Muskoka Modern: A Cozy Basement Retreat

We transformed a 1,400-square-foot basement on Lake Muskoka into a cohesive, luxury living space—designed with precision, purpose, and attention to every detail.

The entry from the garage sets the tone, featuring a trayed shiplap ceiling that mirrors the ping pong table below. This leads into a built-in storage area, where custom cubbies with individual lighting offer both elegance and functionality. These cubbies seamlessly wrap into a bespoke wet bar, finished with black quartz countertops and solid wood floating shelves—creating a smooth, stylish transition between spaces.

Opposite the bar, a one of a kind staircase serves as a true Craftsman’s Edge focal point. This custom-built showpiece branches at the landing in two directions, adding flow and architectural interest. Thoughtfully integrated into the stair wall is a built-in bar fridge, a prep/coffee station, and a recessed, LED backlit wine rack that holds 11 bottles—a perfect fusion of form and function.

A highlight of the space is the floating peninsula bar top—a 3' x 4' surface that appears to hover effortlessly without support legs. To achieve this clean, modern effect, we designed an internal steel structure within the stair wall, maximizing both seating and visual impact.

In the bathroom, luxury and craftsmanship converge with floor to ceiling polished white tile and precisely mitered edges for a seamless, trimless look. Heated floors, a black floating vanity, and decorative wall sconces elevate the space with a boutique hotel feel.

The living room is designed for both comfort and acoustics, featuring Rockwool Safe’n’Sound insulation for soundproofing. Paneled walls, symmetrical bulkheads, and custom soffit lighting create a warm, layered ambiance. Overhead, stained ceiling beams echo the tones of the stair treads and floating bar shelves, adding contrast and cohesion to the modern aesthetic. At its center, a built-in fireplace and TV surround offer an understated yet refined focal point.

Additional features include a dedicated A/V closet housing the Control4 and Sonos systems, a guest bedroom, and a thoughtfully designed primary bedroom. In the primary bedroom, a sliding barn door leads to a walk-in closet, while a matte black vertical shiplap fireplace introduces a bold, contemporary element.

From start to finish, this renovation was crafted to blend luxury, comfort, and modern convenience—elevating what was once an ordinary basement into a stunning, fully custom living space.