demolished. Close to town amenities. $239,900.00 Call for directions today.
Brokerage, Independently Owned and Operated

4 November 2008 Cottage Home & Property SHOWCASE

cottage which had been in the fami-
ly since it was built in 1958.
“I was very sad about selling the
cottage and she was very aware of
that,” Medley says. “She never made
us feel like it was her job to do it.
She was always very thoughtful and
very considerate. I said to her I felt
like I’d made a friend for life.”
Hillary Lloyd echoes Takacs and
Medley’s thoughts about the impor-
tance of a good connection between
yourself and your agent.
“I think it’s really important to
find somebody who is willing to sit
down and listen to what you are
looking for,” Lloyd says. “I think
having a connection and having
somebody who’s patient and willing
to listen is well worth it in the long
run.”
Hillary and her husband Chris
found Wendy Cleland on duty at the
Royal LePage Lakes of Muskoka
Realty office in Gravenhurst.

Photograph: Andrew Hoshkiw

Hillary believes that doing their
homework before they even contact-
ed an agent was key to finding their
dream cottage.
“As a family we had a list of things
that we wanted in a cottage,” she
explains. “We had a lot of things Wendy Cleland, of Royal LePage Lakes of Muskoka Realty in Graven-
that were important to us.” hurst, is known for going the extra mile for her clients.

“Fall”
R E A L E S TAT E into the right hands...
Visit Professional. Knowledgeable.
muskokacottagehomeproperty.com
Downright Hard-Working.
to browse
this entire Service is my strength.
edition online.

A lso Suzanne Martineau

check out our Your Personal Realtor
many informative
real estate
related articles Independently Owned and Operated
Parry Sound-Muskoka
and Realty Ltd., Brokerage
Suzanne Martineau
1138 Highway 141, Sales Representative
real estate Rosseau, ON Rosseau Branch Office
listings. 705-706-3329 (Direct)
suzanne.martineau@cogeco.ca
705-732-8263 (Office) www.muskokacottagedreams.com

www.muskokacottagehomeproperty.com November 2008 5

 WES FINCH & SONS
DAVEYTree & Shrub Pruning & Fertilization
DESIGN, INSTALLATION & SERVICE
Specializing in Boat House Irrigation,
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 Lumber Your Guide to...

 Hardware
 Building Materials DESIGNS FOR LIVING Consulting Engineers
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Infrastructure Bracebridge, ON P1L 1Z8
 Paints & Stains IN MUSKOKA 

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www.barriebuildanddesign.com  Municipal Engineering
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645-2271 375-2051
Mon-Fri - 7 am - 6 pm Mon-Sat pinestone@pel.ca www.pel.ca
Sat - 7 am - 5 pm 7 am - 5 pm Telephone 705-645-8853

T. A. Bunker Surveying Ltd.

ONTARIO AND CANADA LAND SURVEYORS
www.LandInfoTech.ca
DENNIS
LEGAL and SITE SURVEYS
CONSTRUCTION RELATED SERVICES
FRANKLIN
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Phone: 705-687-5883
PROJECT & PROPERTY
Fax: 705-687-6377 MANAGEMENT
Email: surveys@LandinfoTech.ca

“Your eyes & ears in Muskoka”

THE RIDGESTONE
Whether you’re moving up RIDGESTONE
• Sub-trade sourcing & management
from your first home or FLOOR PLAN: • Seasonal opening & closing to
down from a large family your specifications
D.I.Y. home after the children • Dock de-icer installation and
spray polyurethane foam have gone, the Ridgestone monitoring
has all the features you’re
645-0775
insulation kits
looking for. From an ele- 705
gant front elevation and
Servicing Muskoka with
loads of windows, through
pride since 1992
three generous bedrooms,
• Portable, Disposable an open-concept floor plan
and a beautiful central L O YA L I S T T I M B E R F R A M I N G
• 600 Sq Ft, R-7 per Inch kitchen which opens onto a • CUSTOM HOMES
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• Insulation Kits are easy • ADDITIONS
separate dinette, this home • COTTAGES
to use, even for first
has it all! Add to these an • WORKSHOPS
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• LOG & TIMBER
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and shower and a mud you’ll see why we believe this is Antique Log & Timber Frame
room with an entrance off one of the most value packed STRUCTURES AND REPRODUCTIONS
www.tigerfoam.ca the double garage and a homes on the market today. (905) 375 - 5148
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Serving
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Specializing in... You Know Where We Are! For Over 21 Years
Custom Carpentry & Quality Finishing Let Muskoka Environmental
Design & Build of Turn-Key Model Homes on Highway 11 South, just north of Barrie service your WASTE and
Cottages or Homes • Boathouses and Docks

