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The Carriage House |
Escape to Oceanside Serenity |
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Searching for an escape from the chaos of
daily life? Look no further than Antigonish,
Nova Scotia and The Carriage House. Step
back into a simpler time, when homes were
built by hand with natural materials and
old-fashioned construction – you know, the
kind made to last. Lovingly designed and
hand-built by the owner just a few years
ago, The Carriage House has the integrity,
purity and simplicity of a home from
yesteryear. It’s just what it sounds like –
a second-story dwelling situated above a
ground-floor space that could, but doesn’t,
shelter a stable. Perched against the
backdrop of forest and sky, it blends
effortlessly into the pristine rural
landscape. Fully self-contained and private,
it’s the perfect retreat for those seeking a
slice of serenity. |
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Maximum Nature
A large deck wraps around the back and side
of the house. While the mature trees during
high summer allow only dappled glimpses of
the water, it’s only a one-minute walk down
to the harbour where awaits a beautiful,
placid bay. On the front a small deck is
perfect for breakfasting a deux and offers a
panoramic view of the surrounding
countryside.
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Layout
The main floor is 1500 square feet of
open-concept living ringed around the
kitchen, the traditional focus of homes in
Nova Scotia. I love to cook and I think it
shows. The only “wall” in the kitchen is a
15-foot bank of windows that peer out over
ash and spruce trees to the bay, a
spectacular panorama to contemplate while
whipping up Sunday-morning pancakes. Solid
maple countertops – 35 feet of them
including one just for baking – snake around
the room. Quality appliances include a Jenn-Air
downdraft stove, built-in full refrigerator
and full freezer, dishwasher and trash
compactor. There is also a 50,000BTU gas
barbeque for easy grilling. You’re sure to
find any equipment you require during your
stay. I’ve got all the basics, plus many
extras, including a pasta maker and a
functioning antique Italian cappuccino
machine. When you’ve finished preparing your
gastronomical feast, eat in the kitchen or
at the table in the window-flanked dining
room, which seats 8 to 10 comfortably (or up
to 16 when combined with the kitchen table.)
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House
Style
Inside, up to four can sleep in
style (six at a real stretch), but the house
is especially suited to honeymooners (or
those just pretending) and small families
(couples with one or two kids.) The main
level measures 600 square feet and comprises
the master bedroom, kitchen, dining room,
living room, bathroom and laundry niche.
Open-concept spaces flow into each other
airily. The main ceiling slopes to a 12-ft
height and is finished in pine. Skylights
and large windows in every room ensure the
space is flooded with sun all day. Wide
plank floors are a delight to walk on. Most
of the furniture is antique, carefully
chosen by the owner from local antique
dealers. |
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The
Inner Spaces
Although the entire cottage exudes
warmth, the master bedroom is particularly
romantic and cozy. Some days you may not
want to leave it. The pine ceiling slopes
over the queen-size bed, specially fitted
with a heavenly down padding for the sleep
of your life. Aches, pains and all thought
of the outside world will recede as you sink
into blissful comfort. A hand-made duvet
tops it off. A cushioned “whatever” nook has
a large window that overlooks a grove of ash
trees. The nook is perfect for napping,
reading, playing a game of Scrabble or for
doing “whatever.” |
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Entertaining &
Relaxing
Pine cabinets and pullout drawers in
the kitchen hold everything you might need
during your stay. In this funky space with
angled pine ceilings and a skylight, there
is also a refrigerator, a stove, a
microwave, a coffee maker and all other
basic kitchen amenities. A door leads to the
deck for alfresco cooking (gas grill
provided) and dining (patio furniture too).
On cool evenings, eat in the dining room
under the glow of the moon and stars in the
night sky, visible through the skylight
directly overhead. A softly radiating
hanging light (actually a ship’s hanging
lamp) and an oil lamp in the middle of the
table complete the magic.
The living room has several large windows
and, of course, a skylight. Two can sleep on
the futon sofa bed. Otherwise, it’s a great
place to relax with the family and watch
movies, listen to music or just hang out.
Provided are Satellite TV, DVD, VCR, stereo
and a selection of films and games. |
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Bathrooms
The bathroom is a charming room
painted yellow and tiled Provencal blue.
Succumb to a soak in the Jacuzzi tub after a
day of swimming, hiking, exploring or
hard-core relaxing. With such extras as
terrycloth bathrobes and a complimentary
basket of bath goodies, it’ll be hard to
resist. There is also a laundry niche on the
main level for your convenience. |
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Bedrooms
Upstairs is “The Cupola”, a
loft-style sleeping area with two single
beds and a dresser. Children love to monkey
up the ladder to the top. Wrap-around
windows welcome the sun and cast the eye
over where a new vineyard is planned.
Surprised? Just down the road is another
boutique vintner whose grapes have won
prestigious medals in international
competitions. It’s just one of many regional
secrets waiting to be discovered. |
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Click Here To See A
Full Comparison of All Major House Features |
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 Welcome to my home. Awaiting
you at check-in is a basket of wine and
cheese and a friendly smile, Nova Scotia
style. Be my guest and be prepared for an
unforgettable stay! |
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