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.
“Oke took them to see other homes we had built and also interviewed them in their own home before we drew new plans. On the exterior, the Keller’s had hoped to incorporate stone and stucco to give the home the appearance of permanency. Oke suggested a front porch, as well, which the couple hadn’t considered.
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It wasn’t too long ago when in-ground pools were considered luxury features to a home. Today, they’re almost as passé as central air. Indoor pools are feasible options and can be built into existing homes. Larry and Louise wanted a pool for exercize and wanted it year round, Oke Woodsmith help design and build the addition to their existing home.
A thoughtful renovation honours the integrity of this 115-year-old home. It may not have made financial sense, but undertaking an historically sympathetic renovation to a century home was just common sense for a Goderich-area couple.
