Cayman Marshall International Luxury & Lifestyle - North Fall 2025 by Cayman Marshall Magazine

PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS & BUILDERS OF FINE SEASONAL HOMES

A NOTE FROM THE EDITORS

Todd Adair

President Cayman Marshall International Realty

As the leaves turn and the lakes quiet, fall in Muskoka offers a different kind of beauty— less about motion, more about meaning. It’s a time to reflect, reset, and reconnect.

In this issue, we’re proud to showcase stories that mirror that thoughtful pace. Our feature listing "Where Water, Light, and Time Converge" is a masterclass in balance—natural serenity meets architectural ambition. It’s the kind of property that doesn’t just invite you in, it holds you there.

Design also takes centre stage this fall. At Huntsville Design Centre, we see a bold yet deeply personal approach to interiors— spaces crafted not for show, but for soul. Similarly, European Flooring Boutique reminds us that great design often starts from the ground up, with materials that honour both tradition and durability. And Muskoka Lumber celebrates nearly four decades of craftsmanship, proving that legacy is built one board, one beam, one decision at a time.

Media Team

One morning, the lake is a little stiller, the sky, a little crisper. And just like that, the season turns the volume down—and the colour all the way up, and that’s how we know Fall in Muskoka has arrived. Suddenly, that morning coffee hits differently—especially when it’s enjoyed with a view and maybe a cranberry pumpkin muffin (recipe on page 32… you’re welcome).

We’ve filled this issue with stories that reflect the mood of the season: comforting, thoughtful, and quietly refined. Whether it’s your closet, your kitchen, or your next escape, it’s all about creating space for what matters.

We begin with Cayman Marshall Luxury Vacation Rentals, now beautifully evolved into a four-season experience. Whether it’s frost on the dock or sun on the deck, these properties feel like a private invitation to unwind.

Across these pages, you’ll also find a curated collection of some of the most beautiful properties we’ve had the privilege to represent—from private lakefront estates in Muskoka to refined homes in the GTA, and our ever-growing portfolio of Cayman Marshall Luxury Vacation Rentals. Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply dreaming, every listing reflects our commitment to timeless value and elevated living.

Each story reflects a shared ethos: considered choices, long-view thinking, and a commitment to quality that endures.

As always, thank you for reading—and for being part of the Cayman Marshall community. I hope this season brings you clarity, calm, and maybe even the keys to something extraordinary.

For those who believe chaos has no place in the cutlery drawer (guilty), The NEAT Method is a dream. There’s nothing I love more than colour-coded closets, a labeled pantry, and a space where everything has a home. But if your spice rack currently includes three paprikas, don’t worry—they won’t judge, they’ll just fix it.

This magazine is a labour of love and an ongoing collaboration. To everyone who lent their time, talent, and trust: thank you. You helped us tell stories that linger long after the pages have turned.

Here’s to cool mornings, comforting meals, and finding inspiration in everything around us.

Hope to see you around.

Olivia Lay

CAYMAN MARSHALL

THE COLLECTION

NORTH | FALL 2025

EDITORS

Todd Adair*

Olivia Lay

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Katie Sweiger

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Coady Fitzgerald

Helicopix

Olivia Lay

TJ LeClair

Janis Nicolay

Martin Vecchio

ADVERTISING DIRECTOR

Olivia Lay

CONTRIBUTORS

Martha Uniacke Breen

Nick Firth

Coady Fitzgerald

Laura Hewson

Carly Hoffman

Jeff Horst

Olivia Lay

Claire Parkinson**

Joseph Petrovic

Bianca Sheahan

Published in Canada FOR ADVERTISING INQUIRIES PLEASE EMAIL info@caymanmarshall.com

caymanmarshallmagazine.ca

All square footages are approximate. Some square footages include living space in the lower level. Information is subject to errors and omissions. Not intended to solicit properties currently for sale.

Cayman Marshall International Realty Inc., Brokerage www.caymanmarshall.com

Sales Representative* Broker & Broker of Record**

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Escapes MUSKOKA’S CURATING

There are places you visit, and then there are places that change how you feel. For generations, Muskoka has held that magic. A landscape of sparkling lakes, pine-framed horizons, and timeless cottages that feel both grounding and indulgent. It’s no wonder this region has become one of North America’s most coveted destinations for luxury travel.

Since 2018, Cayman Marshall Luxury Vacation Rentals has been at the forefront of this experience, with a portfolio of more than 40 premier properties across Muskoka. Unlike traditional rental companies, Cayman Marshall has always embraced a boutique approach: carefully selecting only those homes that embody the Muskoka lifestyle at its most refined.

In 2025, the company embarked on an exciting new chapter under the leadership of Jeff Horst and Nick Firth, who bring a fresh vision and an unwavering dedication to creating unparalleled guest and homeowner experiences.

family gatherings on the lake. While these warm months remain the peak rental season, Horst and Firth are leading Cayman Marshall into an exciting evolution: expanding the portfolio to embrace Muskoka as a year-round luxury destination.

In the shoulder seasons of spring and fall, Muskoka transforms into a quieter, more contemplative escape. Guests are discovering the beauty of misty mornings, fiery autumn foliage, and cozy evenings by the fireplace. And in winter, the region becomes something truly special: a snow-covered retreat just two hours from Toronto. Increasingly, Cayman Marshall guests are escaping the city’s hustle to enjoy hot tubs under starry skies, cedar saunas after a day of snowshoeing, and the simple luxury of a lakeside cabin blanketed in snow.

“With so many of our properties offering hot tubs, saunas, and incredible winter views, Muskoka is becoming the perfect antidote to city winters,” explains Firth. “We’re finding that more and more guests want to combine the beauty of Muskoka with the convenience of working remotely. They’re logging into Zoom in the morning, then stepping out for a sauna and cold plunge or skating on the lake in the afternoon.”

