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A Luxury, Wooded, Lakeside Retreat Northeast of Toronto

Created as a family retreat as well as a rental for other seeking a vacation spot, The Bear Stand is a 3,300 square foot house that’s nestled on the shores of Contau Lake, which is just three hours northeast of Toronto. Bohlin Cywinski Jackson designed the two-story residence within 100 acres of woodlands with a private trail, courtesy of the homeowners, for visitors to explore.

The house sits parallel to the lake with the main living spaces fashioned at ground level putting you right within nature. The sleeping quarters are above and boast views of the water and surrounding forest.

A double-height living room makes the interior feel even more expansive and it comes complete with a massive fireplace clad in local granite. The warm rich floors are wire brushed walnut, along with the benches and bar tops, that was salvaged from a nearby barn.

Besides the home’s incredible interior, the outdoor space features a private sauna, ofuro soaking tub, hot tub, and screened porch.

Caroline Williamson is Editor-in-Chief of Design Milk. She has a BFA in photography from SCAD and can usually be found searching for vintage wares, doing New York Times crossword puzzles in pen, or reworking playlists on Spotify.