When homeowners begin dreaming about a renovation, they’re often thinking about more than finishes, fixtures, and floor plans. They’re thinking about how they want to live. A renovation is an opportunity to create a home that better fits their lifestyle today and for years to come.
That vision is exactly what inspired Lakeside Living, the stunning St. Catharines renovation by RenoMark renovator Windrush Hill Construction, winner of the 2026 CHBA National Award for Housing Excellence for Best Whole Home Renovation ($500,001 to $800,000).
As we celebrate Renovation Month, this project is a perfect reminder of what can happen when homeowners partner with experienced, professional renovators who are committed to quality craftsmanship and industry standards.
The homeowners had one clear goal: transform their existing three-bedroom house into a comfortable, modern retirement home that would support their lifestyle for years to come. Rather than moving, they chose to reimagine the home they already loved and its incredible location overlooking Lake Ontario.
What makes this renovation so remarkable is that it didn’t simply update finishes. It completely changed the way the home functions.
The original layout felt awkward and disconnected. Windrush Hill Construction carefully removed walls, reallocated space, and created an open-concept one-bedroom design tailored to the homeowners’ needs. A former bedroom was transformed into a sophisticated den and cocktail lounge complete with a hidden wet bar, while another became part of an oversized walk-in closet connected to the primary suite.
These thoughtful changes demonstrate something many homeowners discover during a renovation journey: sometimes the best solution isn’t adding more square footage. It’s making better use of the space you already have.
One of the most inspiring aspects of Lakeside Living is how the renovation embraces the property’s unique characteristics. The home’s pie-shaped lot could have been viewed as a challenge, but the team turned it into an opportunity. Instead of forcing conventional design principles onto the space, they leaned into the home’s unusual angles to maximize views of Lake Ontario and strengthen the connection between indoors and outdoors. A beautifully designed covered patio mirrors the home’s footprint while creating a seamless transition to the waterfront landscape.
Inside, the design strikes a careful balance between contemporary style and warmth. Bold black-framed windows, cabinetry, and millwork add dramatic contrast, while rich walnut finishes and white oak flooring create a welcoming atmosphere. Clean white walls provide the perfect backdrop for the homeowners’ art collection, resulting in a home that feels both refined and deeply personal.
Of course, award-winning renovations rarely come without challenges.
This project required the team to overcome strong waterfront winds during construction, correct uneven subfloors, and address poor workmanship from previous renovations. Through careful engineering, planning, and expert craftsmanship, these obstacles were successfully resolved while preserving the design vision and ensuring the home met modern performance standards.
For homeowners considering a renovation, this part of the story is especially important. Behind every beautiful finished space are countless decisions that impact the safety, durability, and long-term value of a home. Working with a qualified professional means having someone who can identify hidden issues, solve problems effectively, and deliver results that stand the test of time.
RenoMark renovators commit to a professional Code of Conduct, provide clear contracts, maintain the appropriate licensing and insurance requirements, and stand behind their work. When homeowners choose a RenoMark member, they’re choosing a renovator committed to professionalism, accountability, and high industry standards.
The transformation of Lakeside Living is more than an award-winning renovation. It’s a story about creating a forever home that reflects the homeowners’ lifestyle, priorities, and future plans. It shows what’s possible when thoughtful design is paired with exceptional craftsmanship.
If you’re planning a renovation, whether it’s a whole-home transformation or a smaller project, take the first step by hiring a RenoMark member. Like the homeowners behind Lakeside Living, you’ll gain a trusted partner who can help turn your vision into a home that’s built for the way you want to live.