Traditionally, Muskoka has been synonymous with summer—long days on the dock, evening boat rides, and

https://m.caymanmarshall.com/search/rentals

For guests, Cayman Marshall is more than a booking platform, it’s a promise. Every home in the portfolio has been handpicked and meticulously prepared to deliver the kind of experience that makes Muskoka legendary.

• Summer escapes mean private docks, pristine waters, and full-concierge support for boating and dining.

• Autumn retreats offer breathtaking scenery, tailored local experiences, and the serenity of the off-season.

• Winter getaways feature hot tubs, saunas, fireplaces, and curated adventures like cross-country skiing or private chef experiences.

• Work-from-anywhere stays provide highspeed internet and stylish spaces that balance productivity with relaxation.

“Our goal is to anticipate everything,” says Horst. “Whether it’s making sure the firewood is stacked, the Wi-Fi is seamless, or the wine fridge is stocked, we want our guests to feel like they can just show up and live their Muskoka dream.”

that their investment is both protected and performing—delivering peace of mind while generating returns in every season this remarkable region has to offer.

As Horst and Firth shape the future of Cayman Marshall’s rental division, they remain committed to the boutique philosophy that has defined the company since 2018. Unlike mass-market platforms, Cayman Marshall is highly selective, choosing to represent only the most exceptional properties.

This curated approach ensures that every listing carries the Cayman Marshall seal of quality, whether it’s a century-old Muskoka cottage with timeless charm or a modern architectural masterpiece on the lake.

“We’re not trying to be the biggest,” notes Horst. “We’re building the most trusted, exclusive collection of rentals in Muskoka. Our homeowners appreciate that we treat their property as part of a legacy. Our guests appreciate that every booking comes with the confidence of Cayman Marshall’s brand.”

Picture yourself returning to your lakefront retreat after weeks away: the driveway cleared, the linens fresh, the home spotless and welcoming, as though you had never left. There is no sign of the families who rented, no lingering chores or disruptions, just the comfort of stepping back into your sanctuary exactly as you remember it. Behind the scenes, Cayman Marshall has handled everything: comprehensive care from housekeeping to guest management, elite marketing exposure that ensures your property reaches the right audience, and seasonal rental optimization that creates value year-round, not just in July and August.

For Muskoka homeowners, the Cayman Marshall difference lies in trust, care, and brand alignment. Luxury properties require a different level of service, and the team understands these are more than just homes, they’re sanctuaries. With the company’s discreet, professional management, your property not only returns to you in impeccable condition, but has been working for you, unlocking income during what was once considered downtime. More than ever, discerning guests are seeking short-term rentals in Muskoka, and Cayman Marshall provides homeowners with the confidence

The 2026 season promises to be Cayman Marshall’s most dynamic yet. With new properties being added to the portfolio, enhanced digital booking tools, and curated partnerships with local chefs, wellness experts, and activity providers, Horst and Firth are shaping an experience that goes beyond accommodation.

It’s about redefining luxury escapes in Muskoka, season after season.

For guests, that means knowing every stay will be seamless, unforgettable, and deeply personal. For homeowners, it means partnering with a team that combines worldclass professionalism with a genuine passion for Muskoka living.

With more families, executives, and international travelers all seeking authentic Muskoka experiences, demand for luxury rentals is growing. Now is the ideal time for new homeowners to join Cayman Marshall’s exclusive collection.

If you own a luxury property in Muskoka and are curious about the rental potential, Jeff Horst and Nick Firth are ready to have that conversation.

The Foundation of Finishes

DESIGNING FOR THE SENSES

HUNTSVILLE DESIGN CENTRE

How Huntsville Design Centre is redefining home through emotion-driven, integrated design

By: Laura Hewson

In the world of home building, one of the most exciting developments in 2025 is the increasing collaboration between architects, interior designers, builders, and cabinet makers. From the framing to the interiors, each blend their expertise to create a truly welllived-in space.

As we are coming to understand, interior design is deeply rooted in feeling. Emotional durability has been the emphasis for designing a space that brings out the joys of a home. From calm and earthy to nostalgic and energetic. One’s space can be shaped by well thought out choices. Expect 2026 to push this even further with the rise of neuro-esthetic design: interiors crafted to stimulate positive brain responses using light, texture, scent, and acoustics.

As we are coming to understand, interior design is deeply rooted in feeling.

More than ever the spaces we all inhabit need to be more functional and adaptive to our multi-faceted lives. 2025 has brought adaptive architecture to the forefront of designers and cabinetry-maker's minds. With hybrid work still the norm, our spaces must serve more than one purpose. Interior designers and architects are using clever zoning and flexible furniture, as well as mobile partitions, to really create a space that is both productive and beautiful. The climate crisis is also accelerating innovation in passive-design strategies. Orientation, shading systems, high-thermal-mass materials, and cross ventilation are some solutions. In Canada, for instance, thick, well-insulated envelopes and triple-glazed windows are paired with solar-gain strategies and earth tubes to provide natural temperature regulation.

Cabinetry in 2025 is less about matching the latest trend and more about expressing the homeowner’s story. Cabinetry can truly become a canvas for personal storytelling through colour, texture, local woods, and artisan made handles. Millwork expertise has helped keep our cabinets free of mess and clutter by fully integrating appliances, touch-toopen drawers, and push-latch mechanisms. Maintaining clean lines without sacrificing usability. This move towards a truly integrated space is leaving us with a need for a home that’s rooted in craftmanship and longevity with a heavy emphasis on the future.

