Cailey Heaps, a successful real estate broker and mother of three, found her perfect escape on the rugged coast of Newfoundland, Canada. Despite living in bustling Toronto for most of the year, Heaps felt drawn to the peaceful and romantic atmosphere of the eastern coast of Newfoundland.
In 2021, Heaps stumbled upon a listing for a pair of historic saltbox houses in Salvage, a small coastal town with a population of just 108. The houses, built in the early 1900s, were in need of extensive renovation, but Heaps saw the potential for a unique retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
With the help of Reflect Architecture, a Toronto-based studio run by Trevor Wallace, Heaps embarked on a journey to restore the two houses to their former glory. The project, initially estimated to cost around 250,000 Canadian dollars, ended up totaling 1 million Canadian dollars due to unforeseen challenges and surprises during the renovation process.
Despite the higher costs, Heaps is thrilled with the outcome and plans to rent out the property on Airbnb when she’s not using it. The renovated houses now feature modern amenities while retaining their historic charm, offering Heaps and her family a one-of-a-kind retreat overlooking the ocean.
“It’s the most unique setting I’ve ever seen,” Heaps said. “You go out the back door, up the hill and come to a lookout where all you see is ocean, trees, and whales. It’s a magical place.”
The story of Cailey Heaps’ renovation project in Newfoundland serves as a reminder of the beauty and tranquility that can be found in unexpected places, and the importance of preserving historic architecture for future generations to enjoy.
