From Camp Crush to Cottage Legacy

STORY RENEE ALKASS | PHOTOGRAPHY SANDY MACKAY

As seen in the Muskoka Early Summer 2026 Issue.

It all began in the summer of 1979. Paul and Ruthanne Simpson first met at Camp Widjiitiwin, where they worked together as counsellors. One day in the dining hall, the young campers sang Happy Birthday to Paul as he turned 17. Afterwards, they popped the inevitable question: What was his birthday wish?

“A kiss from Mojo,” Paul joked. Mojo was Ruthanne’s camp nickname. “This brought whoops and hollers from all the campers,” says Ruthanne, who admits that she walked to the front of the hall and gave Paul a peck on the cheek. She recalls this fond memory while sitting in a corduroy chair in her new Port Sydney cottage. Paul sits nearby, basking in contentment. Sprawling views of Lake Mary stretch out behind them. “Three kids and seven grandkids later, the rest is history,” he says.

This year, the couple celebrates 43 years of marriage and moving into their custom-built cottage, thoughtfully designed to be shared with family.

The impressive six-bedroom cottage was created by premier local builder Peter Smith of Peter Smith Construction. The company, which has been operating for 25 years, specializes in the design and construction of turnkey residential projects. As a Red Seal carpenter who graduated as an architectural technician, Peter has a deep-rooted passion for custom building.

For the Simpsons, working with Peter was an easy decision. “Peter built my brother’s place,” explains Paul. “He did really good work over there,” adds Ruthanne. The Simpsons both describe Peter and his team as professional and kind, as they often welcomed the couple on site for visits and remained readily available to answer questions.

The project started in 2024, following the couple’s decision to tear down the cottage they’d lived in for 17 years. “With some structural issues and other considerations, we decided to rebuild,” says Paul.

“When I first met with the Simpsons, we discussed a renovation and what their options were,” says Peter. “But some things were limited in the renovation scope, so after we went through all the possibilities, we decided the old structure had to go.”

Though Paul and Ruthanne were sad to say goodbye to their cherished cottage, they were excited to redesign something new that could better accommodate their family.

The new cottage exudes a cosy, inviting warmth. Peter worked closely with Kerry Bice Design Services to develop a layout that prioritized function. Jennifer Pink of Design Interiors was also brought on board to help curate an interior embellished with beauty. When it came to the exterior, Mike’s Landscaping handled the transformation.

The kitchen sits at the centre of the 2,600 sq. ft. main floor, with the rest of the home unfolding around it. The Simpsons can look into every room while standing behind the centre island. “We wanted whoever was in the kitchen to not feel left out,” explains Paul. “And also enjoy our view.”

"Ruthanne made countless Pinterest boards filled with design inspiration. She explains that communicating her ideas to Peter and seeing them come to fruition was a seamless process.

Ruthanne is particularly proud of the antique door used in the pantry. “I really wanted an old door here,” she says. “I love the thick panels, original glass and antique door handle.” She explains that Peter’s team had no problem cutting the door to fit and is thrilled with the result.

The pantry became a wonderful addition to the kitchen, extending both storage and prep space. An additional sink, fridge and dishwasher are found here to make hosting a breeze. Kitchen appliances were purchased at Brown’s Appliances.

When it came to selecting colour palettes, Ruthanne had a plan. “I really wanted warm colours,” she says. “And I wanted the colours to flow between rooms.” BEHR Cracked Pepper colours the kitchen cabinets as well as many other nooks and crannies in the living and family rooms. Carrying the same colour throughout the home unites each living space in a way that feels effortless. Paint for the home was purchased at Wilson’s The Paint Store.

All About Kitchens built the kitchen cabinetry, the main-floor bookshelves, the laundry room cabinets and the bathroom vanities, while Muskoka Lumber & Building Supplies Centre Ltd. and Georgian Bay Forest Products Ltd. supplied the millwork, timbers and building supplies.

Engineered white oak flooring from Modern Home Carpet One Floor & Home in Bracebridge flows underfoot and complements many of the timeless furniture pieces selected by the Simpsons."

A grand dining table that can seat the whole family was purchased from The Cutter’s Edge, along with accent chairs in the living room and the bedroom set in the primary suite. Leather furniture was purchased at Kelly’s Home Furniture and most of the oversize rugs were sourced from Wayfair.

The primary sanctuary on the east end of the home features floor-to-ceiling windows that capitalize on sprawling lakefront views. Muskoka Lighting Company supplied all the modern light fixtures, which make every room feel current and timeless.

The den, tucked away on the west wing of the home, has its own charm. “By putting the den here with lots of windows, we can capture that winter southern sun,” says Paul. A shiplap ceiling, also painted Cracked Pepper, infuses the space with a classic cottage feel.

The basement was thoughtfully designed with the remaining five bedrooms separated into two wings and connected by a kitchenette. Now, when the kids and grandkids come to visit, they have their own privacy. A small playroom under the stairs, a thoughtful addition by Peter’s team, keeps the little ones entertained.

“This cottage really is our hub. We all get that feeling when we pull in the driveway,” says Paul, referring to that sweet, universal exhale all cottagers understand.

“I can’t imagine living anywhere else,” adds Ruthanne. As for Peter, he feels proud of the work his team has accomplished and is thrilled to know the Simpsons can finally enjoy their new cottage.

“The whole project went by in a blink of an eye,” he says. “Which is always an indication that things went well.” OH