This open-concept bungalow is the perfect tiny, bright retreat

One of the best features of this cottage is actually on the outside. The spacious two-level deck is a great place for friends and family to gather and hang out. With a pastel green wicker couch, Muskoka chairs, barbecue, and a metal fire pit, it’s totally inviting and cozy. We love the red bell beside the back door—what a perfect way to call in your family from the lake a stone’s throw away.

In this main space, the living room, kitchen, and guest bedroom are all open to each other. Yet thanks to clever design tricks, each space feels different and separate. The kitchen has whitewashed walls while the guest bedroom can be closed off with a heavy purple curtain hanging on a rod, and a large olive green pendant anchors the living room.

The kitchen looks fresh with its whitewashed walls, butcher block countertop, and white lower cabinets. The chicken wire artwork and open cupboard on the wall are cute touches. Since counter space is limited, the microwave and toaster are tucked away in built-ins. (The coffee machine, on the other hand, gets a prime real estate spot.)

The guest bedroom, located behind the living room, is filled with two twin beds. We love how the homeowner isn’t afraid of mixing patterns! The colourful bed spreads look cool against the grey and white rug.

The cheery palette continues in the principal bedroom with butterfly throw pillows and playful pendant lights.

The bathroom is on the smaller size, but it stays bright with white walls, a honey-toned sink cabinet and mirror (which opens into a huge medicine cabinet), and geometric print shower curtain.

The shed is painted in the same navy hue as the house, but is clad with three pretty flower decals.