If you know anything about design royalty, then you already adore Colin McAllister and Justin Ryan. The dynamic duo, affectionately known as Colin and Justin, have built a legacy of transforming spaces and inspiring audiences worldwide. From their hit shows Hotel Hell and Cabin Pressure to their bestselling book Escapology, these Scottish-born, honorary Canadians have been reinventing how we view interiors for years. Now, they’re back with their most ambitious project yet: Colin & Justin’s Sub-Zero Reno.
RELATED: Catching Up with Colin & Justin: All About Escapology. >>>
Premiered on Paramount+ Canada on January 31, 2025, this six-part series dives into their first major winter renovation, an extraordinary feat set in the harsh landscapes of Haliburton, Ontario. With temperatures plunging to minus 40 degrees Celsius, the show promises to be as bone-chilling as it is heartwarming—just the kind of blend you’d expect from these seasoned pros.
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From Scotland to the Prairies: Their Canadian tale
Colin and Justin aren’t just designers; they’re storytellers, adventure-seekers, and unabashed lovers of Canada. Since embracing their new home, the pair have immersed themselves in the country’s rugged beauty and unrelenting winters. “For two city-dwelling Scots, we’re constantly in awe of Mother Nature’s natural beauty,” Colin shared. It’s this admiration for the great Canadian outdoors that makes Sub-Zero Reno such a fitting addition to their repertoire.
The series revolves around a dilapidated lakeside cabin in Haliburton—once a storage space for their projects. Tasked with turning it into a dreamy four-season home, Colin and Justin faced more than design challenges. From icy roads to delayed deliveries, the journey tested their limits in every way. “There were many times we just wanted to curl up somewhere warm and escape it all,” Justin admitted. But true to form, they persevered.
Tackling winter, one beam at a time
Renovating in sub-zero temperatures is not for the faint-hearted, and Colin and Justin were quick to recognize the value of local expertise. “You wouldn’t ask a Hawaiian to build you an igloo,” Colin quipped. That’s why they leaned heavily on their contractor, Brad Lodge, and his experienced team. Their gung-ho attitude and deep knowledge of Haliburton’s harsh winters helped turn what seemed impossible into reality.
From the outset, the duo made bold design choices, focusing on creating a home that’s as functional as it is breathtaking. Triple-glazed windows from Ontario’s Everlast Group allowed them to embrace their dream of “acres of glass” while keeping the space cozy. “We aspired to provide a maximum connection to the outdoors,” Justin explained, and their technology-forward approach made it possible.
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A celebration of resilience and Canadian spirit
Colin and Justin’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience. The pair endured countless setbacks, including discovering their lakeside cabin’s front elevation was rotting, forcing them to leave it exposed to the elements for weeks. “Seeing a huge dump of snow literally on our interior fireplace looked pretty, but it was really disheartening,” Justin said. Yet, they pushed through, channeling their love for design and their shared vision into every detail.
For them, Haliburton was more than just a setting; it was a partner in the process. “It really takes a village—and in this case, Haliburton Village!” Colin emphasized. From local shopping to the sense of community, they found support that made even the coldest days bearable. And their efforts have created more than a house; they’ve built a sanctuary that reflects the heart of Canada itself.
Design, reinvented
Colin and Justin are known for pushing boundaries, and Sub-Zero Reno is no exception. This time, the focus wasn’t just on aesthetics but on creating a space that could evolve with the seasons. Incorporating natural textures like timber, stone, and rustic weaves, they achieved a balance of modernity and warmth. “Design is about making the heartbeat faster,” Justin shared. Their new home embodies this philosophy, offering spaces that invite both serenity and joy.
One standout feature is their expansive drawing room, an extension equal in size to their first cottage. “This time the space is given over to one large single space—a world where we can read, listen to music, and immerse ourselves in an incredible view,” Colin revealed. It’s moments like these that remind us why their designs resonate on such a deep level.
Reality meets realness
If there’s one thing Colin and Justin pride themselves on, it’s authenticity. “Reality shows need reality,” Justin noted. Their willingness to showcase both the highs and lows of the renovation process makes Sub-Zero Reno more than just another home improvement series. It’s a celebration of grit, creativity, and the sheer joy of bringing a vision to life.
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The duo’s ability to connect with their audience is rooted in their transparency. “When we meet people at events, they often say, ‘You’re exactly as you are on television,’” Colin shared. This relatability has earned them a loyal following, eager to see how their latest venture unfolds.
What’s next for Colin and Justin?
Between promoting Sub-Zero Reno, working on their magazine Kabin, and finalizing new collections for Colin + Justin Home, the pair show no signs of slowing down. “Break? What does that even mean?” Justin joked. Their boundless energy and passion for design continue to fuel their creative pursuits, leaving fans wondering what bold project they’ll tackle next.
For now, the duo is savoring the fruits of their labor. “Bone chillingly cool,” is how Justin sums up the project, a phrase that captures both the literal and figurative essence of their journey. With a home that seamlessly marries function and beauty, they’ve once again proven why they’re at the top of their game.
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A must-watch adventure
Colin & Justin’s Sub-Zero Reno isn’t just a show; it’s an experience. It’s about pushing boundaries, embracing challenges, and finding beauty in the harshest conditions. Whether you’re a design enthusiast, a fan of the duo, or simply someone who loves a good story, this series promises to inspire.
As Colin and Justin put it, “Reach your limits and then stretch them—it’s the only way to grow.” Their story, much like their designs, is a reflection of this ethos. Tune in to Paramount+ Canada on January 31 to witness their most daring adventure yet. And remember: if they can make it through a Canadian winter with style and grace, maybe we can, too.
