A cabin in the woods x 2

I am sitting here blogging listening to city busses whizzing by, helicopters landing, ambulance sirens (I live across from a hospital) and the kids next door screaming and I need to remind myself why I love city living. Especially when there are beautiful, rustic dwellings like this around where all you hear are the sounds of crickets and birds chirping. I couldn't decide between these two so you get both. Beechwood Farm in Alabama followed by McIlvain Farm in St. Simon's Island, Georgia, by Summerour & Associates Architects.

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A modern chalet in Quebec by BOOM TOWN

In the midst of a cedar forest on Lac Gate in Quebec is this wonderful modern chalet designed by Montréal-based architecture firm BOOM TOWN. It is absolutely stunning inside and out. I can imagine enjoying the lake and the outdoor spaces in the summer and hunkering down and hibernating in style and comfort in the winter. (Photos: Angus McRitchie)

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A mountain cabin in Northern Italy

My mother is from Northern Italy and it is at the top of my travel wish list to visit (I was there once, too long ago to remember). When the opportunity does arise, I want to stay RIGHT HERE. This mountain cabin by architect Alfredo Vanotti is one of the most incredible homes I have ever seen - inside and out. A mix of concrete and wood surrounded in stone, with a magnificent view of the Italian Alps....I die. (Photos: Marcello Mariana)

And to my fellow Canadians, HAPPY CANADA DAY!

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Chalet Grelottiere Verbier

Switzerland-based interior designer Marianne Tiegen always blows me away with her interior design projects that take rustic to a whole other level. This chalet was given a dose of classy understated elegance and comfort with the plush furnishings and wonderfully cozy fabrics to cuddle on or under during cool nights. So gorgeous. (And in case you missed it, this is my absolute favourite project of hers). 

A revisit of 660 County Route 7

A couple of years ago I featured the 1850's cottage of Brooklyn design studio Workstead (I am obsessed with their lighting). It seems they have put this adorable dwelling on the market and the listing broker sent us a link. This would be my dream summer getaway.
Elegantly simple, this 1850s eyebrow colonial in Gallatin, with private river frontage on the Roeliff Jansen Kill, is truly unique. Wake up to a river view from the master bedroom and then fish, kayak, swim or canoe on the Class A trout stream right on your property. Wonderful details abound throughout this 19th Century farmhand's cottage, such as original wide plank floors, custom light fixtures, and a sunny deck right off the dining room. Mature trees, perennial plantings and a large lawn surround the house, providing both privacy and a feeling of openness. The cottage is an ideal retreat from city life, yet is close to many charming Hudson Valley towns. Conveniently located 2 hours from NYC, 5 minutes from the Taconic, and less than 25 minutes to Hudson, Millerton & Rhinebeck.

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