The role of architecture, interior design, and cabinetry is no longer just about aesthetics, it’s about creating a better way to live well.

NEAT! Pretty

Not all of us were born to alphabetize our spices or fold our shirts into tiny, perfect rectangles. That’s where the organizers at NEAT Method come in –they’re experts at creating systems that work with your life, and your style.

By Martha Uniacke Breen

For many of us, the idea of being perfectly organized – kitchen cupboards filled with neatly labelled canisters of dry goods and rows of spices; tidy closets with perfectly aligned hangers and neatly hung-up clothes; spotless bathrooms with magazine-photo-ready toiletries – is the stuff of fantasy. Real life is chaotic.

It’s a deeply ingrained human desire to seek order in our lives, to find what we need easily and make sense of all the everyday detritus that life throws at us. The problem is that most of us don’t know how to create systems or develop habits that help keep the clutter under control, or we don’t have the time.

NEAT Method was originally conceived in 2010 by a duo of women entrepreneurs in San Francisco, who realized that well-organized spaces were as important to our psychological wellbeing as they are to maintaining efficiency. They also recognized

that a great organizing system should not only be easy to maintain and understand, but beautiful, too. (A large part of the company’s success comes from its attractively designed proprietary bins, boxes, canisters, and other organizing essentials, which are available for sale on its website, along with useful advice and ideas for organizing and decluttering.) Today, there are NEAT Method franchises across North America, including Toronto, which serves the GTA and Muskoka.

Jen Rowe owns and operates a NEAT Method in Toronto. As she explains, “It’s about designing sustainable systems that support ease, reduce stress, and reflect the rhythms of real life – especially for busy professionals, growing families, and those navigating periods of transition. We meet clients exactly where they are and create spaces that feel as calm and considered as they look.”

The company’s services range from everyday decluttering or developing custom organizing systems for a kitchen or whole house, right up to full moving logistics and unpacking and organizing services, handling all aspects from start to finish. “In some ways, we’re like a concierge service – we do whatever is needed,” she says.

A central component of the NEAT philosophy is that they understand organizing is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. A large part of what NEAT organizers do focuses not just on organizing and designing ongoing systems to corral everyday clutter, but on your family, your ways of doing things, and your lifestyle. “Everything we do is completely custom-tailored to each client’s household,” says Rowe.

The NEAT process begins with an initial (and no-charge) discovery call to discuss what you are looking for and different ways the company’s services could help. This is followed by an in-home consultation, where the organizer will examine the

spaces to be organized, suggest what can be done now and what can, if desired, be reprioritized for later – and begin to develop a plan.

And she’ll ask questions – lots of them, from straightforward questions like whether you’re an enthusiastic cook or a takeout connoisseur, to less expected inquiries like whether you are right- or left-handed (which can influence where frequently used utensils or spices should be stored).

Finally, while other home organizers tend to work side by side with you to accomplish the actual task of organizing – a process that for some people is time-consuming and even stressful –NEAT takes the pressure off. Clients can go about their day and come home later to an organized space.

Most importantly, as Rowe says reassuringly, “We approach every project with empathy. No guilt, no judgment – just thoughtful solutions that bring order and beauty to everyday life.”

Photos by Martin Vecchio and Janis Nicolay

Jen’s

TOP TIPS FOR ORGANIZING YOUR BUSIEST SPACES!

We’re all busy, but a few simple habits – which even the smallest family members can learn and follow – can help keep the highest-traffic rooms under control, both in your city home and at the cottage.

KITCHEN & PANTRY

Tip: Group items by category and keep high-use items visible and accessible. In city kitchens, decanting (storing foods in coordinated labelled containers) can be both beautiful and functional. In cottage kitchens, prioritize systems that support quick meals and effortless upkeep, like clear bins that accommodate original packaging.

ENTRYWAY OR MUDROOM

Tip: Create clearly designated drop zones for essentials like keys, footwear, bags, and sunscreen or bug spray. Whether you’re returning from work or the lake, a logical and easy-tomaintain setup helps keep the chaos at bay.

KIDS’

ROOMS & PLAY SPACES

Tip: Rotate toys and edit regularly – especially between seasons. At both the cottage and city home, fewer visible options equals calmer spaces (and kids). Use labelled bins so even little ones can help tidy up.

PRIMARY CLOSETS

Tip: Organize by type and colour for an elevated, boutique feel. In seasonal spaces like cottages, consider capsule wardrobes and labelled storage bins for off-season items, to make seasonal swaps seamless.

STORAGE ROOMS OR UTILITY SPACES

Tip: Use clear, labelled bins and categorize items vertically to maximize space. Whether it’s household backstock in the city or life jackets at the cottage, these zones can be functional and beautiful with the right systems.

THINK ORGANIZING YOUR HOME IS HOPELESS?

Jen and the team at NEAT Method have seen (and heard) it all and are here to help.

ORGANIZING HURDLE #1

“I don’t know where to start.”

Start small – one drawer, or one shelf. Momentum builds quickly when the first win is visible.

ORGANIZING HURDLE #2

“My family won’t keep it up.”

Sustainable systems are key – NEAT designs solutions that work with your habits, not against them.

ORGANIZING HURDLE #3

“I don’t have enough space.”

Often, you don’t need more space – just better systems. Thoughtful editing + smart storage = game changer.

ORGANIZING HURDLE #4

“I’m embarrassed by the clutter.”

There is zero judgment here. Life happens – and NEAT is here to help you reset and move forward with ease.

ORGANIZING HURDLE #5

“I don’t have time to organize.”

That’s where NEAT comes in. The NEAT team handles every detail, so you can focus on life, not categorizing and colour-coding.

