With the eve of Canada Day upon us, Canadians are ready to embrace the ‘True North Strong And Free’ mantra that defines us as a nation. Whether its camping, canoeing or simply enjoying a fresh cup of Tim Hortons coffee, tomorrow is a time to celebrate how fortunate we are to live in a liberated, progressive and awe-inspiringly beautiful country.

For many, this Canada Day will be spent relaxing on a Muskoka chair at the cottage. Muskoka, Ontario is one of my favourite summer destinations in the country. From the visually arresting fresh water lakes, to the tall coniferous trees keeping watch over the rustic landscape, it’s no wonder The Muskokas have long been a popular cottaging haven for the old-monied (and new-monied!) guard. Many of these ‘cottages’, no matter how grand, still embrace the character of respite embracing a rustic vernacular. Steven Spielberg, Kate Hudson, Tom Hanks, Kevin O’Leary and Shania Twain – to name a few celebrities – all own cottages in this region.

The designs below by Tamarack North Ltd, illustrate what the classic (albeit grand) boathouse in Muskoka, Ontario looks like today.

^{Photo Courtesy of Tamarack North Ltd, Photographer Daniel Weylie}

I’ve traveled across many of the lakes in Muskoka, Ontario and I remain fascinated with the range of boathouses which adorn the shoreline.

Almost every cottage that has a boathouse – new or old – is architecturally pleasing and unique.

It’s a true testament to the magic and character of this beloved outdoor escape.

^{Photo Courtesy of Tamarack North Ltd, Photographer Daniel Weylie}

The above design is located in Skelton Bay Point on Lake Rosseau.

Cottages started popping up on this lake during the late 19th century and is now considered one of the most prestigious in the region.

This boathouse fits right in with the natural landscape. The roof shingles resemble the colours of its surrounding trees and the grey siding is similar to the colour of the granite rock found in the region.

Hands down one of my favourite designs.

^{Photo Courtesy of Tamarack North Ltd, Photographer Daniel Weylie}

Yes you counted correctly, the boathouse above features five garage doors!

While the lake level of Muskoka boathouses contain all manner of outdoor equipment, the upper levels are often used as ‘bunkies’ (guest accommodations), or kid’s lounge areas.

^{Photo Courtesy of Tamarack North Ltd, Photographer Daniel Weylie}

The upper level often also features additional deck space to entertain.

This boathouse is located on Lake Joseph, a beautiful rocky lake that connects with Lake Rosseau.

^{Photo Courtesy of Tamarack North Ltd, Photographer Daniel Weylie}

With environmental regulations becoming more strict, it is more challenging to build a boathouse on many Ontario lakes.

According to Cottage Life, no matter which lake you’re on, you’lll need a building permit and approval from a structural engineer; however, every municipality has different laws, and you should be aware of those that apply to you.

Don’t know where to begin? The Shore Land Work Permit, by the Ministry of Natural Resources, is a great place to start researching if you are interested in adding a boathouse to your cottage property.

Tamarack North Ltd’s portfolio showcases their ability to artfully integrate the historical vernacular and surrounding environment in their designs.

Cottage owners would do well – when building or replacing their existing boathouses – to use local materials, sustainable products, and incorporate nature’s palette in this pristine environment.

To learn more about these gorgeous boathouses, visit Tamarack North Ltd.

Researched and Written by Brennan Guse, Environment and Sustainability Undergrad, University of British Columbia