Building More Than a Hotel: The Riversea Story

The winter of 2022 kicked off an incredible adventure for Lorraine and Rob when they purchased the Riversea, a run down hotel in a stunning location. With six feet of snow covering the property, the true extent of their challenges remained hidden until the snow melted. As the opening date of May 24, 2022 drew near, Lorraine and Rob faced an enormous task: renovating 16 rooms and a restaurant in rural Newfoundland in only a month.

Our first picture after we got handed the keys. April 12, 2022.

The Dream and the Challenge

With excitement coursing through their veins, Lorraine and Rob quickly discovered that their initial naivety worked to their advantage. The daunting list of renovation tasks seemed overwhelming, yet they embraced the challenge with childlike enthusiasm. Diving into the project headfirst, they recruited a team of family and friends to lend support and help.

Friends and family showed up in numbers, bringing their skills and energy, along with a thrill that kept spirits high. Some participants included Amber who scrubbed every tile on the dance floor, Danny who moved every piece of furniture (up and down the stairs), Edna who painted every wall on the second level, Dave who repaired the Lounge floor, Tessa who plastered, sealed and painted, and Amy who did just about everything else.

One of the many dragons that were slayed during the renovation process.

Navigating the Unexpected

As the weeks rolled on, the reality of the project became stark. They faced significant hurdles like flooded pipes, sagging floors, and persistent winter weather, all compounded by a strict budget.

These unforeseen challenges tested Lorraine and Rob’s resolve. At times, they wondered if they could complete the project on time. However, their local community rallied around them, providing encouragement and innovative solutions. This support made a noticeable difference—the expertise from local carpenters, labourers and the wonderful cooking from Rob's mom kept them fuelled and ready for anything.

Last-Minute Crusade

As the final weekend approached, anticipation filled the air, but substantial work remained. Many nights revolved around all nighters doing laundry, prepping beds and last minute touches. Lorraine and Rob found joy amid the chaos, there was lots of laughter and even time to squeeze a bit of music. Finally, without a second to spare, they managed to make the last bed right as the first guests arrived!

Inviting atmosphere of a newly renovated guest room

The Grand Unveiling

Finally, during the weekend of May 22-24, 2022, Lorraine and Rob celebrated their achievement. Riversea was no longer just a building; it had morphed into a vibrant destination with a restaurant and a fully-stocked bar.

Guests came in droves, and the atmosphere crackled with excitement. Exhausted yet overjoyed, Lorraine and Rob immersed themselves in the experience, cherishing moments shared with their first visitors. They observed their friends gather and relish every part of the property, from taking a dip in the cold ocean to arranging lawn chairs in the yard and exchanging drinks and stories.

As the night progressed, Lorraine and Rob took a moment to step back and appreciate the scene before them. The laughter, the music, and the dancing all symbolized the successful transformation of Riversea into a vibrant hub for the community. It was a night filled with memories, marking the beginning of a new chapter for both the venue and the friendships that had blossomed within it.

Friends taking a dip in the ocean before the evening festivities

Reflections on a Rollercoaster Journey

Throughout the extensive renovation journey, Lorraine and Rob thrived on passion and the unwavering support of their community. The project transformed through all the sweat, laughter, and occasional tears. In the end, they emerged not only with a beautifully renovated hotel but also with an even deeper connection to their community and the value of teamwork.

Reflecting on their experience, they feel a sense of pride that goes beyond the physical changes to Riversea. They learned vital lessons about resilience and adaptability. Guests now enjoy a space transformed by collective effort, and every visitor carries a piece of their story.

Our first guests (and closest friends) arm in arm singing along to some top tier entertainment