Jen Rowe - Owner, Toronto 416.838.0560 | jen.rowe@neatmethod.com

By: Olivia Lay

Where Water, Light,

There are moments in Muskoka when the lake seems to hold its breath. Just before the sun folds into the horizon, the water stills, and every ripple becomes a brushstroke of molten gold. From the dock here, you can watch that transformation night after night, an unbroken ritual of light and silence that never quite looks the same twice.

This is more than a cottage. It’s a four-season canvas for life’s most treasured chapters. Set on nearly two acres of gently terraced land, the property greets you with the hush of mature trees and the wide-open invitation of 360 feet of private shoreline. The southwestern exposure means the day begins slowly, warms into a full blaze of afternoon light, and concludes with sunsets that seem to hold on. The view

sweeps across island-speckled waters, the kind that make you want to rise early, coffee in hand, just to watch the mist lift.

Inside, 3,742 square feet of living space offers five bedrooms and four bathrooms, a balance of scale and intimacy that welcomes both quiet retreats and lively gatherings. From the moment you step inside, the

and Time Converge.

house draws your gaze outward. The great room soars beneath a beamed cathedral ceiling, a stone fireplace anchoring the space in texture and permanence. A wall of windows frames the lake as if it were an ever-changing painting: in summer, deep blue and dazzling; in winter, a white expanse that glitters under the pale sun. Here, architecture doesn’t compete with the surroundings, it partners with them, each

beam and pane placed to let the outdoors do the talking.

The kitchen, open to the dining space, is where the hum of conversation lingers long after the plates are cleared. A gas cooktop invites slow Sunday breakfasts or late-night dinner with friends, while the adjoining Muskoka room, complete with its own stone hearth, becomes the favourite

gathering place when rain patters against the roof.

The primary suite is its own wing of the house, designed for privacy without isolation. Mornings begin with lake views from bed; days might start in the loft office just beyond, where you can work to the rhythm of lapping water, and end in a soaking tub beneath the glow of soft evening light.

Upstairs, family and guests have their own enclave: airy bedrooms, each with its own perspective on the property, and bathrooms finished with understated quality.

Downstairs, a media room offers a place to retreat for a movie or a quiet afternoon read, while the walkout can adapt to whatever the season calls for: games, workouts, or simply extra space when the cottage fills with laughter and clinking glasses.

Step outside, and the lake becomes an extension of the living room. Granite flagstone paths wind towards a natural sand beach where children, and those of us who remember being children, can wade, swim, or launch a canoe. Just beyond, a half basketball court invites friendly games under the open sky, and beside it a private golf practice area offers the perfect spot to fine-tune your swing while never straying far from the shoreline.

The boathouse, a two-storey marvel in itself, shelters 2 watercraft slips below and offers a complete guest suite above. With 2 private bedrooms, gas fireplace, wet bar, and threepiece bath, it’s a self-contained retreat for visitors or perhaps the perfect hideaway for teenagers in search of their own space. A wraparound upper deck crowns the structure, offering a front-row seat to the lake’s shifting moods, the perfect perch for morning coffee, sunset cocktails, or simply watching the rhythm of boats passing by.

As evening falls, the fire pit becomes the centre of gravity, its circle of warmth drawing everyone closer as sparks rise into the night. From here, the sports court is just steps away, a playful counterpoint to the stillness of the water beyond.

What makes this property remarkable is not just the sum of its features, though they are many, but the way it invites you to live in tune with the place itself. Summer days spill outdoors, drifting between dock, porch, and boathouse. Autumn colours blaze across the far shore, mirrored in the glassy surface of the lake. Winter blankets the scene in quiet, the air sharp, and the views crystalline. Spring brings that particular Muskoka scent: pine, water, and earth, promising another season’s worth of memories.

This is more than a cottage.

The setting is both expansive and intimate. Expansive, because the long vistas make you feel as though the lake belongs to you alone. Intimate, because every corner of the home, from the mudroom that welcomes sandy feet to the tucked-away office for stolen moments of solitude, is designed for connection, whether with family, friends, or the landscape itself.

This is the kind of place where traditions take root. Annual summer gatherings that stretch into the small hours. First swims in still-cold May waters. Cups of cocoa shared after skating on the frozen bay. The property doesn’t just accommodate these moments; it seems to anticipate them, as though built with your stories in mind.

It’s rare to find a Muskoka estate that offers this combination of light, land, and craftsmanship. Rarer still to find one that wears its luxury with such ease. There’s elegance here, yes, but also a groundedness, a sense that beauty is meant to be lived in, not merely admired.

And so, when the last embers fade in the fire pit and the boathouse lights reflect on the water, you’ll find yourself pausing before turning in. Because here, in this place, the day doesn’t end so much as it softens, one more chapter in a story you’ll be telling for years to come.

Recipe By: Claire Parkinson

from the oven

Pumpkin Muffins Cranberry

DIRECTIONS

PREP TIME: 15 mins

COOK TIME: 20 mins

TOTAL TIME: 35 mins

SERVINGS: 12 muffins

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1 generous teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon ground ginger

• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• 1 cup unsweetened pumpkin puree

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly

• ¼ cup buttermilk

• 2 eggs, lightly beaten

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• 1 ½ cups fresh Johnston’s cranberries from Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery

• 2 tablespoons pumpkin seeds (optional)

• 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional)

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. Butter or spray liners for best results.

2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, baking soda, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg.

3. In a large mixing bowl, beat pumpkin puree, melted butter, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla until well combined. Gradually beat flour mixture into pumpkin mixture, then stir in fresh Johnston’s cranberries until incorporated.

4. Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups full to the top, smoothing out any peaks. Place pumpkin seeds on top of batter, then sprinkle with coarse sugar to garnish.

