Urban Exodus: Embracing the Serenity of Rural Life in Canada’s Artistic Haven

The Move: From downtown Toronto to an artist’s escape in rural Newfoundland

Laura Dawe’s Journey to Homeownership

Laura Dawe, a 40-year-old artist, recently made an extraordinary move from downtown Toronto to the serene countryside of rural Newfoundland. After years of struggling with the skyrocketing housing prices in Toronto, Dawe found her dream home—a little yellow house—in the picturesque village of Pouch Cove. This move not only fulfilled Dawe’s dream of owning a property but also allowed her to embrace a slower pace of life and pursue her passion for painting.

From Parkdale to Pouch Cove

Back in 2011, Dawe moved into a modest two-bedroom apartment in Toronto’s bustling Parkdale neighborhood. The rent was a financial burden, but she managed to make it work by splitting the cost with her then-partner and a roommate. Over time, as the housing market in Toronto boomed, Dawe witnessed her apartment transform from a modest dwelling into an affordable hidden gem.

In 2019, Dawe secured a part-time job teaching drawing and painting, providing her with a steady income that allowed her to continue renting the apartment even after her roommates moved out. She converted the second bedroom into a studio and started teaching still-life classes. Despite these positive changes, Dawe realized that owning property in Toronto might remain a distant dream.

A Surprising Discovery in Pouch Cove

In November 2021, Dawe embarked on an artist’s residency in Pouch Cove, Newfoundland. The village held sentimental value for her, as her father’s side of the family hailed from a nearby village. Upon arriving in Pouch Cove, Dawe immediately felt a sense of familiarity and homecoming. The accents, the community spirit, and even the shared last names resonated with her deeply.

During her residency, Dawe attended a dinner party where the conversation shifted to a little yellow house for sale next door. Intrigued by the description, she looked up the list price, and much to her surprise, it was an affordable $130,000. The house embodied everything she had ever wanted—a cozy, cottagecore dream with antique accents, lace curtains, and a touch of nostalgia.

Dawe wasted no time contacting the realtor and arranging a showing for herself and her boyfriend. As she stepped inside the house, she was amazed at how closely the previous owners’ tastes aligned with her own. The furniture, which was included in the sale, was exactly to her liking. She felt an instant connection and knew that this was her chance to own a home.

A Home with Quirks and Charm

While the little yellow house captured Dawe’s heart, it was not without its quirks. The bathroom lacked a shower, featuring only an ancient tub. The low seven-foot ceilings, slanted floors, and DIY wiring added to its idiosyncrasies. However, despite these imperfections, the house was in impeccable condition and, most importantly, extremely affordable.

Dawe’s infatuation with the house grew stronger each day. She fantasized about the possibilities the yard held if it were her property. However, when other prospective buyers started visiting the house, she felt a sense of panic. The thought of losing this opportunity was devastating to her. She immediately arranged another tour with the realtor, only to learn that someone had submitted an offer already. Determined to secure the house, Dawe frantically researched how to do a home inspection and spent one final tour carefully examining every detail.

With her offer of $115,000, Dawe demonstrated her commitment to becoming the owner of the little yellow house. The owners, who were in their 80s and unfamiliar with email, accepted her offer because, in their words, it contained “less bullshit.” Dawe made a down payment of $6,000, leaving her with enough savings to renovate the bathroom. Her monthly mortgage payment was set at a remarkably low $115.

A Homecoming and a Sense of Safety

After completing the purchase, Dawe returned to Toronto temporarily before settling into her new home in Pouch Cove the following February. Despite concerns about the isolation and winter weather, Dawe immediately felt a sense of peace and belonging upon her return.

Notably, her new home welcomed her with a housewarming gift—a truckload of insulation for the basement. This thoughtful gesture from James Baird, the coordinator of her artist’s residency, reinforced Dawe’s belief that the house was keeping her safe. Even when a windstorm blew the storm door clean off, she remained calm and felt a deep sense of security.

Renovation and Reflection

Before diving into renovations, Dawe took the time to document the remnants of the previous owners. She spent a week photographing items left behind, creating a nostalgic museum-like experience. This period of reflection allowed her to understand the history of the house and its former inhabitants.

