New Face on Heritage
All Homes, Commercial, RenovationsA hundred years ago, the building that now houses MacLachlan Insurance Inc. in Thedford was carted into town on a horse and buggy.
A hundred years ago, the building that now houses MacLachlan Insurance Inc. in Thedford was carted into town on a horse and buggy.
Taking advantage of the view along the St Clair River was forefront in the addition and changes to this riverfront home.
Oke Woodsmith built this home 20 years ago and the ensuite was typical of its time. The space became small and cramped for the busy lifestyle of the owners. Working in the same footprint , Oke Woodsmith was able to capture the true space within. A stand-alone tub and glass shower walls gave the sense of volume. It was all tied together with ceramic tiled walls and vessel sinks on an open vanity.
Turning a simple cottage into a year round retreat, set on the Lake Hurons shoreline over looking one of the worlds best sunsets.
To take a small century home in the middle of an urban setting and then to modernize and personalize it were the driving forces when the owners purchased this humble home close to The University of Western Ontario in London, Ontario.
Heritage meets present day
This renovation was inspired by two things: the need to retire and to enjoy the north-westerly view of Lake Huron. There was also the need to expand and modernize the family cottage and make it flow for everyday life. Set high on the bank of Lake Huron, the tower was a necessity for the owner’s watchful eye for the day-to-day activities on the lake – “his afternoon watch “…
When you have the ideal property situated in your home town, rather then move Oke Woodsmith designed and modified the existing home and brought the interior finishes to the modern day. The modifications were a reflection of the owners and their lifestyle and blended well with the existing, the slight changes enhanced the overall look and feel.
The couple contracted Oke Woodsmith, who suggested a new home might not be necessary. Moving would have meant exchanging their 100-foot lot frontage, and their view of a beautiful ash forest, for a smaller property in another part of town.
A dilapidated lakefront cottage transformed into an award-winning home. In September 2009, the Ontario Home Builders’ Association recognized Oke Woodsmith’s efforts as the cottage was declared Most Outstanding Home Renovation. It was also a finalist for the Canadian Home Builders’ Association awards in the Single Detached Home Between 1,500-2,000 Square Feet category.