Great Escapes with Colin and Justin (2020 - 2020)

Three homeowners set about designing the perfect build in very different ways.

Colin and Justin go on a journey exploring scale of design, looking at three distinctly beautiful rural retreats.

Designers Colin McAllister and Justin Ryan explore the North American wilderness to discover what lengths people will go to in order to create their perfect city escape.

Colin and Justin's rural journey takes them on a voyage of discovery into waterlocked homes. Visiting two unique island retreats, and one boat-access property, the design duo meet three architects who have gone to great lengths to build their dream home on the lake, using very different techniques.

Colin and Justin examine the past, present and future of architecture in a rural setting.

Colin and Justin follow the story of how and why architects choose to build with wood. The first property embraces the Japanese concept of forest bathing, with pine exteriors that match the surrounding woodland. The next property was a nostalgic impulse buy for its owner - who then spent years restoring the lodge and cabins to their woodsy former glory. And the final property is a red herring - a timber-clad cabin surrounded by forest, but its frame is made of recycled aeroplane steel.

Colin and Justin explore the challenges and successes of truly embedding a building into its natural surroundings. The first property is a 16,000-square-foot mansion, sitting on its own private island. Constructed 107 years ago, the surrounding gardens and landscaping are older then the home and create a truly magical escape. Next up is a 20-year-old home on Howe Island, a modern design that has stood the test of time thanks to its thoughtful and meticulous natural setting. The final property appears from one side to be a modern barn but opens out onto lake views. Built on stilts so as not to impose on the wildlife trying to find their way to the water, the owners have created a home generous to all their neighbours.