Scott McGillivray Goes Back in Time With a Gorgeous Kawartha Homestead Hideaway

The first thing Scott tackled was the tired exterior of this cottage, which was run down and actually two separate buildings—the main cottage and the Bunkie. Now, with an updated entrance, an established sitting area in the back, and a clear structure linking the two buildings together, this is a cohesive and charming space.

Here’s a closer look at the glass structure Scott built to link the main building to the bunkie. Now, it’s easy for renters to access both spaces no matter which building they’re in, but it also adds a nice visual feature to the property.

Inside, Scott and Debra kept lots of the original wood and charm in order to create that homey vibe. You instantly feel as though you’ve come home when you walk through the door, but there are also modern finishes that add charm and rental appeal. Like the floral wallpaper behind the hooks and bench at the very front, or the updated light fixtures.

When you think of a homestead you think of big, family-style dinners around a large dining room table. Enter this dining room setup, which is the perfect mix of old and new. The large table and high-backed chairs give off a retro vibe, but the modern hutch updates the look. The green wainscoting on the wall also adds lots of charm, especially against the natural wood beams, above.

In the living room the team kept the exposed wood beams and posts to create an open concept but homestead vibe. Then, unique pieces of furniture come together for a homely and purposeful vibe. Then Debra added in plenty of throws, pillows and a checkered area rug with calming greens, bringing the room together.

The kitchen is one of the most updated spaces in the design so that it can remain as functional as possible and appeal to renters. The farmhouse sink and shiplap walls still fit with the homestead theme, however, and the tiles below add even more charm and interest.

Before the renovation, the second floor was an open-space alcove with several single beds just thrown wherever they fit. It was fine for Reesha and Duncan’s guests, but not so great for a rental. So Scott and Debra created this primary bedroom (along with several others) throughout the property, crafting unique and cozy spaces for any and all guests to enjoy.

Before, the washroom space was awkward and not exactly somewhere you’d enjoy showering. Scott fixed that with this updated take, which also plays on the other new features throughout the home. There are subtle green shiplap walls and black hooks for design appeal, but the real showcase is the enlarged walk-in shower with its simple but inviting brick tiling.

When you’re renting a cottage, especially in the warm summer months, you want to spend time outdoors. Scott and Debra definitely extended the outdoor living space with this homestead setup, which includes outdoor cooking stations, a firepit area and lots of seating space.

One thing that really sets this new homestead hideaway apart is the addition of an outdoor pizza oven. It’s an adventurous element that renters with kids or families will be excited to test out, and it’s unique enough to generate extra interest with competing listings in the area. Speaking of, now Reesha and Duncan can list this rental for an impressive $500 per night during the high season, earning them plenty of income opportunity as they look towards their future.