Dave Marshall
1-800-648-6695 RECYCLING needs
www.barriebuildanddesign.com Servicing all of Muskoka and surrounding areas
Tel/Fax: 705-646-2561
dmcmuskoka@surenet.net www.muskokabuild.com Email: barrie@barriebuildanddesign.com 789-1233 or 1 (866)-475-5374

6 November 2008 Cottage Home & Property SHOWCASE

 Cottage shopping from Milton,
the Lloyds used the Internet to pre-
view properties and routinely asked
Cleland to fill them in on the details.
“In many cases she had already
seen the property and the feedback
was instantaneous,” Frances
explains. “And if it wasn’t, she very
often said to us, ‘I haven’t seen it,
but I’ll go check it out and I’ll give
you a shout back.’ She was great.”
It was Karen Acton’s hardworking
attitude that won over Barb
Reurink.
“She’ll work hard for you, that’s
for sure,” says Reurink.
She met Acton when she went into
the Royal LePage Lakes of Muskoka
Realty office in Bracebridge to
inquire about a home she had seen
online. When the day came to view
the home, Reurink discovered Acton
had five other homes lined up for
her to view that day.
Going that extra mile didn’t go
unnoticed by Reurink who had driv-
en all the way from Toronto on other
occasions to view homes, only to dis-
cover that not only was the home
not to her liking, but that the agent
didn’t have any others to show her
while she was in the Muskoka area.
COLDWELL BANKER
Thompson Real Estate Brokerage
Brent Stapleton
Broker of Record/Owner
Cell: 783-4483
sold@vianet.ca
“We had dealt with a few real
estate agents prior to that when we
were picking and choosing specific
houses to look at in the Muskoka
area and obviously none of them
connected in any way that we want-
ed to continue going on with them,”
Reurink says.
Determined to find the perfect
home for her client, Acton showed
Reurink over 40 homes befores she
finally found what she was looking
for – a three-storey, open concept
lakefront home in the Parry Sound
area.
“She was so patient with us,” says
Reurink. “She is such a warm and
inviting person.”
Reurink stresses the importance of
finding a realtor you feel comfort-
able working with. With Acton, she
says she shared plenty of laughs and
felt really connected to her.
“I really think they need to get
into the office and don’t necessarily
Photograph: Andrew Hoshkiw
take the first person who is there
because it’s their night to work, or
whatever. If you do feel uncomfort-
able or that they’re not working that
hard, walk away. There will some-
body else out there who will be bet-
ter for you.” Karen Acton of Royal LePage Lakes of Muskoka Realty, in Brace-
bridge, is known for her work ethic and warm personality.
DOWNTOWN HUNTSVILLE
705-789-4957
www.coldwellbanker.com
INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED
Coldwell Banker Thompson Real Estate is proudly representing
EVANCO Homes and the Homes of Huntsville Downs
Prices starting at $285,000
For more information, call Brent or Scott
or stop by our office in downtown Huntsville.
(across from the Town Hall) Scott Morrison
Broker/Owner
Cell: 783-8199
smorrison@vianet.ca
www.muskokacottagehomeproperty.com November 2008 7
 Photograph: courtesy of The Landscapes
The great room, in the Ash Cottage at The Landscapes in Lake of Bays, is beautifully furnished and features a two-storey vaulted ceiling, a two-
sided stone fireplace and numerous quality built-ins, including an entertainment centre and a relaxing reading area bordered by bookcases.

