This cottage is in Maracaibo, a resort style, ocean front development on Salt Spring Island in BC. Membership includes some great amenities - marina, clubhouse, kayaks and tennis to name a few.

The homeowners have a large family that is growing in leaps and bounds with grandchildren. They have visited the island by boat for years but when some land near the marina became available, they decided to purchase and build. The vacation home sleeps 6 comfortably and makes a great place for their family to get together.

SMC Interior Design has worked with the builder on several extensive renovations for the owners. With this project there were two main tasks, one to use as many local trades and materials as possible and two to use finishes that were very durable and low maintenance. The owners also envisioned the cottage to have a nautical theme.

The stone used on the fireplace and exterior foundation is from the building site. The hearth material and granite tops are from Vancouver Island. The walls are finished in painted shiplap siding, sourced on Vancouver Island, eliminating the use of drywall.

The main flooring throughout is Douglas fir that has been antiqued and slightly distressed. The bedrooms have 100% wool carpet set into a fir border and bathroom floors are tile. It was a bit of a challenge to source wall tiles that pointed to the nautical theme without overpowering the room, however, the clients’ love of the colour blue helped with this.

The cabinets throughout have Shaker style doors with recessed beaded panels. Crowning jewel to this kitchen is the 10' long blue recycled glass island countertop. This top had to be installed in pieces due to transportation challenges, however, the installer did an amazing job of concealing the joints. 

The exterior cabinets by Brown & Jordan are stainless steel and repeat the beaded panel style. Hardware was purchased through a Marine supplier and are stainless steel yacht cleats. The cabin is close to the water and finishes for all hardware and lighting were selected to withstand pitting caused by the extra salty air.

The tables, dining chairs and headboards are made from local pine and fallen arbutus. Other furnishings were selected for their durability, darker colours and ease of maintenance. 

The late architect, Kat Sullivan, did a stunning job with the plan and the use of beams and skylights. The overall feel is relaxed and truly imparts a closeness with nature.