“In summer, my favourite outdoor activity is going back inside”
As winter melts away, we warmly embrace the arrival of spring—a season that ignites our anticipation for sun-drenched beach days, ice cream treats, and cherished cottage getaways. This is the perfect moment to start preparing your cottage for summer adventures, and today, we invite you to explore one enchanting cottage that embodies this spirit: Peninsula Paradise. You may recognize this project from its feature in this month’s House and Home’s Before & After issue, and in honour of that celebration, we’re excited to share an exclusive behind-the-scenes look into the thought process behind the design, focusing on spaces not featured in the article.
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Chester, this 120-year-old cottage was lovingly maintained but carried an air of darkness that begged for transformation. With the intent to infuse the space with liveliness and color, Victoria Armour – head designer, drew inspiration from the vibrant world of Palm Beach, merging it with a touch of old-world charm. The renovation was a labor of love that spanned ten months, guided by a vision to bring a refreshing perspective to a traditionally Cape Cod-inspired exterior—where timelessness meets surprise.
Among the delightful spaces, the living room stands as her favorite. Its 120-year history is evident in the plaster walls, presenting a unique challenge—”we couldn’t simply wallpaper” as one might expect. Instead, a decorative painter was brought in to create a stunning interpretation of Schumacher’s iconic patterns which now gracefully dance across the walls, adorned in Swiss Coffee, a warm white by Benjamin Moore. This clever choice not only enhances the room’s luminosity but also complements a playful passion for pink. By keeping the walls a clean white and layering fabrics, art, and décor, it infused charm and vibrancy into every corner.
Every old home carries its own set of challenges, and this gem was no exception. The plaster walls posed difficulties, but rather than letting that deter Victoria, she saw it as an opportunity to push the creative boundaries. As previously mentioned, enlisting the skill of a decorative painter proved to be the perfect solution, resulting in two truly distinctive spaces: the living and dining rooms. These murals resonate with the character of the cottage while also reflecting the personalities of the homeowners, providing a harmonious connection to the location’s enchanting ambiance. Another challenge awaited with the dark wood paneling in the hallway and stairwell; priming revealed gaps intertwined with its history, yet with patience and persistence, they were able to transform it into a radiant white that breathes new life into this cottage.
Art by a talented Canadian artist injects energy into the space and pairs beautifully with the rich hues of the custom bench seat and pillows, providing just the right pop against the backdrop of Benjamin Moore’s Swiss Coffee.
In the pursuit of functionality for this summer home, designed to accommodate a bustling family of five with three energetic young children, a complete overhaul of both bathrooms became essential. Stripping them down to the studs to address uneven floors and drainage issues. The result is nothing short of breathtaking— a stunning rebirth, featuring jellyfish wallpaper, a custom vanity painted in Benjamin Moore’s Glass Slipper to match the trim, a crisp Oxford White for the ceiling colour and timeless marble flooring.
The bedrooms exemplify the beautiful interplay of colour within a neutral palette. The rooms are colour-drenched in Benjamin Moore’s Simply White. Textures play a pivotal role, brought to life through carefully chosen rugs, elegant window treatments, and charming bedside lamps that invite warmth and comfort. The use of pre-existing antiques is a fun nod to the traditionalism and history of the home. Here, colour bursts forth not from the walls but through thoughtfully selected textiles —reminding us that even the most tranquil spaces can embrace a vibrant spirit.
As summer approaches and gentle breezes carry the scent of blooming flowers, we encourage you to find inspiration in Peninsula Paradise. Let it be a reminder to infuse your own spaces with love, color, and personal touches, regardless of their history. Whether you’re working with a humble cottage, a bustling city apartment, or a sprawling family home, remember that true design stems from heartfelt intention and the desire to create a sanctuary that reflects who you are. Here’s to Peninsula Paradise—where history meets modernity, and every visit promises warmth, inspiration, and a story of its own!
Leave a Reply