Title: Toronto Real Estate Broker Transforms Historic Newfoundland Houses into Stunning Retreat
Cailey Heaps, a Toronto-based real estate broker, found her dream escape on the rugged coast of Newfoundland in Canada. Despite living in the bustling city with her three children, Cailey was drawn to the peaceful and romantic charm of Newfoundland, where time seems to slow down.
In 2021, Cailey stumbled upon a listing for two historic saltbox houses in Salvage, a tiny coastal town with a population of 108. The houses, built in 1912 and 1914, were in need of restoration but held immense potential. Despite warnings from a local contractor about the challenges of the project, Cailey decided to take the plunge and purchased the property without even seeing it in person.
With the help of Reflect Architecture, a Toronto-based studio run by Trevor Wallace, Cailey embarked on a journey to breathe new life into the century-old structures. The renovation process was filled with surprises, from low ceilings to soft wooden siding, but the team persevered to retain the original character of the buildings.
The exterior of the houses was restored with new clapboard siding and metal roofs, while the interiors were updated with modern amenities while preserving the historic charm. The architects got creative with paint, using bold colors to define different spaces within the houses.
Despite the challenges and unexpected costs, the project was completed in May 2023, totaling about 1 million Canadian dollars. Cailey plans to rent out the property on Airbnb when she’s not using it, making it a unique and magical retreat for others to enjoy.
For Cailey Heaps, the investment in restoring the historic Newfoundland houses was well worth it. The stunning views of the ocean, trees, and whales from the property make it a truly magical place that offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
