The Port Hope, Ont. home of Carl Swanston and Sarah Cashman, an 1858 Regency Villa style house they will slowly restore.James Ireland
The marble fireplace mantle. The new owners have conferred with Port Hope heritage officials about how best to preserve such details.James Ireland
The view from the widow's walk takes in neighbouring heritage homes and the Ganaraska River shoreline.James Ireland
The living room. The large house will require a great deal of renovation, a task that at first daunted the buyers. 'The first time we saw [the house] we completely dismissed it. It was so overwhelming,' says Mr. Swanston.James Ireland
The basement is atests to the home's age, showing stome foundation walls and brick-paved floor.James Ireland
The coach house reminded Ms. Cashman of the homes she saw when growing up in England.James Ireland
The carved railing in the home, built originally for lumber dealer Robert Charles Smith.James Ireland
A ceiling medallion. Initial demolition has also exposed elaborate plaster moulding underneath acoustic ceiling tiles installed by previous owners.James Ireland
Carl Swanston, Neala Swanston, 4, and Sarah Cashman in their Toronto home.JENNIFER ROBERTS/The Globe and Mail