A GLIMPSE OF FRACTIONALS IN MUSKOKA

The face of cottage country is changing as more and
more people consider new ways to own their own piece of
Muskoka. Demanding careers, rising cottage prices and a
shift towards low-maintenance living have resulted in a
surge in the popularity of fractional properties. Fraction-
als help people make the most of their vacations. They can
arrive in Muskoka with the peace of mind that they won’t
spend their time away from the city staining decks or
mowing lawns instead of boating or relaxing in the sun.
Just as every individual is different, so too are fractional
properties. That’s why it’s important to visit the fraction-
al properties that interest you and ask questions. In the
meantime, here is a glimpse of a few of Muskoka’s frac-
tional properties.

Photograph: courtesy of Touchstone on Lake Muskoka

At the heart of Touchstone on Lake Muskoka, located between Port Carling and Bracebridge, is Touchstone Lodge. It will
contain a restaurant, spa, fitness centre, lounge and concierge services, among other amenities.

8 November 2008 Cottage Home & Property SHOWCASE

 Photograph: courtesy of Diamond’s Edge
Diamond’s Edge, located in Utterson, features 15 cottages built in a beautiful post-and-beam style with custom furnishings. This
fractional caters to people who want to spend their vacations on the links at partnering Diamond’s Edge Golf Club.

Photograph: courtesy of Bert Krummrei

Seasons of Muskoka, a new fractional resort located west of Rosseau, features over 1,000 feet of shoreline on Whitefish Lake.
The cottages, which are currently under construction, will feature single units spaced well apart for maximum privacy.

www.muskokacottagehomeproperty.com November 2008 9

 Photograph: Andrew Hoshkiw
Garry and Vicki Hall turned a tired, but quaint, old farm house into a historic retreat. Original elements have been kept wherever possible.

STEP INSIDE A FEW UNIQUE HOMES AND COTTAGES

By Karen Wehrstein
Homes are constantly being built across Muskoka,
but some are more interesting than others. What
makes some structures stand apart from the others
varies from project to project, but one-of-a-kind
design, unusual locations, unconventional building
methods and even unforeseeable events have the
power to transform the mundane into the unique.
The early-morning fire that burned Warren and
Frances Rowe’s Bracebridge home to the ground last
Nov. 18, for instance, was such an unforeseeable
event.
“It was completely gone,” says Frances Rowe, who
was instrumental in getting the eight people and two
dogs who were in the house at the time out
unharmed. “We lost everything.”
Working with their insurance company, the
Rowes got several quotes for rebuilding, ultimately
choosing French’s Fine Homes of Port Sydney.
“We’re here and we know a lot of people who
work for them,” Rowe explains. “We’d rather sup-
port our area.”
Mair French, who co-owns French’s Fine Homes
with her husband Larry, recalls what was most
unique about the project was Rowes’ good cheer in
the face of adversity.
“It was the whole experience of working with peo-
ple who are so upbeat,” says Mair French. “When
bad things happen to good people, good people
don’t lose their attitude. There’s a huge rock across

Smith Architect Inc.

Building
a Better
Muskoka
59 Main Street East, #6 Since
Huntsville, Ontario 1860
P1H 2B8 RR1, Bracebridge, ON P1L 1W8

Tel: (705) 789-9858 705-385-1315

NEW COTTAGES
DOCKS • DECKS • BOATHOUSES
COMPLETE ADDITIONS,
www.smitharchitect.com RENOVATIONS & DESIGN

Fax: 705-645-6369
Designing your Muskoka Dream
10 November 2008 Cottage Home & Property SHOWCASE
the road from the house, so every day he and the
grandchildren would sit there and watch us work.”
Despite the trauma of watching their home go up
in flames, the Rowes were able to work closely with
French’s Fine Homes to make the rebuilt home even
better than the original.
Improvements, says French, included a full base-
ment, a massive island in the kitchen, and beautiful
new light fixtures.
“Her big dream was to have a bigger front porch
that she can sit on and talk to the neighbours, and
she has that,” she notes.
The Rowes couldn’t be happier with the way their
home turned out in the end.
“I love it. This is the way I wanted my home,”
Frances says.
Sometimes what makes a project different is its
location, as is the case with a 3,500-sq. ft. Muskoka
residence recently built by Confederation Log
Homes on a two-acre island on Lake Muskoka.
Photograph: courtesy of Confederation Log Homes

