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A real contender AWARD-WINNING MODERN COTTAGE RESPECTS HISTORY By Ellen Ashton-Haiste ABOVE Paying homage to the heritage of the original structure, this cottage was rebuilt with modern flair complemented by stone and wood accents that reflect its lakefront location.
38 Lifestyle July/August 2022
A
study in contrasts is how this lakefront home, located near Grand Bend, is best described. Its distinguished heritage is reflected in the modern design and indoor spaces mirroring outdoor spaces all added up to make this residence worthy of winning two awards. Located in historic Oakwood Park, the home has its own storied history as the one-time summer retreat for Ontario premier John Robarts. That heritage was something the owners wanted to respect while creating a more modern aesthetic
for an all-season haven. The result – a rebuild from the ground up – was achieved through collaboration between architects Tillmann Ruth Robinson and Oke Woodsmith Building Systems. It was excellent teamwork, says architect McMichael Ruth, which began with the owners’ vision of combining modern architecture with sensitivity to the neighbourhood. This led to the creation of “a unique interpretation of a heritage cottage in a very modern way.” The cottage blends well with its environment, agrees Oke Woodsmith president Randall Oke, citing the use of
