Nestled on the picturesque shores of Lake Memphremagog in Quebec’s Eastern Townships lies Georgeville, a village steeped in charm and familial history. It is here that Leigh Partington and Mark Smith embarked on a heartfelt journey to build their cottage, entwined with memories, love, and a connection to the land that has anchored their family for generations.
Roots in Georgeville
The story of this cottage extends beyond bricks and mortar; it is deeply rooted in family ties. The land where Leigh and Mark constructed their 900-square-foot retreat originally belonged to Leigh’s aunt Mary. As locals in Georgeville for many years, the Partington family has become synonymous with the area. Leigh’s father and grandfather ran a construction company in the village, adding about 80 homes to the landscape over the years. The foundation of the cottage is not just physical but emotional, representing a heritage that Leigh has cherished since childhood.
Mark’s affection for Georgeville blossomed during his teenage years when he worked at the nearby Camp Wilvaken. His initial encounter with Leigh—sparked by her application for a job at a local outdoor shop—further solidified his connection to the area. “Georgeville is the heart and catalyst of many things,” Mark reflects, illustrating how his love for both the village and Leigh intertwined.
A Shared Special Place
Although the couple resides in Montreal, their frequent visits to Georgeville were rooted in love and family. Whether skiing, snowshoeing, or hiking on the rolling hills of Aunt Mary’s property, the couple has made countless memories together. Their wedding in 2014, held beneath an arch built by Leigh’s father on the family land, only deepened their bond with this beloved place.
When Aunt Mary indicated her desire to sell part of her property in 2020, Leigh and Mark felt compelled to express their interest. Their commitment to keeping the family together was evident, leading Aunt Mary to offer them a piece of the land that had become their sanctuary.
Designing a Dream
The couple acquired the land in September, appreciating the breathtaking views of meadow, birch, pine, and the majestic Mount Elephantus across the lake. Their initial plan of a modest container home quickly morphed into a desire for something more substantial. “It’s minus 20 outside, you’ve just come from cross-country skiing for two hours, and you don’t have running water,” Mark reminisces. His pragmatic perspective prompted them to seek a more permanent solution.
Capitalizing on family expertise, Leigh’s father David stepped in to help design their dream cottage. For Leigh, this collaboration was more than a building project; it was a chance to connect with her father’s legacy. The designs showcased a mix of practicality and aesthetic beauty, reflecting the diverse talents within the family.
Collaborating on Construction
With a budget of $150,000, the family launched into the cabin’s design. Mark’s Scandinavian-inspired vision merged with Leigh’s practical approach, and David lent his extensive building knowledge. Their creative process involved numerous discussions about layouts, storage, and even the number of bathrooms. David, with his decades of experience, provided grounding feedback, urging them to find practicality within their dreams.
Their efforts extended beyond paperwork and plans; they became hands-on with the build. Mark and Leigh spent many weekends assisting David, pouring sweat into tasks ranging from taping and sweeping to constructing themselves. The journey brought them closer as a couple, teaching them the values of teamwork and compromise.
Eco-Friendly Innovations
From the outset, the couple was committed to minimizing their environmental footprint. David’s addition of extra insulation would ensure the cottage remained energy efficient, keeping it comfortable year-round. They embraced sustainable practices, even opting to treat the wood siding themselves to achieve the desired Yakisugi aesthetic at a fraction of the cost. “We stained every side of every piece of wood you see on the cottage by hand,” Mark recalls, sharing the labor-intensive process of creating a sustainable and beautiful exterior.
As they transformed the cabin, they featured repurposed materials wherever possible. Their kitchen counter originated from leftover flooring from a friend’s renovation, and a fabric gifted from family adorned their cabinets. The theme of “patina” became their guiding principle—aiming to create a space that felt lived in and meaningful rather than pristine and stiff.
A Reflection of Love and Compromise
For Leigh and Mark, the journey of building their cottage has mirrored the journey of their relationship. They navigated disagreements, discovered new solutions, and ultimately crafted a space that represented both of their personalities. “We always met in the middle. We made something that’s aesthetically pleasing and practical,” Mark explains, emphasizing the balance struck in their partnership.
As they reminisce about their labor of love, Leigh reflects on the pride they feel in crafting both a home and a cohesive story—their own unique narrative interwoven with the rich history of Georgeville.
Conclusion
Today, as they share laughter and stories within the walls of their cottage, Leigh and Mark have created more than just a beautiful retreat; they’ve established a sanctuary that embodies love, legacy, and laughter. The cottage is more than a place; it is a homage to Georgeville, where the past and present converge, creating a future rooted in family, friendship, and the beauty of the land. In every corner of their home lies a story waiting to be told, a testament to the strength of community and the enduring power of love.
