LAKESIDE COTTAGE

The lakeside cottage of Mjölk owners, John and Juli Baker is located in Ontario overlooking Lake Huron. Having carried out most of the renovation and interior design work themselves, the Bakers’ holiday home reflects the aesthetic found throughout their shop, gallery, and publishing projects: pared down, functional, timeless design — primarily Scandinavian and Japanese — which embraces nature. The couple stripped back the home and removed the drop ceiling before painting the walls and floor white, for a fresh, open feeling. They kept the original stone fireplace as the centrepiece of the living room, and surrounded it with a combination of flea market finds and design classics including black AJ Wall Sconces by Arne Jacobsen for Louis Poulsen; birch shelves by Alvar Aalto for Artek; and a vintage Pernilla lounge chair by Bruno Mathsson.

The kitchen, designed by John Baker and built by Studio Junction, includes custom-built cabinetry and shelving in Carolina pine; a soapstone sink with a double drying rack; and brass details throughout including hanging rods, taps, and accessories. White PH pendant lamps hang in the dining area above vintage blue Danish chairs by Jorgen Baekmark; and by Studioilse for De La Espada, Together Extending Table, Bench and Settle. The high back of the latter acts as an elegant room divider between the kitchen and living room.

The master bedroom features Companions Bed by Studioilse, above which Shaker peg rails circle the walls to provide hanging storage for key items.

Photo credit: Juli Daoust Baker