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You Can Stay in the Lakeside Landing Cottage From 'Vacation House Rules'

Scott McGillivray and designer Debra Salmoni built a heartwarming vacation cottage out of tragedy. Step inside Lakeside Landing with HGTV.

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Photo: Darren Goldstein

The Big Reveal

There's nothing HGTV host Scott McGillivray can't do. In this heartwarming episode of Vacation House Rules, the Canadian-American contractor takes on a project "unlike anything" he's ever done before: Lakeside Landing. Homeowners Jillian and Emerson found themselves in an unexpected situation and were desperate for assistance in finishing the remodel of their lakeside property. Read on for more about Scott's renovation. (And keep in mind this little cottage — located in Algonquin Highlands, Ontario — could be your next vacation rental.)

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Photo: Ryan Woon Photography 2011

The Lakeside Landing Project

Jillian's stepfather — who convinced the cautious couple to purchase the run-down property — promised to help them turn it into a lovely, lakeside retreat. Construction was halfway done when, in a heart-wrenching turn of events, Jillian's stepfather fell ill and unexpectedly passed away. The couple was left with an unfinished lakeside cottage and some serious bills to pay. As Emerson told Scott, this place cost "more than an arm and a leg." The duo needed help — and quickly.

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Photo: Darren Goldstein. From: Brian Kleinschmidt, Mika Kleinschmidt and 100 Day Dream Home.

Creating an Open-Layout Lakehouse

"Let's get this cottage back on track," Scott said, while concocting a plan to create an environmentally savvy vacation home complete with an open layout, stunning views and family-friendly spaces. Scott called for design help from his business partner Debra Salmoni. Together, the pair turn the property into an airy, glamorous and inviting lakefront cottage. They coined it "Lakeside Landing" before opening its doors to renters and vacationers alike.

Tour Scott's Family Home

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Photo: Darren Goldstein. From: Brian Kleinschmidt, Mika Kleinschmidt and 100 Day Dream Home.

Lakeside Landing: Super Sunroom

Each room in the gorgeously sunlit Lakeside Landing vacation cottage boasts a stellar view of the water. Scott capitalized on the surroundings by building a second floor onto the house. Now, the upper screened-in-porch is his favorite part of the entire design. "It feels like you're up in the treetops," Scott said. Debra created the stone-gray color palette, which harmoniously contrasts with the warm and earthy tones of the trees outside. This organic space is just the spot to unwind.

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