Barbara Milner has garnered considerable attention for her impeccable interior designs, and had her work featured in several prestigious publications. Recently, the founder of South Hill Interiors and her partner, Toronto-based lawyer, Todd Slonim, found themselves in the market for a bonus space to accommodate guests and enhance the outdoor wooded environment of their special Muskoka retreat.

“We chose to work with The Bunkie Co.,” Barbara says, “because we were blown away by the company’s Bunkie design options and building procedures. It was exactly what we were looking for in every aspect. We felt that we had found a company that not only was aligned with our aesthetic and caliber of product we were seeking, but also offered smart, versatile interior design. When we realized they are also a local company, the choice was obvious to us.”

The couple opted for The Bunkie Co.’s Alpine model as it provides comfortable accommodation for up to four people, which allows them to entertain larger parties of guests. Their Bunkie serves not only as a guest retreat but also as a space for their children to relax, watch movies, play video games, and read books. “They often choose to sleep in the Bunkie,” Barbara says, “it’s adventurous and fun for them. Todd and I also think it’s an excellent way for our kids to enjoy nature and build their independence while also being close to home. Guests love the design, fun factor, proximity to nature and privacy.”

The Bunkie Co. was instrumental in connecting Barbara and Todd with a contractor that was familiar with their product and confident that they could meet the couple’s timeline for completion. Even with the challenges of COVID still lingering (read: delays), the build was completed in time for the holidays. “Walking into the Alpine Bunkie for the first time during the holidays,” Barbara remembers, “was truly magical. A cozy, chic, retreat in the woods – it exceeded our expectations!”