Photography: Tina Kulic
When you are a busy professional, there is nothing like escaping to your personal retreat – especially if it’s on a waterfront. Owning this home is a dream come true for the owner of this house who lives and works in Victoria, the capital of the state of British Columbia in Canada.
He fell in love with a sprawling 1.21-hectare property located only a 45-minute drive from there, on Vancouver Island. Known for its scenic landscapes and outdoor activities, Shawnigan Lake “offers a perfect mix of nature’s beauty and a friendly community, making it a special place for both adventure and relaxation”, according to interior designer Andrea Rodman, who worked on the project.
Andrea spent her formative years between Toronto, Canada and Sydney and also had an English-born, Australian-raised mother who contributed to her early exposure to diverse cultures through travel. Today, she runs her eponymous studio in Vancouver and has nurtured a true sense of style with global influences.
“My favourite room in the home is the kitchen – it’s where family and friends gather, share meals and create memorable experiences” Andrea Rodman, interior designer.
Having previously worked with this client, Andrea was granted his complete trust to imagine the perfect holiday home. A father of two, the client wanted a place to switch off and connect with family and friends surrounded by a sublime environment.
Built in the 1990s and originally intended as a West Coast-style cottage, the two-level, 511-square-metre house with space to sleep 14 combines cedar siding and shingles for a rustic feel, complemented by river rock accents. “This blend draws from the natural beauty and rugged landscape, embodying the region’s aesthetic,” says Andrea.
ottoman bench from Temple & Webster) sits at the foot of the bed and a custom rug from Banner Carpets softens the space. (Credit: Photography: Tina Kulic)
We love….layered lighting
The large central pendant is just one of the many light sources in this room, including the natural light that comes streaming in through the floor-to-ceiling windows looking out onto the lake. By night, the whole room can be lit up by the central pendant, just the corner nook can be illuminated with the floor lamp from CB2 or you can read in bed by the bedside light. This all makes it easy to create zones.
For lighting ideas, visit montauklightingco.com
With its large dock, Finnish sauna, pickleball court and sandy beach, the property is an invitation to contemplate and foster connection. Considered the main gathering and focal point, the kitchen maximises windows with breathtaking views.
The palette responds to the owner’s desire for a light, cosy vibe in a space that radiates hospitality for enduring memories by the lake.
“We opted for medium ash oak wood flooring and a lighter whitewash oak for the tall millwork cabinets, paired with painted bone-coloured kitchen cabinets and white walls throughout,” describes the interior designer, who also incorporated finishes like a William Morris wallpaper in the primary bathroom for a playful twist. “The exception is the games room, where we introduced navy blue, and the kids’ bathroom, which features light blue.”
“One of my favourite features is the cottage-inspired vibe” Andrea Rodman, interior designer.
Every colour and material was carefully selected to mirror the beauty of the lakeside. “Soft, neutral tones paired with accents of blues and greens, medium ash oak flooring for warmth underfoot, and whitewashed river rock,” describes Andrea. “Furniture and decor were chosen for their classic lines and comfortable appeal, ensuring each space invites relaxation and socialisation.”
Some artworks reflect botanical inspiration, while others evoke French impressionism, adding poetic touches. Bridging the gap between classic and contemporary, this home has a timelessness to it. Throughout, it’s infused with traditional elegance and all the charm of a beach house, striking the perfect balance between upscale and inviting.
Source Book
Interior design Andrea Rodman Interiors, andrearodman.com
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