Clare Sullivan, a prominent DIY enthusiast known for her “Budget Luxury” approach, is currently immersed in an ambitious renovation project. Situated on her parents’ picturesque property in Maine, Sullivan is restoring a nearly 200-year-old fish house into a contemporary rental space. The historic building, a relic from the local fishing industry, presents a unique combination of challenges and opportunities for the creator with over one million online followers.
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Sullivan’s undertaking reflects her commitment to honouring the past while integrating modern designs. She aims to preserve as many original features of the fish house as possible, infusing it with creativity and practicality. Drawing on a wealth of experience from her various DIY projects, which include colourful murals and unique furniture renovations, Sullivan has made it her mission to breathe new life into this historic structure.
The fish house restoration is particularly significant to Sullivan, who spent her childhood near a similar fish house. These quaint waterfront structures were once commonplace in Maine, but due to the increasing severity of storms, many have been lost over the years. “We really lucked out,” she remarks, referring to her parents’ property, which allows for the fish house to be legally designated as a residential space. This has enabled her to commence her project, which she has methodically worked through over the past two and a half years.
A primary focus for Sullivan has been to preserve the building’s historic character. “If we simply replaced everything with new materials, it wouldn’t feel right,” she explains. Much of the wood used in her renovation comes from either the original structure or reclaimed sources found at auctions and estate sales. Her commitment to authenticity is a driving force behind the project, as she highlights the difficulty of finding materials like heart pine, traditionally favoured in colonial architecture.
As the renovation progressed, Sullivan faced several structural challenges, particularly due to the fish house’s proximity to the water. Flooding posed a real risk, necessitating adjustments such as raising kitchen cabinets to mitigate potential damage. Yet, Sullivan sees these hurdles not just as obstacles but also as opportunities for innovative solutions that enhance the character of the space. For instance, the contractor on her project designed a unique upstairs bathroom with a barrel-shaped ceiling—a feature that added complexity but also charm.
Sullivan’s flair for design is evident in the practical yet stylish solutions she has implemented. She has opted for multipurpose furnishings, such as benches near the dining area that double as storage for life jackets and cushions, thus maximising every inch of the fish house. A custom-built pantry with a hidden compartment further exemplifies her creativity and commitment to efficient design in a small space.
The aesthetic of the restoration leans heavily into nautical themes, with many decorative elements sourced from Maine’s bustling flea markets, including the renowned Arundel Flea. “I want everything to feel quirky and maritime,” Sullivan states, passionate about incorporating elements true to the fish house’s history. Items like old lobster claws collected by her father have been repurposed into wall art, adding a unique touch that speaks to the site’s legacy.
Looking ahead, Sullivan envisions the finished fish house as a rental property, aimed at sharing this piece of history with visitors. “My parents have always rented out parts of their property, and now that they’re empty nesters, they’re keen to continue that tradition,” she notes. The goal is to create an inviting Airbnb that captures the essence of Maine’s coastal charm while allowing her family to enjoy the space during the summer.
As her renovation project nears completion, Sullivan remains focused on the delicate balance between modern comfort and historical preservation. She emphasises her intention to create a space that inspires and delights visitors while reflecting its rich past. “It would truly break my heart if I couldn’t enjoy it myself,” she admits, with aspirations of spending special moments at the fish house amidst the beauty of Maine’s landscape.