All photos Robin Sutbbert
Searching for a weekend home in countryside north of Toronto, the Oligvie family found 116 acre Coffey Creek Farm. Having fallen in love the country homes of Europe and unable to properly renovate the 1970's house which stood on the property, the Oligvies enlisted the help of architect, Wayne Swardon and designer, Sharon Mimran. Together this team started from the bottom up and recreated an old/new home reminiscent of turn of the century English and French country villas.
To create this look the architect used heavy timber and stone. He left exposed stone and stucco and featured all these elements prominently inside and out. Landscape architect, Curr Didrichsons, created landscape of ivy and shrubbery that mimics the grounds of an authentic villa. These details created a home the would look perfect in meadows of Provence, on the English countryside or on Coffey Creek Farm in Canada.
The entry way has wide pine floors. The enchanting stone arch and curved door, fitted with period latches is charming.
The living room reflects the interesting architectural elements including the timbered ceiling, exposed stone walls and stone mantel. Fabrics are warm and tactile including linens, velvets and sisal rugs. These elements are set off by iron occasional tables.
The formal dining room includes many interesting details. Notice the timber framing over the double doorways which bring you into the kitchen/ keeping room. Again natural materials dominate the space including leather, sisal and iron.
A great back entry! Take notice of the antique artillery basket on the right used as an umbrella stand. These were popular about 6 or 7 years ago at Brimfield Antique Market where they were stacked in huge piles from several dealers.
The arched entry adds addtional charm and interest to the home. I love the ivory covered ram above the archway.
Such wonderful new home that captures all the detail of an aged antique home. This is a great example of how architect, designer and landscape architect cam come together to create amazing work. Its hard to believe the home is only ten years old.