“It’s interesting because the owner can only use it

late spring to early fall and in the dead of winter
because in the shoulder seasons the ice is coming in
and out,” says Rick Kinsman, co-owner of Bobcay-
geon-based Confederation Log Homes, which will
celebrate its 30th anniversary next year. “Most peo-
ple would die to live there, but you can only get
there during certain parts of the year.”
Island building, a specialty of Confederation’s
Muskoka builders, poses particular challenges.
“You have to double or even triple-handle it,” he
says, explaining that all building materials have to be Confederation Log Homes built this 3,500-sq. ft. cottage on an island on Lake Muskoka.
unloaded from contractor vehicles onto a barge,
shipped across the water and then unloaded again
on the island, at the very least.
And yes, that costs extra.
“Usually people who are building on an island
want their privacy, and they pay for it,” says Kins-
man. “But it’s exciting . . . that’s part of the adven-
ture.”
Confederation Log Homes, one of Canada’s lead- MUSKOKA’S ENERGY EFFICIENT BUILDER
ing log home manufacturers, uses white pine and
western red cedar logs in their construction. They THE VIEW FROM YOUR DECK
also incorporate timber frame design elements into
many of their designs, as was the case with the Lake STARTS WITH OUR DESIGN TEAM
Muskoka residence. LET US TURN YOUR SKETCHES INTO YOUR TURN-KEY COTTAGE
“The dining room is all timber framed and con-
nected to the log walls, with a cathedral ceiling and
two octagon-shaped turrets,” Kinsman says.
“There’s an open great room with an outstanding
view.”
The home also incorporates a lot of glass. “When
you’re on an island,” he says, “you can take advan-
tage of the view.”
The final touch is the Confederation company
logo, carved into one of the logs, like an artist’s sig-
nature, Kinsman says.
While not a new build, Garry and Vicki Hall’s
THE ENERGY EFFICIENT BUILDER
renovation project is also quite unique. Vicki is co- ENERGY STAR and R-2000 Homes are approximately
owner of Lumina Resort on Lake of Bays, which has 30% to 40% more energy efficient
been operated by her family since 1921. Her family than those built to the minimum Ontario Building Code.
roots in the area go back some 110 years, so it’s no
surprise she’s fascinated with that which is local and BUILDING BETTER HOMES & COTTAGES FOR OVER 35 YEARS
old.
Along a straight, tree-canopied stretch of South Head office 705-385-2311 Member

Portage Road near Dwight is an old 18-acre farm 126 Greer Road, Port Sydney, P0B 1L0
bfrench@homesmuskoka.com
property that Vicki always admired. The owner,
www.homesmuskoka.com
ENER UIDE

www.muskokacottagehomeproperty.com November 2008 11

 Mike Riech, was famous for his rasp-
berry wine and fresh vegetables.
When he passed away, the property
went up for auction, and the Halls
were outbid. “I was heartbroken,”
Vicki says.
So when the Halls were driving
along admiring the fall colours a year
or so later and spotted a For Sale sign,
they saw it as a sign of fate.
“I called the owner and we bought
it immediately,” Vicki says.
Built in the 1940s, she estimates,
the small two-bedroom house has low
ceilings upstairs, a very large kitchen
and a staircase reminiscent of one in
her grandmother’s home.
“We gutted the whole place,” says
Vicki, whose husband Garry is the
owner of Garry Hall Construction in
Huntsville. In the process, they dis-

Photograph: courtesy of French’s Fine Homes

covered how well built the house was.
“The bones were just wonderful,”
Vicki recalls. “Everyone says, ‘Why
didn’t you just tear it down?’ We just
couldn’t.”
When the old silver tin roofing was
stripped off, for instance, the workers
found oak strapping underneath.
“You just don’t see that any more,” she
notes.
Warren and Frances Rowe had to rebuild their lives after their home went up in flames. French’s Fine The renovation aimed to recreate
Homes built the family a new house with all the features they longed for, including a larger front porch. the old-style look.