With the help of a handyman and her father, Dawe began renovating her new home. A showerhead was installed in the bathroom, a strategic hole was cut in the kitchen wall for a washing machine, and insulation was added to the basement. Dawe tackled many tasks herself, including ripping up carpets and uplifting old wallpaper. She discovered original tile work in the primary bedroom and sought advice from her Instagram followers on how to repaint it.

Throughout the process, Dawe realized that some of the original tiles contained asbestos. Heeding a friend’s warning, she decided to leave them untouched. Undeterred, Dawe shifted her focus to the kitchen, where she transformed the original canvas flooring with a floral rug from Etsy and adorned the space with hand-painted dandelions.

A Life of Serenity and Inspiration

Today, Dawe continues to teach in Toronto but makes regular trips to her new home in Pouch Cove. She relishes the slower pace of life and the opportunity to immerse herself in nature. Free from the social obligations of Toronto, she can devote more time to her painting.

Dawe’s artistic spirit is evident throughout her home. She painted a stunning mural of Pouch Cove on her bathroom wall, turning it into a personal sanctuary. In one of the bedrooms, she is building a museum of found objects from the previous owners. These objects are not only a source of inspiration for Dawe but also represent a connection to the house’s history.

Living in Pouch Cove has exposed Dawe to the vast array of colors the ocean can display in a single day—a constant source of inspiration for her artistic endeavors. She has truly embraced the tranquility and serenity of rural Newfoundland, finding solace and creativity in the breathtaking landscape that surrounds her.

Editorial: Finding Home in Unexpected Places

Laura Dawe’s story is a testament to the transformative power of embracing change and seeking solace in unexpected places. Her journey from a cramped apartment in Toronto to a cozy haven in rural Newfoundland highlights the allure of a slower pace of life and the allure of homeownership.

In a housing market plagued by skyrocketing prices and market volatility, many individuals and families find themselves unable to fulfill their dream of owning a home. The story of Laura Dawe reminds us that there are hidden gems and affordable properties in unexpected corners of the country. It encourages us to look beyond the confines of city life and explore the vast landscapes and tight-knit communities that Canada has to offer.

Furthermore, Dawe’s deep connection to her new home and the sense of belonging she feels in Pouch Cove serves as a reminder that home is not just a physical place but also a state of mind. As Dawe discovered, true fulfillment and tranquility can be found in a place that resonates with our hearts and souls.

This story also underscores the importance of preserving the history and character of older homes. While Dawe encountered quirks and imperfections in her little yellow house, she embraced them as part of its charm. She carefully considered the legacy of the previous owners and preserved elements of their lives, creating a unique blend of past and present within her home.

Advice: Discovering Your Own Artist’s Escape

If you find yourself yearning for a change of scenery and a respite from the chaos of city life, there are steps you can take to explore the possibility of finding your own artist’s escape:

1. Research Hidden Gems

Do your research and explore lesser-known communities and regions across Canada. Look for areas with affordable housing options and a burgeoning arts scene. Consider the unique landscapes and natural beauty that might inspire your creativity.

2. Connect with Artists’ Residencies

Artists’ residencies provide opportunities to immerse yourself in a new environment and connect with like-minded individuals. Research and apply to residencies in areas that align with your artistic vision and personal growth goals.

3. Embrace Community and Local Culture

When visiting potential artist’s escapes, immerse yourself in the local community. Visit local galleries, attend events, and engage with residents to gain insight into the community’s cultural fabric. Building connections with the locals can help create a sense of belonging.

4. Consider Renovations and Preservation

If you find a property with character and history, consider renovations that preserve its unique charm. Engage with local tradespeople and artisans to ensure your updates align with the property’s heritage. Embrace the opportunity to uncover hidden gems, such as original tilework or architectural features, that can enhance your living space.

5. Embrace the Slower Pace of Life

Transitioning from city life to a rural artist’s escape often means adjusting to a slower pace of life. Embrace this change and use it as an opportunity to focus on your art, connect with nature, and cultivate a sense of tranquility.

In summary, Laura Dawe’s journey from downtown Toronto to her artist’s escape in rural Newfoundland serves as an inspiration to those seeking a change of scenery and a chance to pursue their passion. By exploring hidden gems, embracing community, preserving history, and embracing a slower pace of life, individuals can find their own unique artist’s escape, where creativity thrives and a sense of home is truly found.