Scott McGillivray Conceptualizes a Collingwood-Based Latin American Getaway

Jess, Sabrina and Sue were raised by Uruguayan parents who were always there for them-not to mention their children. So when their parents retired, the sisters wanted to help them produce a little extra income through the family cottage in Collingwood, Ontario.

The plum location had tons of potential, but it definitely needed work. With an awkward layout, an unfinished carport, and bedrooms that weren’t exactly well-defined within the space, this trio knew they could use some serious help. So they called upon Scott McGillivray, designer Debra Salmoni, and the Vacation House Rules team. Here’s how they transformed this vacation rental into a calm and colourful Latin American inspired retreat.

Scott’s Vacation House Rules airs Sundays at 9 p.m. ET/PT on HGTV Canada. It is also available on the new Global TV App, and on STACKTV with Amazon Prime Video Channels. HGTV Canada is available through all major TV service providers.

Cozy living room with tiled fireplace and exposed beams

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Creating A Vibe

To establish the theme of this rental, the team used neutral colours paired with standout accents and intricate patterns. The tiling on the fireplace, for example, is something you could instantly picture at a Latin American retreat but also totally belongs in Collingwood thanks to the statement beams and matching mantel. Neutral walls and a dark finish on the floor tie it all together.

Wood cottage interior with old furniture and carpet

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Re-Evaluate Your Layout

To establish this rental as a coveted spot for clients, Scott pulled it all back and started fresh with an open concept. Before, the wood panels, drab floors, and awkward rooms made this space feel cramped and dated-not exactly selling points when you’re trying to get people to pay money to stay in your space.

Open concept cottage layout with decorative tiles

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Give Renters a Communal Space

Opening up the walls and creating a seamless layout makes a huge difference, not only in photos but in attracting renters with families who want to go away for some quality time. The living-dining-kitchen combo ensures plenty of space for everyone to keep in contact, no matter what they’re up to around the cottage. Meanwhile, that Latin American theme is ever-present thanks to the kitchen backsplash and tiling on the stair risers.

Grey kitchen with tile backsplash and walkout

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Crafting the Perfect Kitchen

Scott wouldn’t typically include quite so many upper cabinets in a rental (it’s usually best if renters can immediately see and access things), but because the family will still be using this space half of the year, they wanted a lot of storage options. The big focal point in this new kitchen, however, is the walkout to the yard. Now, not only can renters easily access the outdoor space, but the sisters will no longer have to pass plates from the window that used to live there instead.

Bedroom ensuite area rug and decorative palms

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Transforming a Primary Retreat

Where a half-finished carport used to be, Scott and co. transformed this space into an apartment-like ensuite just off the kitchen that their parents can use (That’s why the sisters helped make the headboard with Scott and a CNC machine). The unit is also great for renters, thanks to the separate washroom. It can either serve as the main escape for those footing the rental bill or as a unit for newer parents with small children that are still waking up for snuggles throughout the night.

Grey and blue bathroom with pattern floor tiles

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A Pretty and Polished Bathroom

The Latin American vibes continue in a serene, spa-like way with the main bathroom, which has been given a facelift with a new, storage-filled vanity and a large shower. The floors add tons of personality without overwhelming the space, which is what you want when you’re crafting a space for those who just want to enjoy their vacation in peace.

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Bedrooms Meant for Good Dreams

There are four bedrooms in this rental, all of which have been finished with the same flooring and neutral walls. Queen beds ensure plenty of extra sleeping space, and the dressers allow renters to unpack and feel at home. Luxe finishes like plants, lamps, and even the ceiling fan ensure this is a comfortable and chill zone for anyone.

Bunk beds with blue and white bedding and green nightstand

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A Space for the Kids

Before, this area couldn’t technically be classified as a bedroom because it featured a curtain rather than an actual door. Scott fixed that by adding a sliding door and bringing in bunk beds, which max out the small area’s sleeping space and create an instant, fun room that kids will look forward to calling their own for a few nights.

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Creating an Outdoor Oasis

Your rental doesn’t need to be on the water to feel like a retreat. Some shade, a space to congregate, and even a fire bowl add tons of vacay vibes to any outdoor space. Here, Scott and Debra crafted an outdoor oasis complete with a pergola, string lights, plants, and plenty of other lush elements to really get you into that vacation spirit.

Related: 55 Beautiful Backyard Ideas

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Setting the Tone

When it comes to vacation home rentals, never neglect the front of the property, which is the first thing renters will see upon their arrival. Scott added plenty of pretty structural and decorative finishes to this casa, completing the transformation from the inside out. The sisters and their parents can now secure $450 a night to rent out their space. This should bring in lots of extra cash for the family as they continue to enjoy their retirement years.

Watch: RENO REVEAL! Scott and the team transform this bland rental cottage into the ultimate canoe club.