Ed Campbell
Construction Ltd.
red hot bathrooms
Tom Campbell
Laurie Campbell
Owners

1071 Campbell’s Road Tel: 705.765.7239

Minett, ON Cell: 705.644.0914
edcampbellconstruction@hughes.net Fax: 705-765-7480

since 1948
“Our Pleasure
McLennan Contracting offers over 30 years of the highest level of detailed carpentry to Serve” REALTOR®

experience in building custom cottages, boathouses, renovations and additions in the

Muskoka Lakes area. We strive to design and build some of the most outstanding cottages
here in the Muskoka area. We will work with you personally throughout the process to
ensure that your project is an enjoyable experience resulting in the cottage of your dreams.
GIDLEY
R E A L E S TAT E LT D
BROKERAGE
DREAM DESIGN BUILD BUYING or SELLING in a changing real Maggie Tomlinson
estate market can be a real challenge. Sales Representative
That’s where I come in. Put your trust in 705-644-9283 – direct
a brokerage with 60 years of service and 705-762-3359 – office
705-762-3133 – fax
experience in changing markets. Call me today! teesrus@muskoka.com

w w w. m a g g i e t o m l i n s o n . c o m
12 November 2008 Cottage Home & Property SHOWCASE
www.muskokacottagehomeproperty.com November 2008 13
 “We re-drywalled and Garry
BUILDERS • DESIGNERS • RENOVATORS trimmed out all the doors and win-
dows with large trim to make it look
like what had been there before,” she
says.
The hardwood floors are almost all
original, and the staircase was re-
stained but otherwise left in its origi-
nal state.
On the exterior, the Halls removed
the old black shingle siding, and
replaced it with wood siding painted
“a nice pale farm house yellow, with
black shutters,” in Vicki’s words.
DON’T TEAR DOWN YOUR COTTAGE! Despite all their efforts to return the
LET US SHOW YOU THE RENOVATION POSSIBILITIES. old home to its glory days, the Halls
Offering you complete custom design and construction services with free don’t actually live there. Why did they
introductory consultations and estimates. Family owned and operated since 1995. bother then, is the obvious question?
Contact Scott Clark for more information or visit our website. “Just because I live in Muskoka,
Homes • Cottages • Boathouses • Guesthouses • Additions • Renovations can’t I have a place to get away?” asks
Vicki. “It’s a change to not look at
water. Maybe I was a farmer at some
point, I don’t know. It’s so peaceful
over there . . . for me, being in the
tourist business, I like to get away
from people for five minutes. Not
that we needed another project . . . we
410 Muskoka Road South • Gravenhurst • Ontario P1P 1J4
loved the property and the house was
Proud supporter of
so neat. We just wanted to bring it
705-687-9248 back.”
info@edenlanehomes.com With other projects, what’s unusual
is how they’re built – or in the case of
www.edenlanehomes.com a 4,000-sq. ft. custom cottage on Lake
CONSTRUCTION
LIMITED
Custom Cottages & Boathouses From $28,900 2009
g
Occupan cy Beginning Sprin
Woodland Echoes is situated on a pristine uncrowded 40
mile waterway, just five minutes from the historic village of
Magnetawan, only 2 1/2 hours north of Toronto.
1104 Eveleigh Rd., Port Carling, ON P0B 1J0 1-888-661-3669
705-765-SHOR (7467) www.shorlineconstruction.com www.FractionalCottageOwnership.com
14 November 2008 Cottage Home & Property SHOWCASE
Rosseau built by McLennan Con-
tracting in Milford Bay-how fast.
“We started June 1 and wrapped it
up a couple of weeks ago,” says owner
Jason McLennan, for a build time of
160 days.
Such a project is more typically
expected to take eight months, and
that was the case with the lumberyard
supplying McLennan with materials.
“They couldn’t keep up with our
orders,” he says. “Everyone was
amazed by how fast the project went.”
This is the second cottage that
McLennan, who primarily concen-
trates on renovations, has built in
Muskoka. He hopes to add more
builds to his resume.
“I’m trying to set a bar for how long
it should take and how long it should-
n’t take. I just wanted to get it done
fast in order to get that good refer-
ence,” he says.
How did his crew do it? “I have
seven great carpenters,” he explains.
“Everybody knows what they’re doing
and we’d work seven in the morning
to 5:30 at night. The customer was
easy to work with, not asking for too
many changes.”
Scheduling of tradespeople such as
electricians and plumbers wasn’t easy,
McLennan says, but they all did their
Woodland Echoes has
been 50 years in the
making. This small
peaceful resort will
charm you the moment
you enter the gate. Our
lovely traditional
cottages, each nestled
under mature spruce
trees in a private
setting at the water’s
edge. Share the
tranquil beauty of 20
acres of groomed
lawns, perennial
gardens, forested
nature trails,
meadowland, and a
sunny sandy beach.
 BUILD AN ENERGY
EFFICIENT HOME
Cut your heating costs by up to 50%

