House Tours
A 19th-Century Ontario Farmhouse Gets A Charming Facelift
Photo courtesy Nat Caron
House Tours
A 19th-Century Ontario Farmhouse Gets A Charming Facelift
With its wraparound porch, small apple orchard, and farmhouse character, it’s hard to believe that this property was once meant to serve as the homeowners' second abode.
“They now spend more time here than not, which makes me truly happy,” says Lejla Eden, founder and principal designer of Eden House Co.
It’s easy to see why. The charming farmhouse in Singhampton, Ont., sits on an 80-acre property featuring a barn that houses a home gym, a pottery kiln studio, a large outdoor space for summer dinner parties, and even a smattering of tractors.
Built in 1882, the classic red-brick also had all the character the homeowners could want: hardwood floors, wainscoting, fireplaces, and an ornate staircase. Preserving these original elements was a must.
“At the same time, they wanted a home that feels warm and welcoming, reflects their personality—including their love of pattern, colour, and texture—and seamlessly incorporates modern comforts,” says Eden.
Photo courtesy Nat Caron
Originally dark and closed off, the colourful kitchen was lacking in the natural light department. Eden added a 10-foot window above the kitchen sink that transformed it into a focal point that floods the space with sunlight.
A new kitchen island features custom cabinetry, natural stone, and warm wood tones evocative of a traditional farmhouse.
Photo courtesy Nat Caron
Step through a brand-new archway that connects the kitchen to the living room. The space features a fully integrated coffee and bar area, perfect for entertaining.
“Behind sleek, wall-coloured cabinetry are hidden small appliances, a mini fridge, wine fridge, dishwasher, sink, and ice maker—all painted to match the walls for a seamless look,” says Eden.
The original fireplace still stands, and the cozy conversation area is adjoined by a warm breakfast nook.
Photo courtesy Nat Caron
To better suit the homeowners’ entertaining needs, Eden converted the former sitting room into a dining area. “Part of the original farmhouse, the dining room presented challenges for new lighting, leading us to choose a chandelier with multiple bulbs to provide ample illumination,” says Eden.
A 12-person custom dining table is the focus of the space, which is wrapped in a rich green William Morris wallpaper. Eden had the original wainscoting and fireplace painted in complementary hues, and removed the carpeting to reveal beautiful pine plank flooring that was refinished.
Photo courtesy Nat Caron
The homeowners often host out-of-town guests, so fixing up a functional layout was a priority.
“As part of the redesign, we turned a small bedroom into a custom dressing room and reconfigured the original 32-foot-long bedroom into two bedrooms, the principal and a guest bedroom,” says Eden.
The principal flows through the dressing room into the ensuite, creating a mini self-contained suite for the homeowners. “This layout provides everyone with privacy,” says Eden.
Photo courtesy Nat Caron
The ensuite is a delightful marriage of new and old. A preserved clawfoot tub sits atop charming checkerboard tiles. Nickel fixtures nod to a vintage style, while the added shower incorporates contemporary marble tile.
A sheer café curtain in the window incorporates a hint of old-world charm.
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