5. Bake in the preheated oven until a toothpick inserted in the middle of a muffin comes out clean, 18 to 22 minutes. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before placing muffins onto a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

LOCAL SPOTLIGHT: For over six decades, Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery (home of Johnston’s Cranberries) in Bala has been synonymous with the bounty of Muskoka’s landscape. Family-owned and deeply rooted in tradition, the marsh has transformed the humble cranberry into a celebrated symbol of the region—whether enjoyed in artisanal wines, baked into timeless family recipes, or savoured on crisp autumn days by the bog. Johnston’s continues to honour the land through sustainable farming and a dedication to quality that reflects the heart of Muskoka itself.

From Witnessing Destruction to Being Part of a Creative process:

ONE CANADIAN JOURNEY

By Joseph Petrovic Principal Owner Breiter & Lönger

I remember lying on the grass of my family’s mountain property at home in Croatia, gazing up at starlit skies while the gentle mountain breeze carried the scent of cherry blossoms through the springtime air. In the quiet of those evenings, I could hear our horses grazing peacefully nearby as my cousins and I spent endless days running through the fields.

In the city where I grew up, our afternoons were filled with the simple pleasure of enjoying European cafés with their wide sidewalks, where style and elegance were woven into the fabric of everyday life. As a child, I was carefree, and completely unaware that trouble was brewing just beyond our peaceful world.

Then one morning, shortly after turning 15, I woke up to my city – a city of 150,000 people –surrounded by army tanks.

The cannons started blazing day and night. Long-range artillery pounded our city relentlessly, and the sound of broken steel-reinforced concrete became our daily soundtrack. Glass windows shattered, storefronts crumbled, and those beautiful European cafés with their sidewalk terraces – all that style and elegance I had grown up with – was being destroyed right in front of my very eyes, day after day. For thirty months, I watched helplessly as everything beautiful I had known was systematically demolished.

"My arrival in Canada marked the beginning of my transformation. Leaving the war zone felt like being released from a prison, a peaceful dream come true; I was living in a city again, this time the great city of Toronto.”

Leaving the war zone felt like being released from a prison, a peaceful dream come true.

When I took a summer job with a custom builder on Spadina Avenue, just south of Eglinton, it was completely accidental –a friend of mine simply offered it to me. I would take a bus every morning from Kipling Avenue across Eglinton to Spadina, and work on that home day by day, watching it being shaped into something beautiful and meaningful. From just wood framed walls, I watched the house being transformed right before my very eyes. Being part of bringing that beautiful house together was exactly what was missing from my life; it was exactly the therapy I needed.

Instead of watching European style craftsmanship and elegance systematically destroyed, I was now actively building it back. Working alongside talented Canadian designers opened my eyes to new possibilities and elevated my understanding of what true luxury and style could achieve. I was now collaborating with some of the market’s most creative minds to carefully install elegant flooring, custom millwork, and architectural details that would bring joy and comfort to families for generations.

My passion for European craftsmanship eventually led me to travel back to Europe to bring the best of the luxury market to Canada: European luxury flooring manufacturing. Returning to the continent where I had once witnessed destruction, I now came as someone who could bring its finest traditions and craftsmanship back to create beauty in Canadian homes. And from this journey, Brighter and Longer was born… the brand that would carry forward my mission of bringing European elegance and lasting beauty to Canadian families.

Since 1998, I’ve matured while working alongside some of Canada’s most creative and accomplished designers. As I collaborated with designers throughout the GTA, learning and growing in the process, I discovered something surprising: I have discovered a talent I didn’t know was there. I developed it further, particularly my love for working with wood—creating flooring, stairs, doors, and trim out of European white oak.

My experience has taught me an important truth: once people experience true style and elegance in their homes, they never look back. You will never pat yourself on the shoulder and say, “I’m glad my house wasn’t stylish and elegant.”

For me, each project isn’t just another customer or another job; it’s more than ever a calling. Being involved with projects from beginning to completion, executing every detail, choosing different shapes of wood flooring, custom furniture, staircases, trims, and doors, is still very cathartic for me.

I thank God for all the people involved in my life, and for all the opportunities I get to keep pursuing this relentless mission: bringing ideas to life and making elegance a reality. At the end of each day, when a project is finished, I know I’ve been part of creating something that contributes to making this world better—the exact opposite of the destruction I once witnessed.

Joseph lives with his wife and children and resides north of Toronto in the Springwater township.

Architectural details that would bring joy and comfort to families for generations.

The website to browse for the inspiration is europeanflooringboutique.com Contact at: solutions@europeanflooringboutique.com

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COMFORT MEETS LASTING LUXURY

DESIGNED WHERE INTENTION FEELS EFFORTLESS, RELAXED AND MADE TO LIVE IN FOR YEARS TO COME

37 YEARS OF

QUALITY, INGRAINED.

By Carly Hoffman

IN COT TAGE COUNTRY,

MUSKOKA LUMBER

IS A PROMINENT NAME...

...but while “everyone knows” Muskoka Lumber, the foundational details behind the company have never been front and centre. Founders and stakeholders don’t reflect much on the past, because they spend their time looking to the future; and they are far too focused on their clientele, to turn the spotlight on themselves.

However last year, Muskoka Lumber quietly launched a new website with their mission statement, emphasizing their dedication to uphold a longstanding customer-centric mandate:

Muskoka Lumber is a multifaceted operation with a number of stores where products are custom manufactured for the individual, and people are confident in the quality ingrained in everything they do.

This mission is rooted in the fact that customers in Muskoka are all very different. They range from contractors with businesses, to cottagers with dreams – and everyone in between with something to build; so Muskoka Lumber does not believe in a service methodology that squeezes everyone into one box.