Photograph: Andrew Hoshkiw

Energy efficient • Fire resistant • Noise reduction
Reduce your heating costs year after year

Jason McLennan, of McLennan Contracting, recently built a home in

160 days to prove quality construction doesn’t have to take years.
work on time. design, such as a house designed for a
“What it comes down to is good retired professional athlete by James
organization and communication Pitropov, principal and owner of
between everybody,” he says. Smith Architect in Huntsville.
McLennan isn’t really sure why The site, located on the shore of
every contractor doesn’t keep to such Lake of Bays, was made up of two lots
a schedule. that had been made into one. The
“I’ve seen projects up here that take lady of the house wanted a building
forever. It’s hard to see that people are that worked with the site, making best
given the time frames that they’re use of the views and the orientation.
given and they get away with it,” he “She wanted a sense of nature com-
says. “It takes a month to frame a ing into the house, feeling nature was
house, but some guys take two and connected to the house, rather than a Building on the Strength
three months. You hear horror stories big boxy kind of place,” says Pitropov.
about projects going on for a year and So he designed a house with three of Concrete.
a half or two years.” living pavilions unified under one Build your home using NUDURA’s Insulated
McLennan stresses that he’s not sac- long roofline with breezeways and Concrete Forms (ICF’s) and see what building on
rificing quality for speed. courtyards between them. the strength of concrete can do for you.
“This cottage is all nicely trimmed “The three living areas are connect-
out,” he says, with interior architec- ed by a long corridor which termi- Multiple available
widths, 90 and 45
tural timbers as well. “There’s a fine nates at one end in an oversized fire-
degree corners
line between doing a good job and place, and passes through three pavil-
and many other
taking too long. I just wanted to show ions and two courtyards ending in a innovative
everybody we can do it.” gazebo-like structure that we’re calling features make
And then there are projects that are the ‘fire pavilion’ – a gazebo with NUDURA’s ICF’s
unique because they’re unique in wrap-around seating and a fireplace in the intelligent,
cost effective
choice when
Building the custom building.
home or cottage of your
dreams throughout the
Muskoka / Parry www.nudura.com
Sound and surrounding Building Value. The NUDURA name and logo are trademarks of NUDURA Corporation.

Model Home and Office located at areas with Cripps

Contracting Ltd.
189 Pineridge Gate,
Gravenhurst
Phone (705) 687-4497
or Toll Free 1-800-481-8338
Fully insured and a
registered builder with
TARION.
Tobin Building Systems
Authorized Distributor of NUDURA products
www.crippscontracting.com
for Muskoka, Parry Sound, North Bay and Haliburton
Building Your Muskoka Address
705-645-3355
560 Ecclestone Drive, Unit 1, Bracebridge, ON P1L1R2
hallam@muskoka.com
www.muskokacottagehomeproperty.com November 2008 15
 down to the lake.
Floor space is 3,000 sq. ft. with
another 1,000 sq. ft. of deck.
Materials stress the natural and rus-
tic, with locally-quarried stone, cus-
tom redwood windows and cedar sof-

