The Creative Salon

A House Opened

On May 3, The Carswell House opened its doors for the very first time.

Not as a residence, but as a place of gathering, observation, and creation.

Our inaugural Creative Salon welcomed photographers, artists, and visual storytellers from across Ontario for a day intended to experience the home as it is. To wander. To observe. To create. To connect.

What unfolded became something far greater than we imagined.

Throughout the day, artists moved from room to room interpreting the house through entirely different lenses. Some paused at the softened light pouring through historic windows. Others were drawn to textures, patina, architectural details, or the quiet rhythm of the home itself. Conversations formed naturally between strangers. Ideas were exchanged. New relationships began.

Most exciting of all, the Salon marked not only the official opening of The Carswell House, but the beginning of its next chapter.

Following the event, we were deeply honoured to receive an extraordinary response and secure a number of upcoming bookings across editorial work, portraiture, family photography, and creative productions. More importantly, we welcomed a remarkable community of artists and formed relationships that we hope will continue to grow for years to come.

One of the defining elements of the day was the floral installation created by Marley Lewington of Baroque Blooms.

Rooted in her philosophy of floral storytelling and inspired by the richness, romance, and ornamentation of the baroque, Marley approached the home with extraordinary sensitivity.

As she shared:

“Designing for the historic Carswell House was the perfect place to express my floral storytelling, pairing the home’s architectural elegance with soft, seasonal blooms that feel deeply connected to history.”

Her installations felt entirely at home within the walls of the estate and became part of the visual language of the day.

As guests wandered the house, they left us with reflections that we will carry with us for a very long time.

Morgan Marie shared:

“Stepping into the Carswell House feels like crossing into a different time.
It’s a space layered with history, charm, and creative inspiration.
If you’ve ever felt like you were born in the wrong era, you’ll feel at home here.”

Candace Plotz reflected:

“What makes The Carswell House so memorable is the way it balances history, warmth, and atmosphere so effortlessly. The home feels deeply storied yet incredibly welcoming, with each room offering its own sense of character and quiet beauty. It’s a remarkable setting for photography and creative work. Every corner feels naturally cinematic, layered, and inspiring.”

Rock and Soul Photography shared:

“It was a lovely experience, from start to finish I was in awe from breathtaking beauty, attention to detail, and total atmosphere, it was like stepping into a dream. I loved learning the history, highlighting how truly special the Carswell House is. The hosts were so lovely, and very generous to welcome us into their home. It was an honour to be invited and I hope to be back again someday.”

BMJ Photography reflected:

“Being surrounded by so many artists under one extravagant roof was such a special experience.”

“It was beautiful to witness how each person’s creative eye was drawn to something different, the light, the history, the textures, the tiny details, all appreciated in completely unique ways.”

“The hosts went above and beyond to create an experience that felt thoughtful in every sense, from the florals and live pianist to the snacks and even the clothing hanging on the clothesline outside. Every detail felt so intentional.”

“As creatives, we spend so much of our lives creating for others, so having a day where we could simply create for ourselves, purely out of inspiration felt incredibly fulfilling and deeply needed.”

“A truly beautiful space that I would absolutely recommend experiencing if given the opportunity.”

Kahlan Crampton shared:

“The Carswell House is full of magic, inside and out. Linda and David are so sweet and welcoming. Their home would make for the perfect backdrop to any editorial.”

Hannah Bacon wrote:

“Walking up to The Carswell House truly felt like stepping in a storybook. The dramatic vintage windows pouring in soft, moody light creates such a cinematic feel and really sets the stage for the space. The whole house feels so full of character with such interesting architecture and design. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to slow down, wander, and create. I left feeling creatively invigorated and already dreaming up everything I’d love to photograph here.”

Emily Crites reflected:

“Attending the Creative Salon at The Carswell House felt like stepping back in time in the best possible way. From the original wallpaper patterns to the shadows cast by the window panes and the beautifully worn patina on each doorknob, every detail carried a sense of history and intention. It’s this level of care, preservation, and respect for heritage that elevates creative gatherings beyond inspiration alone, shaping the way artists see, create, and tell stories with greater depth and meaning.”

Virginia Luella shared:

“I immediately felt at home at Carswell House. The estate is at once grand and intimate, with heritage and history that is felt when wandering the halls. David and Linda have lovingly maintained the estate and were incredibly welcoming on our visit, inviting us to appreciate their home as though it were our own. It’s rare to find living history like this with such good bones, and I look forward to returning.”

Inna Yasinska reflected:

“The Carswell House is such an architectural gem. Every corner is so thoughtfully curated and designed while preserving the historic charm of the property. It feels like stepping back in time in the best way.”

Again and again, guests spoke of atmosphere, history, beauty, and inspiration.

To every artist who attended, photographed, explored, created, and entrusted us with this first opening, thank you.

This house has stood for generations.

On May 3, it became a house filled with artists once again.

To explore photographs from the day and see the many perspectives captured throughout the Salon, we invite you to visit our Gallery.