Presents
Burden's Point - For Sale
The Getaway at
Burden’s Point
Salvage, NL
1.14 acres of waterfront solitude. Featuring vernacular Newfoundland architecture at its best
A most unique personal retreat for one or two families with the option of continuing to cater to the tourists on the Eastport Peninsula
Welcome to The Getaway at Burden’s Point, a magical retreat on the Eastport Peninsula of Salvage, Newfoundland. This property features two fully restored and spectacularly renovated heritage saltbox homes that punctuate this mystical coastal locale and serve as beautifully articulated architectural nod to its storied past.
A Beautifully Storied Past
Burden’s Point is one of the earliest settled areas of Salvage, which itself is one of the oldest communities settled by Europeans on the island of Newfoundland. Settlers from the south of England, as early as 1667, were attracted by the cod fish trade due to the excellent microclimate for drying salt fish and the proximity to the fishing grounds. Captain James Cook mentioned the passing of Salvage when he circumnavigated Newfoundland in 1775.
This ruggedly picturesque property was also known as the Pickersgill Premises, in honour of Peter and Lisa Rae Pickersgill who were faithful custodians of Burden House (c. 1912) and Dunn House (c. 1914) for many decades. Recently, in collaboration with Reflect Architecture, the residences have been reimagined and thoughtfully brought to life in a way that evokes the region’s architectural vernacular, while also accommodating for thoroughly modern living.
An Architectural Balancing Act
The two homes and studio are set on an iconic peninsula amid the naturally protected harbour, offering shelter from the North Atlantic. The three buildings have been meticulously refurbished, but with careful restraint exercised to ensure historic elements have been preserved and artistically rendered. Thoughtful detailing, material selection and colour choices gently reinterpret the space to suit discerning contemporary tastes and lifestyles. The result is an architectural balancing act that deftly navigates the needs of modern living, while paying homage to the site’s breathtaking panoramic vistas and the historic surrounding community, while preserving both houses’ longstanding presence on the landscape.
New elements have been introduced sparingly and with intention, with new white exterior siding and galvanized steel roofs serving as a durable response to the off-season harsh environment. Across both elevations, windows are traditionally scaled and spaced. The sole exception is a large window on the Burden House’s north facing elevation, which offers expansive views of the surrounding landscape and ocean
From afar, both residences, defined by simple rectangular volumes and gabled roofs, appear much like they would have in centuries past, albeit with some nuanced updates and improvements. Projected window boxes, for example, frame windows on both structures. While such detailing is not historic, it creates new visual interest via long shadows cast across exterior surfaces, loosely inspired by the work of Newfoundland born painter Christopher Pratt.
Contemporary Design, Inspired by Newfoundland Tradition
Lined primarily with white original shiplap, the interiors of both houses explore the common ground between crisp, contemporary design and the simplicity and honesty inherent to traditional Newfoundland homebuilding. The Burden House (which was electrified after over a century off-grid), reused interior framing and cladding wherever possible, while floors were patched and painted. The Dunn House required more extensive interior renovations, with the interior cladding being replaced entirely.
Plans were informed by the orientation and circulation of historic Newfoundland homes, although carefully adapted to meet contemporary lifestyles. Living, dining, and cooking spaces are located on ground levels. The Burden House contains a large kitchen and dining space, whereas the smaller Dunn House contains a TV and recreation area with a galley-style kitchen and dining space. Both kitchens are constructed of Baltic Birch plywood, and butcher block to reference the type of materials and fabrication methods available locally. Furniture was similarly selected for its ability to convey the simplicity and spareness inherent to life in traditional Newfoundland outport communities.
To realize the residence’s purpose as an escape from the elements, colour blocking emerged as an important tool for delineating spaces. It serves as a contemporary stand-in for the layers of wallpaper found in traditional Newfoundland homes. Bedside lamps and built-in platform beds are inspired by the berths of a ship.
This one-of-a-kind opportunity is perfect for anyone seeking peace and solitude but not in the absence of a sense of community. The town of Salvage with a population of just over 100 is a very short boat ride away, sheltered from the elements, across the harbour. However, residents may also opt to walk the 15 minutes into the core of the town. Local residents are available and willing to provide water transport if desired as an alternative to using personal watercraft for return trips.
The Location
WELCOME TO THE ROCK
The Eastport Peninsula in the central part
of Bonavista Bay extends from Terra Nova
National Park and follows an irregular
coastline along Newman Sound to the
south, around the community of Salvage,
Newfoundland. There are seven communities
on the peninsula with Eastport being the
largest with a population of approximately
550. The area features an expansive sandy
beach and is also home to the annual
Winterset in Summer Literary Festival.
wintersetinsummer.ca
GOLF
Twin Rivers: The 6,546-yard, Par 71, award winning course has hosted numerous Provincial and National competitions. This seaside course that criss-crosses two salmon rivers combines a challenging but fair layout with breathtaking views, making Twin Rivers a must play course for players of all skill levels and providing an unforgettable golf experience.
Eagle Creek Golf Course: This 2,593-yard, par 35 course offers a challenge to the seasoned golfer as well as serving as an alternative venue for those wanting a shorter program. Named after the bald eagles that are frequently seen over Clode Sound, this under the radar full 9-hole course is an added treat for golfers.
THEATRE
Come From Away: If you’re visiting during the season, consider making a trip to Gander, located about an hour away from Salvage. It’s more than just an airport - it’s the backdrop for the acclaimed musical “Come From Away.”
“Come From Away,” written by Irene Sankoff and David Hein, tells the heartwarming true story of how the people of Gander welcomed 7,000 stranded travelers after their planes were grounded due to the September 11th attacks. The musical captures the incredible generosity and kindness shown by the residents of Gander during a time of global crisis, making it a must-see for any visitor to the area.
HIKING & OUTDOORS
Damnable Trail: Hikers of all levels will find their perfect adventure on the Damnable Trail network, conveniently located right on the doorstep of Burden’s Point. Choose your own adventure from a variety of day hikes, each offering a unique experience in terms of difficulty, distance, and scenery. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing stroll or a challenging adventure, the Damnable Trail has the perfect path for you
Hansford Hiking Adventures: Experience the untamed beauty of Newfoundland’s Eastport Peninsula with Hansford Hiking Adventures. Local expert Karen Saunders offers both popular and custom-designed hikes, ensuring a perfect fit for your skill level and interests. As your regional tour guide, Karen can handle all the details of your trip, from booking hikes and excursions, to making restaurant reservations
Happy Adventure Inn: A haven for seafood lovers and adventurers alike, offering unforgettable boat and kayak tours on the scenic Newfoundland coast. Explore hidden coves, spot marine life, like whales and puffins, and discover the region’s unique history and landscapes. Whether you choose a relaxing inshore tour, an exciting offshore adventure, or a tranquil kayak excursion, Happy Adventure Inn has the perfect experience for you. Complete your day with their renowned fish and chips, dubbed the “best in the new world.”
The Getaway
Put simply, The Getaway at Burden’s Point is a magical setting that stirs the imagination and represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. If you wish to consider taking over custodianship or have any questions about this property, please call, text, or email Chris O’Dea at the coordinates below
The price consideration for both homes is $1,200,000.
For further information, please call Chris O’Dea at 709-785-6559 or chrisodea49@gmail.com
Enjoy the remaining photos
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