Photograph: courtesy of Smith Architect

fit and fascia.
“The overall look will be rustic Lake
of Bays but with slightly cleaner lines
and more glass,” says Pitropov.
What is important with such a proj-
ect, he notes, is a good fit between
architect and client.
“I’ll ask people to do a little research
themselves, get magazine clippings,
Smith Architect is currently in the process of designing an elaborate cottage featuring three living pavil-
ions unified under one long roofline with breezeways and courtyards between them. find pictures of places they like; that’s
a dialogue that helps us become cre-
the centre,” says Pitropov. room with glass panel walls on three and its own private deck. ative,” Pitropov says. “It’s not our
The kitchen pavilion will have a six- sides and windows on the third, facing In the basement there’s a home ideas that prevail, or the clients, but
burner gas stove and fireplace incor- the lake. gym that walks out to a sunk-in the project takes on a life of its own
porated into one rock structure. The bedroom pavilion has a master patio and rock garden so the owners and you end up with something
The middle pavilion features a great bedroom with ensuite, walk-in closet will be able to exercise and then go unique and original.”

Your Panel of Professionals

Need answers to your questions? Let the Professionals give you the straight answers!

Title insurance is now offered in Ontario by several companies.

Marcia Oliver
Law Office of Marcia J. Oliver
705-788-1148 A The benefits of title insurance may include: a reduction in your
marcia@oliverlaw.ca
legal fees as your lawyer may have to conduct fewer inquiries regard-
We are purchasing a cottage. My lawyer ing the property thereby reducing the time he/she spends on your
has recommended title insurance. What file; and protection for you as the purchaser, in the event that fraud
is it and why is it beneficial? or inaccuracies in information provided are discovered, after closing.
You should discuss your options with a solicitor.
Q Marcia Oliver
Marie Poirier, MCIP, RPP
Property and home owners would be wise to consult a planner
Marie Poirier Planning A prior to making renovation and rebuilding plans. The zoning
705-635-9860
& Associates Inc.
marie@surenet.net bylaws in Muskoka are becoming increasingly strict and more com-
We have decided to renovate our home. plex. Find out what you can do before you start and what you may
Do we need a planner? be able to do with the help of a planner to achieve your ultimate
goal, even if it doesn't immediately comply with the zoning bylaw. It
Q will save you time and money in the long run.
Marie Poirier
Lynda Lynn 705-645-5257 Research shows that clients make their decision to buy or not
Royal LePage Broker
llynn@muskoka.com
A to buy in the first two minutes. Therefore, enhancing your
home is critical. Tidy and sweep front steps. Remove litter from
What difference does “curb appeal” your yard. Prune and trim hedges and trees. Edge and sweep the
make in the sale of my property? driveway. Fingerprints should be removed and glass shined in your
doors. A little forethought and a few suggestions from your real-
tor can help the sale of your home.
Q Lynda Lynn
Jacqui Semkow 705-646-4238 Thanks for your question. The short answer is no. TD Canada
TD Canada Trust
semkoj@td.com
A Trust is still lending mortgage money and I’m still as busy as
ever. There have been some small changes. The maximum amorti-
I have been watching the news and hear- zation is now 35 years and the minimum downpayment required is
ing that it is now very difficult to get a 5% of the purchase price. As always, I am happy to help qualified
mortgage. Is this true? buyers purchase a home. Please call me if I can help you plan for
homeownership or assist with a pre-approval.
Q Jacqui Semkow
16 November 2008 Cottage Home & Property SHOWCASE
 28 Years of Experience
on Lake of Bays

Garry Hall Construction

Ph 705-635-1379 • Cell 705-788-6156 • garryhallconst@hotmail.com
"What's the difference between average and extraordinary?
It's all in the details."
 SHOWCASE FEATURE PROPERTIES
Mary Thomas
Sales Representative