Their made-to-order products, full-scope building supplies, and comprehensive services are crafted to fit the bespoke needs of contractors, owners, designers, and architects at every crossroad; because at Muskoka Lumber, quality isn’t a “promise.”

It is simply ingrained.

Today we’ll pull back the curtain to reveal almost four decades of benchmarks, driven by the company’s unparalleled approach to customer service.

TAKING ROOT

An idea that went against the grain.

The foundation for Muskoka Lumber took root when co-founder Paul Donaldson noticed a gap in the range of products and services available in the area. He didn’t believe in the cookie-cutter treatment of customers at the time; and he decided that the people in Muskoka needed to be better served as individuals by the local lumber yards.

Donaldson envisioned a lumber yard for every type of customer, that would go beyond a “one-size-fitsall” approach to products/services. When he asked Bob Potts to fill the role of co-founder and business manager, Potts didn’t hesitate. In that moment, Muskoka Lumber launched its tradition of raising the bar for local industry standards; and in 37+ years, they haven’t taken their foot off the gas.

ESTD. 1988

Port Carling: the Beginning

When Donaldson and Potts co-founded Muskoka Lumber in the heart of cottage country, they understood the importance of exceptional customer service. Their goal was to fill orders the same day whenever possible with “no charge” delivery – which required a vast inventory, and several trucks to ensure the highest possible level of customer satisfaction.

We built our business on service and relationships. It’s all about genuinely caring for our customers. We are very interested in the project, and the people behind the project as well.

- Bob Potts, Co-Founder & Chairman of the Board

Today, you will find eleven storage sheds in Port Carling (where a large selection of the most popular lumber profiles are kept in stock, and under cover), plus two Mills – where quality material is custom milled to order, before pre-finishing.

PHOTOS FEATURE: Architectural Design, Building Materials, Windows & Doors, Custom-Milled Lumber, & Custom Finishing by Muskoka Lumber

The bespoke milling and pre-finishing services available for exterior siding (as well as interior trims and finishes) are very exciting for architects and designers, who want the freedom to flex their creative muscles.

THE RETAIL SIDE OF MUSKOKA LUMBER IS EXTENSIVE; AND THE CUSTOM MANUFACTURING SIDE OF THE BUSINESS HAS GIVEN THEM

A UNIQUE MARKET NICHE

These services are also a wonderful perk for owners who want to match a siding style from a cherished family cottage or home. All they need to do is bring a sample to Muskoka Lumber, and the machine/molder operators will create specialized knives to replicate the siding with stunning accuracy – then, the finishing team can reproduce the colour/concept.

1988 1993 1995 2003

Muskoka Lumber was cofounded in the heart of cottage country. The goal? To go beyond a “onesize-fits-all” approach to customer service, and fill orders the same day whenever possible (with “no charge” delivery).

This required several trucks and a large inventory. From 1988 to 1992 co-founders Paul Donaldson and Bob Potts concentrated on growth, and constructed additional storage buildings on the property to ensure all materials were covered.

In March of 1993 Muskoka Lumber established their second full-service retail outlet, with a drivethru pickup area. This Spring, construction of their new store was completed, and after 32 years on Wellington St. in Bracebridge, they

In May of 1995 Muskoka Lumber expanded their service area to South and West Muskoka – allowing customers faster access to basic building supplies, and a greater selection of building materials + custom-milled lumber products.

Officially Launched

For years, Paul Donaldson had been helping his customers draft plans for their cottages. Many warm memories were made around kitchen tables as dreams took shape on paper, and material lists were created... But he had a strong feeling that customers would need government certified plans in the near future.

Donaldson’s prediction was put into action – and the Muskoka Lumber Architectural Design Centre was launched in 2003 (two years before certification became a requirement).

Muskoka Lumber Bracebridge location, circa. 1993

2006 2013 2014 2018

PORT CARLING FINISHING SHOP

The Final Touches

With a vast selection of custom-milled lumber + timber products now available, the addition of a custom finishing shop was a natural step in Muskoka Lumber’s evolution.

Now, customers can save time and money by sending interior/exterior products to the “paint shop” for pre-finishing. Compared to painting on site after installation, advanced machinery + paint lines produce a better-quality finish ahead of time; and the process can be tailored to a customer’s specific creative vision.

MACTIER

Serving North & West

With a location in MacTier, Muskoka Lumber bolstered their ability to better serve customers who are a little further North, and West (closer to Seguin and Parry Sound/Georgian Bay Townships).

HUNTSVILLE Fifth Store, Third Mill

In addition to being the most Northeastern location to date, Huntsville is home to another Mill; and a Mill on this side of Muskoka achieves a whole new level of custom manufacturing (and customer service).

WINDOW & DOOR CENTRE

A Clear Choice

“Frame-by-Frame,” Muskoka Lumber continues to build an expansive suite of quality products and services. They had always carried windows and doors, but their 30th year in business marked the launch of their dedicated “Window & Door Centre.”

Here, a full-service team supplies clientele with state-of-the-art custom window/door packages, efficient installation, and streamlined local service.

2nd Muskoka Lumber Truck, Port Carling circa. 1989

While commanding the “custom” corner of the market, Muskoka Lumber also stocks Douglas Fir Timber, up to 16” x 16” and up to 40’ long (custom-cut sizing available)

LOOKING FORWARD

THE PLEDGE TO PUSH “PAST THE TREE LINE”

To empower individuality, founders and team members came out of the gate working hard for Muskoka Lumber products and services to be “custom” – which was a forward-thinking idea in the 80s.

Today, the second generation of company leaders uphold this boundary-pushing tradition with a hunger to remain on the cutting edge of what can be supplied to owners, builders, and designers in the region.

