260 EDGEMERE ROAD — $3,599,000, sold

A shelter, and a balcony in the woods, a bridge and a house.

LLAMA Urban Design’s Muskoka retreat is a bridge, thoughtfully placed on a 5.3 acre private, wooded lot. The lot is bifurcated by a seasonal ravine, connecting the forest on either side. The structure faces the expanse of Mary Lake, enjoying 310’ of beached waterfront as the sun sets beyond the quietude.

Bridgehouse is a 38 meter long gesture that celebrates the experience of place and rests as a counterpoint to the monumental scale of the landscape. The inverted V-shaped structure, mirrors the ravine’s form and produces a sense of lightness, allowing the exterior to pass through the house.

Each wing hides a forest exit to the beach for you and for your guests. The four bedrooms and two washrooms are grounded by massive walkout glazing in the sleeping quarters, constantly communicating with the changing slope of the ravine and nature’s grade. Apart and separate, quiet moments are created, transferring feelings to the space inside and out.

Connecting in the middle, 6 meters over the ravine, you are transported to the tree canopy, bridging the beachfront lake and the forest, which communicate, through dancing dappled sunlight on the walls and gentle lapping waves tickling the shore, softly echoing to your perch. In any season, the fire is lit and the stage is set and you are nature’s audience, comfortable and surrounded by modern minimalism. It’s not what you expect and everything you need.

COMMUNITY

Huntsville

The largest, closest town besides Port Sydney – an adorable village with a few friendly retailers and services and Port Sydney Beach on the south end of Mary Lake. (Port Sydney History.) Surrounded by impressive landscapes and some of the largest and most popular lakes in the region, Huntsville is a lively town set in the heart of Muskoka. Bursting with history, culture, and art, Huntsville is known for its commitment to local businesses, community growth and for the endless recreational options, in every season. Experience culinary delights for every palate, locally owned shops, charming boutiques and find comfort in knowing that the amenities you need and the luxuries you desire are available for you. Mary Lake, Lake Vernon, Fairy Lake and Peninsula Lake make up the 4-lake chain system in Huntsville which allows you to enjoy over 40 miles of boating. These popular Muskoka lakes are home to renowned golf courses, world class resorts and endless scenic shorelines. Adventure awaits in the sun and snow on the trails of Arrowhead Park and Algonquin Park is a great place for a day trip all year round or enjoy over 1200kms of OFSC trails accessible from Muskoka.

Mary Lake

Connected on both ends with the North Muskoka River and part of the 4-lake, 40 mile, chain system. Canoe from Bridgehouse to Port Sydney Beach and docks. The lake is up to 184’ deep, and averages 82’. It has an over 20Km perimeter with 10% wetland shores. It is one of the quietest and least populated lakes in the region. The water level is controlled by an MNR owned and operated dam at Port Sydney. Water levels are governed by the Muskoka River Water Management Plan. Here is a run down of the fish this lake has served up recently: Lake Trout; pumpkinseed, trout-perch, white sucker, brown bullhead, golden shiner, rainbow smelt, yellow perch, bluntnose minnow, longnose sucker, rock bass, Slimy Sculpin, Spottail Shiner.

Muskoka Airport

Located in Gravenhurst, just 20 minutes drive to Bridgehouse. You’ll find Canada Customs Airport of Entry, a pilot lounge and quick access to ground transport. The 1.83KM runway can accommodate a Boeing 737, so that should cover most of your airborne friends. It’s also open 365 days a year. More Info.