Photography by Julian Parkinson
This project encompassed the renovation of two neighbouring heritage saltbox houses and a shed into a seasonal residence and guest-house campus. Located on a peninsula accessible only by boat or foot from the fishing village of Salvage, Newfoundland, population 108, the structures are visible from passing boats. The client and architect wanted the design, therefore, to remain rooted in the local context and minimize impact on townspeople’s views. Indeed, the buildings look like simple and traditional, but well-maintained, Maritime houses. The interiors gently update the local vernacular while adding comfort. Walls are finished primarily with white shiplap, a more interesting and context-sensitive surface than drywall. The exceptions are the colour-blocked bedrooms, where orange and green were applied across floors, ceilings, walls, beds and lamps. Kitchen millwork was made of Baltic birch plywood and butcher-block surfacing to evoke locally available materials and fabrication methods. Furniture was selected to convey the spareness of life in northern coastal communities while adding bold colours and warm textures.
Canadian Interiors September/October 2024 Best of Canada Awards issue