From the most recent lumber manufacturing processes, to state-of-the-art window and door systems – they’re simply in the habit of thinking proactively to “push past the tree line” of what a typical lumber store will provide.

“ “

Muskoka Lumber is a key partner, providing top-quality building products, manufacturing, and paint facilities. This local sourcing helps us deliver high-end builds on

time.

- JS Custom Builders

“We search the world for the best our industry has to offer, so that we can bring it to Muskoka; and we personally create/test new products, to make the latest innovations available for your projects. This forward-thinking approach is part of a longstanding pledge to our customers: you will never have to wonder if you could have found better products or services anywhere else.” – Jason Sifft, President

Since 1988, the Muskoka Lumber Team has made it clear that when it comes to recognizing every want or need their customers may have, they don’t believe in limitations... and from what we can see, they never will.

Visit: www.muskokalumber.ca

Follow: @muskokalumber on Instagram

WINDOWS | DOORS | FACADES

LEADERS IN LUXURY REAL ESTATE

BEDROOMS, 1 BATH, 606 FT. FRONTAGE, 1,370+ SQ. FT. 1.48 ACRES

BEDROOMS, 3 BATHS, 242 FT. FRONTAGE, 2,208+ SQ. FT.

BEDROOMS, 3 BATHS , 288 FT. FRONTAGE, 4,670 SQ. FT., 4.5 ACRES

BEDROOMS, 10 BATHROOMS, 800 FT. FRONTAGE, 2.36 ACRES, 12,000 SQ. FT. | $12,950,000

BEDROOMS, 9 BATHS, 483 FT. FRONTAGE, 7,480 SQ. FT., 5 ACRES | $15,994,000

8,000 FT FRONTAGE, 70 ACRES | $19,999,000

CUSTOM INSURANCE SOLUTIONS

• Recreational vehicles, including high-value watercraft and classic watercraft

• Valuable collections including jewelry, art, and wine

• Excess liability for properties worldwide

• High-value homes and cottages, including those with short-term rentals

• Classic and high-performance car collections

BURLINGTON, OAKVILLE, MISSISSAUGA, TORONTO & BEYOND South

1+3 BEDROOMS, 2+3 BATHS, 179.54 X 306 FEET, 4,700+ SQ. FT.

$3B

Total Career Sales

$230M

Total Sales Volume in 2024

$4.01M

Average Sale Price

$37M

Highest Trade to Date

$392M

Private Collection: $392M in exclusive listings, with properties up to $25M

CAYMAN MARSHALL ADVANTAGE

“Become so skilled, so vigilant, so flat-out fantastic at what you do that your talent cannot be dismissed.” – Oprah Winfrey

When we opened the doors of Cayman Marshall International Realty Inc. as a small boutique brokerage firm to serve the Muskoka real estate market in 2012, we did so with the intention of redefining the level of service that clients could expect from our real estate professionals. Since then, we have grown into an impressive team of top-producing realtors and brokers, committed to ensuring our clients receive the highest level of service when buying or selling property in one of Canada’s most sought-after luxury destinations.

We at Cayman Marshall have been entrusted with the most prestigious waterfront properties in Muskoka. As leaders in luxury and waterfront real estate, we have had record sales on many of Muskoka’s finest lakes. With sales now surpassing the multi-billion-dollar mark, we’ve secured our position as a leader in luxury real estate. We also offer a complete selection of luxury cottage rental properties.

We have offices in Port Carling, Toronto, and our allnew location in Huntsville, which also serves the Lake of Bays area. Our in-house professionals have developed proprietary online tools and software, interactive and intuitive websites, lifestyle tours, stunning photography, and an astonishing network of over 400 local and international referral partners to ensure our clients’ listings get the exposure they need to attract the most discerning local and international buyers.

We currently print eight issues of our Cayman Marshall magazine per year, with an annual distribution of 250,000. Each magazine is delivered to the front door of homes and cottages of high-net-worth clientele throughout Ontario.

We are proud to mention that the Cayman Marshall Port Carling brokerage was voted by a panel of international

The Cayman Marshall team celebrating 2018 sales in Montego Bay Jamaica.

judges to be the “Best Real Estate Agency in Canada” two years in a row—a title that we cherish!

Cayman Marshall was also named one of “Canada’s Fastest Growing Companies” by Maclean’s magazine for three years (2018, 2019 & 2022). We have also been named one of Canada’s fastest growing companies by the Globe and Mail. We expect to keep our title as the disruptor in luxury real estate.

Founded on the principles of teamwork, service, and value, Cayman Marshall is the best advantage for buyers and sellers alike in Ontario. If you’re looking for a real estate solution that’s undeniably different, please reach out to myself or one of my teammates and start experiencing the advantage!

Todd Adair

MEET OUR SOUTH AGENTS

HEAD OFFICE: 202-97B Joseph St, Port Carling, ON P0B 1J0 | 705-765-5759

BRANCH OFFICE: 20 Main St. W., Huntsville, ON P1H 2C3 | 705-765-5759

TORONTO OFFICE: 200-99 Yorkville Ave, Toronto, ON M5R 3K5 | 647-696-4733

OAKVILLE OFFICE: 21-132 Trafalgar Rd, Oakville, ON L6J 3G5 | 416-276-0632

NATALIE COSTELLO

Managing Partner &

Sales Representative

In an industry where the fierce thrive, Natalie Costello stands as a formidable force. With over a decade of experience, she’s earned a reputation as a trusted advocate for clients buying, selling, and investing. Her work ethic, integrity, and market expertise consistently deliver exceptional results, making every client feel like her top priority. Off duty, Natalie loves family time with her husband and kids.