Office: (705) 789-9677

Cell: (705) 380-1709 B R O K E R A G E
marythomas@muskoka.com

Come and Enjoy

MUSKOKA • LAKE OF BAYS • ALMAGUIN HIGHLANDS
Your New Home, or Vacation, Destination
Call my
DIRECT TOLL FREE NUMBER 1-877-777-8695
I look forward to working for you!

www.marythomasmuskoka.com
Wendy Crothers (Godfrey) CAMERON & KAREN WHITE
Sales Representatives
Broker of Record Port Carling, ON
1-888-508-2777 ext. 513
wcrothers@sutton.com Cell: (705) 645-7123
(705) 684-8181 muskokaproperties@muskoka.com
www.muskokapropertiesforsale.com
(705) 646-7532
NEW LISTING! A big fat fish was swimming by the
Sutton-Around Muskoka Realty Inc., Brokerage
405 Muskoka Road South, Unit A1, GRAVENHURST 170’ on dock as we put out the For Sale sign
on this 4 season cottage with 170’
Big Whitefish Lake frontage on crystal clear Big Whitefish
Attention ALL Buyers! Lake. With 3 bedrooms, a spacious liv-
Enjoy this Muskoka getaway now! The serene, private
ing area with a wall of windows over-
setting will captivate and entertain you with close to 600
looking the beautiful lake view you
feet of natural shoreline, over 4 acres and wildlife such
can host a family reunion. Enjoy miles
as loons, herons, humming birds, beavers, deer and fish
of boating on this three lake chain. For
to share the experience! Book your appointment with
weekends, weeks on end or an eter-
Wendy today! Short notice appointments are possible!
nity, this cottage is a big catch at a
705-646-7532
SELLER MOTIVATED TO ENTERTAIN ALL OFFERS!
$1,599,000 small price $449,000.

Suzanne Martineau LAKES OF MUSKOKA REALTY

Independently Owned and Operated
Parry Sound-Muskoka
Realty Ltd., Brokerage
Sales Representative
395 CENTRE ST N., HUNTSVILLE 705-789-9677
Rosseau Branch Office
suzanne.martineau@cogeco.ca
www.muskokacottagedreams.com

Looking to move to Muskoka?

Large bungalow on a fabulous level ravine lot, central Bracebridge,
The Heart of Muskoka. A Breath of Fresh Air and A Great Lifestyle! $289,000.

SUE BURKE, Sales Rep. – The Power of Sue at Work for You
20+ Years ~ #1 Agent Huntsville/Lake of Bays/Almaguin 2007
1138 Highway 141, Rosseau, ON sueburke@vianet.ca • 705-788-6389 direct line
705-706-3329 (Direct) 705-732-8263 (Office) Check out all of Sue’s listings at www.sueburke.ca

BRENT GINOU KAREN FLOOD

Sales Representative
405 Muskoka Road South, Unit A1
p. 705-684-8181
tf. 1-866-684-8181
c. 705-641-0097
Sutton-Around Muskoka www.sutton.com/sg/bginou
bginou@sutton.com
Realty Inc. brokerage
Live the Muskoka Life Style on Drive-To
Acton Island on Beautiful Muskoka Lake.
The view from the “L” shaped dock and boathouse
is South West creating spectacular vistas across
open water. The cottage offers central air, exten-
sive wooden interior, 3 bdrms with additional
sleeping accommodation in the walk out base-
ment, laundry facilities & great room with stone
fireplace, wood floors and incredible views! Seller
is motivated so enjoy your Muskoka this summer.
Call Brent today for your personal tour!
$1,199,000.
Broker
705-765-6801
(cell) 705-644-4011
kflood@muskoka.com
B R O K E R A G E
www.karenflood.ca PORT CARLING
• Horseshoe Lake •
This wonderful custom built year-round
cottage or home offers it all. Post and
beam construction, wide open spaces, 2
master suites, gorgeous wood fireplace,
lower living space with propane fireplace,
level land, sand shoreline, great view, south
exposure, large decks and newer hot tub. NEW PRICE!
Also has high efficiency oil furnace. Only
minutes to town and on a great lake. $ 7 49,900.
For more information call Karen Flood, 705-644-4011