The Lookout

Located on an elevated two acre parcel on Nova Scotia's South Shore, The Lookout is a modest, modern barn home with expansive views of the ocean and LaHave Islands.
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The Lookout was just a shell; the start of a retirement dream home the previous owner did not see completed. Through phone calls and Zoom, we closed on a home we hadn't stepped foot in and took-on the previous owner's dream (complete with his hand-drawn sketches and inspiration photos).

The entire design and build was done as a virtual effort between myself in Toronto and my mother, who lives in Nova Scotia. Travel restrictions meant I wouldn't see the home until it was completely finished in the spring of 2021. Facetime conversations at hardware stores to pick-out fixtures, phone calls with contractors and my 71 year old mother acting as full-time site supervisor, moving the project along. A wonderful team project for us, despite being so far away from each other.

Just under 1,000 square feet, The Lookout is thoughtfully designed to maximize the incredible views of the ocean. Working within the parameters set-out by the previous owner, we completely rearranged the interior layout of the home, creating two guest "wings", each with their own bed and bath. The main gathering space is minimal and serene. A 10 foot picture window provides incredible views into the forest nearby. This is a place to unwind.

The kitchen is large and traditional, despite the small home. It was designed, built and installed by a local craftsperson who delivered on our special request: a custom cupboard for the Miele laundry. White oak, engineered hardwood was installed throughout with shaker-style doors in a creamy white, offsetting the modern, black hardware. The gas Valor fireplace is designed to heat the entire home with it's HeatShift system, operating during power outages, which Nova Scotia is known for.

The home is now a seasonal getaway for us and can be booked on Airbnb year-round.

Photographer: Sawyer Hannay