HELENA BRATINA

Sales Representative

Originally a native of Slovenia, Helena has worked alongside her fellow agents for many years. Helena's unique talents, not only is an agent but also are a stylist, as an integral component of the team's sales success, along with her prominence in this close-knit community. “It’s so exciting to join CM, with all the tools they have to help us and our clients succeed,” she says.

BIANCA SHEAHAN Managing Partner

Chief Sales & Marketing Officer

Bianca is revolutionizing real estate marketing at Cayman Marshall South, crafting bold, market-shifting campaigns that elevate every property and drive remarkable results. Her passion for innovation brought her to CM, where she thrives on making properties irresistible and maximizing value for clients. Outside of work, Bianca embraces lakeside living with her husband, daughter, and their dog.

BLAIR CHAMI

Sales Representative

Blair’s decade as a Private Chef in Muskoka evolved into a thriving real estate career, driven by his passion for making a meaningful impact in clients’ lives. He is known for providing meticulously tailored service that exceeds expectations. Beyond real estate, Blair enjoys staying active at the gym, exploring the city’s culinary scene, and unwinding with a captivating book and a glass of red wine.

BRODIE BEVAN

Sales Representative

Brodie is a true Oakville native from River Oaks. She is deeply connected to her community and committed to excellent customer service. Brodie is a mom of two vibrant kids, spending most of her time chasing after them, but also enjoys time with friends, and is learning to golf—wish her luck! Excited to be a part of Cayman Marshall, Brodie is ready to guide clients through the real-estate market with confidence and ease.

PAIGE CLIFFORD

Sales Representative

With a passion for property and design, and after moving often during her husband’s NHL career, Paige brings a refined perspective to Muskoka real estate. Now based in Toronto and cottaging in Muskoka—where she and her husband were married—Paige was inspired to join Cayman Marshall after experiencing their exceptional service firsthand. Raising three boys who love hockey and boating, she offers elevated guidance with a deeply personal touch.

MEET OUR NORTH TEAM

TODD ADAIR

President/Sales Representative

Todd became the President of Cayman Marshall International Realty in 2012. He then became the majority shareholder and purchased the entire company. In Todd’s downtime, you will find him buying, building, or renovating his real estate projects, on the water wakeboarding and kite surfing, or hacking up the fairways of a local golf course. However, Todd’s most important job is being a father to his two children.

KRISTIN McCREA Office Manager/Personal Assistant to Todd Adair

Kristin and her family enjoy calling Muskoka home. In 2015, Kristin began her career with Cayman Marshall and has been lucky to work alongside some of the most talented agents in the business. During her spare time you can find Kristin and her family experiencing all the outdoor activities that Muskoka has to offer.

MEREDITH CAMPBELL Designer

Meredith was born and raised in Mississauga and spent her summers as a child exploring Muskoka. Meredith developed a love for architecture and design at a young age and was able to turn her passion into a career after completing her education in Interior Design at Ryerson University. With over five years of experience in the design industry, Meredith is developing her craft while creating beautiful and timeless interiors.

NEIL BROWN Vice President of Sales & Marketing/Sales Representative

Neil gravitated to the shorelines of Muskoka in 2000 pursuing a passion for watersports. His background as an athlete and affinity for coaching lead to a successful 20-year career in the luxury boat industry, where he was able to gain a deep understanding of the Muskoka cottage lifestyle. “Working with Todd and his team as clients over the years, I knew I had to be part of Cayman Marshall's unique approach and culture.”

CLAIRE PARKINSON

Broker of Record

Born and raised in Muskoka, Claire developed a passion for real estate at a young age through her father’s timber-frame and log-home company. Having been in the industry since 2016, she has gathered knowledge and appreciation for roles within the business from administration, home staging, working with buyers and sellers, to now assisting the team at Cayman Marshall.

HEAD OFFICE: 202-97B Joseph St, Port Carling, ON P0B 1J0 | 705-765-5759

BRANCH OFFICE: 20 Main St. W., Huntsville, ON P1H 2C3 | 705-765-5759

TORONTO OFFICE: 200-99 Yorkville Ave, Toronto, ON M5R 3K5 | 647-696-4733

OAKVILLE OFFICE: 21-132 Trafalgar Rd, Oakville, ON L6J 3G5 | 416-276-0632

NORTH AGENTS MEDIA TEAM

OLIVIA LAY Media Team

Olivia is a truly global soul who has woven her life across three countries –Australia, Hong Kong, and Canada. Though originally born in Australia, she has joyfully embraced Muskoka as her home. Olivia's worldly journey, immersed in diverse traditions, cultures, and languages, has enabled her to appreciate and understand the rich tapestry of life's myriad experiences, along with a keen interest in real estate. She's thrilled to be a part of the Cayman Marshall team.

COADY FITZGERALD Media Team

Born in Toronto and raised in Barrie, it was only a matter of time before his journey continued north. With a deep love of visual mediums and a background in marketing and copywriting, Coady has spent years crafting stories that bring local businesses and communities to life. Next on the agenda: bring that same passion and expertise to the business and real-estate landscape of Muskoka.

TJ LECLAIR Media Team

TJ grew up spending his summers at his cottage on Lake Muskoka, nurturing his love for the outdoors. With over half his life in real estate photography, including five years on the California coast, he knew Muskoka was home. Raised with a successful broker father, real estate is in TJ's blood, but his passion lies in artistry. TJ is excited to bring his vision and expertise to the Cayman Marshall team.

CHRIS ROBERTS Media Team

Born in the UK, Chris followed his passion for skiing to Whistler, where a chance meeting with his future wife — a lifelong Muskoka summer resident — changed his path. After one visit, he knew Muskoka was the place to build a life. Today, Chris is proud to call Muskoka home, bringing his relationship-focused hospitality background to his work on the media team.