Chi-chi chalet
NEAR THE SKI HILLS NEAR COLLINGWOOD, THIS IS MOUNTAIN MODERN LISA VAN DE VEN
Mountain Modern is the name of MacPherson Builder’s new collection at Windrose Estates in Collingwood, but was also the design inspiration for the site’s new Adelaide model home. The builder’s designer, Michelle Pasquale, looked to create a contemporary twist on a traditional chalet style in the 2,492-square-foot house. “I took what would traditionally be viewed as a modern palette — blacks and whites — and used that as my base, then introduced some natural elements,” says Pasquale, who also used pops of red for bold accent and texture to add dimension. “I wanted it to be inviting for both entertaining and to sit by the cosy fire — but with a modern twist.” Homes range from 2,492 to 4,255 square feet and start at $1,449,900. The sales office is located at 5 Cranberry Trail E., Collingwood, and is open Wednesday to Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Call 705-293-2201 or visit windroseestates.ca.
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Pasquale played with texture in the kitchen, using two finishes for the countertops — glossy quartz along the perimeter, and leathered granite on the island to “bring in a different dimension.” A butcher-block breakfast bar extension — ebonized to fit the colour palette — can be moved around for entertaining.
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By colour-blocking the dark grey and white cabinetry — rather than having the uppers white and lowers dark, for instance — Pasquale keeps the twotoned kitchen fresh and contemporary. A tumbled-marble backsplash completes the look. “It’s modern and straight-lined, but still a natural material,” she says.
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A focal-point fireplace features a textured marble surround that extends up, highlighting the great room’s ceiling heights. The mantle, meanwhile, matches the ceiling’s accent beams: built of MDF, they’re painted in high-gloss black — adding to the modern mountain vibe.
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“I’ve taken the base pieces of furniture and made them very modern,” Pasquale says. That begins with a white sofa and retromodern chrome and grey leather chairs, all from Restoration Hardware. A black-and-grey fauxfur area rug anchors the sitting space.