Muskoka Magic: Cottage-Inspired Interiors for the Perfect Summer Retreat

1. Layer with Natural Textures

Muskoka interiors thrive on tactile materials that feel grounded and timeless. Think: linen slipcovered sofas, rattan or seagrass accents, raw wood furniture, and cozy knit throws. These textures add warmth and casual elegance without overwhelming the space.

Style tip: Use a jute rug layered with a plush vintage-style runner to define living zones and add dimension.

2. Keep the Palette Soft and Airy

A calming colour palette is key to capturing the Muskoka mood. Soft whites, warm taupes, weathered grays, and gentle sage greens echo the natural landscape. Pops of navy or lake blue bring in that waterside connection without going full nautical.

Style tip: Paint walls in creamy white and let your furniture and accessories do the talking with warm undertones and subtle patterns.

3. Celebrate the View

If you’re lucky enough to have one, the view is the star. Arrange furniture to face windows, opt for low-slung profiles that don’t block sightlines, and use sheer drapery to let light pour in. Even in city homes, you can mimic the effect with large-scale landscape art or organic-shaped mirrors.

Style tip: Frame outdoor greenery with linen curtains or woven shades for a relaxed and rustic finish.

4. Mix Vintage with Contemporary

A big part of Muskoka charm is the lived-in look. Pair clean-lined sofas with antique side tables. Let a sculptural light fixture contrast a shiplap wall. Mixing old and new keeps things personal and layered—never too polished.

Style tip: Don’t overthink the mix. A well-loved trunk as a coffee table or reclaimed wood bench can bring soul into an otherwise modern room.

5. Add Organic Touches

Nothing feels more like summer at the cottage than bringing the outside in. From simple wildflower arrangements to leafy branches in oversized vases, organic decor adds a fresh, spontaneous energy to your interiors.

Style tip: Keep a few ceramic pitchers or glass jars on hand for those impromptu floral clippings and market stems.

6. Create Cozy Corners

Whether it’s a reading nook by the window or a spot to sip your morning coffee, Muskoka style is about creating spaces that invite you to slow down. Add a deep armchair, a plush throw, and a small side table—and you’ve got your perfect retreat within a retreat.

Style tip: A vintage lamp or a flickering candle adds the finishing touch to a cozy corner.

7. Let Lighting Be Soft and Layered

Muskoka-inspired lighting should feel like golden hour—even after sunset. Use table lamps, sconces, and soft overhead lighting to create warm pools of light. Skip the cold LEDs and lean into bulbs that mimic natural light.

Style tip: Try a shaded chandelier or wood-beaded pendant to elevate your cottage glow.

Design That Feels Like a Getaway

Whether you’re spending weekends up north or simply want to bring that Muskoka peace home with you, cottage-inspired interiors are all about thoughtful layering, organic elements, and creating a space that feels like a deep exhale.

Because in a world that moves fast, your retreat—wherever it is—should slow you down.

Need help designing your own summer escape?

Our design team is here to bring the Muskoka magic to your space.