When you have an amazing beautiful location on a river and you have small glimpses of the river.. its time for an architectural intervention. When you have fond memories of cedar and white trim and the signature red roof of Canadian cottage country you paint with that exterior palette and mix in stone skirting, rich wood decking and whimsical gable decoration as well as a cupola and weathervane on that grand wrap around porch restored to her former beauty. What you get is a house that looks like it has always been there and will be there to serve generations to come

This project unfolded over time with the first undertaking to remove a coat of fresh white paint that had been applied just before the property was purchased. The fireplace feature commanded the room with its curious arts n crafts details while all the other character of the home had been stripped by white paint. See before photos . Dry ice was employed to remove as much paint as possible and we all fell in love with the characteristic “ chippy effect that remained. The Owner , a lover of antiques collected salvage and beautiful fixtures, hardware, lighting and antique furniture , even a sink basin so the warmth and patina of the glowing sunset is felt in the furnishings and textures. Lighting was designed to showcase nautical paintings and details were carefully coordinated.

We reinvented the major gathering space to eliminate a bridge that obstructed river views and the sunset from entering the space. The breakfast room got a boost in stature and light with the addition of a dormer and expansive windows over a banquette. A smart kitchen clothed in butternut cabinetry is no larger than the original footprint but functions elegantly with an new opening to connect to the den. Timbers in the ceiling that were discovered under drywall were left exposed. The same with the rough sawn porch rafters which are also exposed and contrast with the sapele ceiling. The front entry was angled and awkward so it was reduced and straightened out to offer an honest porch for a neighborly perch