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Artist’s Haven in Lakeside Community - Port of Newcastle, ON

Stepping from the covered wraparound porch into the spacious foyer of 1 Port of Newcastle Drive feels a bit like entering into a magazine. The many tasteful upgrades, such as nine foot ceilings, gleaming hardwood floors, and classic wainscoting throughout, testify to its former life as the builder’s show home.

The home’s loveliness only reached new heights under the ownership of Marc and Barbara Gagnon, an award-winning artist and talented interior decorator, respectively. Marc is a full-time artist whose work as a studio and en plein painter has drawn several awards. He specializes in acrylics and watercolours, and more of his work can be viewed on his website: Marc L. Gagnon Fine Art. Barbara, while now retired, was the owner and chief design consultant of Clewley Gagnon Interior Design. Her distinctly classic, comfortable, and slightly eclectic style is evidenced throughout the home, and the harmony between both of their artistic sensibilities should make it no surprise that the property was also featured in the 2015 Summer/Fall edition of Our Homes Magazine.

The home’s classic, neutral colour scheme and contemporary light fixtures allow the colourful art pieces adorning the walls to take centre stage - adding warmth, interest, and personality to the home. The generously-sized windows provide an abundance of natural light, and views of the sparkling lakefront, visible throughout much of the home, offer inspiration for the many creative works that have been conceived within these walls. The gallery, formerly a garage, showcases many of these fine works.

There is no shortage of style and intrigue throughout the rest of the home. The open concept kitchen is elegantly upgraded with ceramic tile flooring and backsplash, a central island, granite counters (a feature purchased from and installed by the local Brandom Kitchens and Bath), as well as a breakfast bar and a walkout to the stone deck. The main floor allows for easy entertaining with plenty of room to spread out and take in the beautiful outdoor views. The formal dining or lounge area, living room with a vaulted ceiling, and family room with its gas fireplace provide a myriad of entertaining options.

The spacious upper level allows for family members to have their own space. The master bedroom features a four-piece ensuite bath, including a corner soaker tub and separate shower. The second bedroom includes a walk-in closet, and the third and fourth bedrooms complete the space. An unfinished basement also makes for a wealth of possibilities and storage options.

There is plenty of natural beauty and privacy in this highly-sought area: the green boulevard across from the property is bordered by two rows of small, blooming pink cherry trees. The subdivision itself is also bordered by nearly 187 acres of forest in the Wilmont Creek area and in Graham’s Creek, with its natural stream that flows out by the lake. Steelhead and salmon both draw plenty of fisherman as well: “There are always people fishing down at the stream where it comes out by the lake,” comments Marc. The property itself features lush perennial gardens which flourish in the warmer months and add low-maintenance curb appeal. The relaxing oasis in the backyard features the work of Green Wood Interlock and several plants from Bloom Field Gardens. The stone patio seamlessly integrates and anchors the home in its natural surroundings.

The convenient location of Newcastle is a large draw for many metropolitan workers. The terminus of the 407 at Highway 135/115, which is expected to be completed in 2019, will provide a convenient commute to the laid-back lakefront community. The home is also in comfortable proximity to the active Port of Newcastle Marina, a popular gathering place for locals. Beyond operating as a full-service marina, it also hosts a number of local events and features The Brig, a popular local pub. A noteworthy perk for potential buyers - the property purchase also includes the option for a transferable Gold membership to the Admiral’s Walk Club.

“Newcastle is a village but has great small town charm,” says Marc. “There are two pubs, two large grocery stores, the historic Massey Factory, and community centre in town.” The couple’s work is also known throughout the community: Marc was commissioned at the latest Newcastles of the World conference, an annual gathering of “Newcastle” representatives representing twelve countries. The original painting now hangs in Clarington’s city hall.

Now that this beautiful home is back on the market, it remains to be seen: who will be the next person to take the canvas of this beautiful property and make it into something special of their own?

To take a closer look, visit the full listing here.