- Interior
Ashley Botten Design (ABD) brings a sense of luxury to a lakeside family home in Muskoka, Ontario, with sophisticated, understated tones and bespoke elements. Inspired by haute couture and craftsmanship, the studio managed to find the perfect mix between high-end design and relaxation for summer days by the water. Although the exterior of the six-bedroom house was retained, the interior was thoroughly redone to improve the spatial layout and create calming spaces. Characteristic elements such as the large sash windows and the distinctive tiled fireplace, typical of the region, remained untouched.
ABD focused on giving a personal touch to both communal areas and private quarters, with custom-designed furniture that transforms each room. In both fashion and interior design, customisation is all about attention to detail and choosing high-quality materials. This becomes evident when looking at the striking curved sofa in the living room, strategically positioned to take full advantage of the lake view. This piece seats six and is a model of subtle luxury, with the fabric construction giving the design a sophisticated look. The curves of the design are enhanced by a surrounding bench of white oak, which transforms a previously unusable space into a functional area, perfect for a decorative sculpture or as seating. 
Another striking element is the three-dimensional carpet, carefully placed in the room. The ground floor of the house is characterised by a dynamic interplay of wood species. Wide planks of Douglas fir line the floor, while straight-veined larch wood graces the semi-circular staircase and walkway. This is also found in the kitchen, where it is combined with polished charcoal-coloured natural stone on the worktops, splashback, and extractor. An open aluminium shelf and a kitchen island of the same material, surrounded by luxurious bar stools made of nubuck leather, add to the overall look. In the master bedroom and ensuite bathroom, everything exudes tranquillity and luxury. Walls are painted in a subtle sea-salt hue, while woven linen curtains diffuse soft light. The bed frame is tightly upholstered in woollen fabric and strategically positioned to allow an alternative passage to the bathroom. The designer has carefully considered the sensory experience here; for example, a metal towel rack has been designed in the ensuite with a resting shelf for incense.
Walls are painted in a subtle sea-salt hue, while woven linen curtains diffuse soft light
The combination of elegance and convenience is further enhanced by smart solutions for privacy and comfort. Sliding glass doors in the bar lounge provide soundproofing, while a cosy, upholstered area near the living room is ideal for children to relax. Every detail in this home has been designed to enhance the overall experience, with a timeless style that will become richer and richer with use and memories over the years. Completed by the team at Ashley Botten Design in collaboration with builder Tamarack North, this unique project covers an area of 9,000 square feet and will be completed in 2024. Led by Ashley Botten, the team has realised a unique vision where sophistication and the everyday come together in harmony. The business is known for its thoughtful interiors and bespoke designs, collaborating with talented makers such as ceramicist Alissa Coe. Their work is characterised by a carefully curated approach, where even the most functional objects, such as a curtain rod or sofa, become a differentiating feature of the space.
Photography by Patrick Biller
Text by Celien Hemelaer