The History
Perched above the Waterford River in St. John’s, this remarkable home was originally built for one of Newfoundland’s leading merchant families. Over the years, it has stood as a quiet landmark of craftsmanship and character. Today, Julian’s Gate carries that legacy forward in a new form, reimagined into six distinct residential suites that honour both the history and the natural setting of the estate.
Crafted to stand apart
Every stage of this restoration was guided by a deep respect for the estate and its surroundings. Early in the process, the home was carefully lifted, repositioned, and reinforced to make the most of its riverside location. Standing on any balcony now offers an uninterrupted view of the Waterford River, with the sound of the water carrying through the valley below.
“An elegant marker of innovatioN and place”
Built for Charles P. Ayre of the Ayre & Sons merchant family, the home once stood as a quiet expression of achievement and taste. The Ayres employed thousands of people across Newfoundland, shaping both commerce and civic life in the province, and their residence carried the confidence of a family in step with progress.
When electric light first arrived in St. John’s, this was among the earliest homes to shine after dark. It stood as a symbol of modern living in a city on the rise, a blend of heritage and innovation that continues at Julian’s Gate today.
The Waterford River has always been this home’s defining feature. Its steady flow through Bowring Park and the valley brings a calm that feels far from the city, even when you are only minutes away. Here, landscape and architecture share a rhythm.
The estate has been crafted around the river itself. Every suite includes a balcony with a riverside view, and the first and second suites feature private riverfront decks where the flow of the Waterford becomes part of the home.
The original Queen Anne Revival structure was built to endure, and it has. From the curve of the stair to the glint of coloured glass, its details bridge eras in a single glance. Preserving as much of the home as possible has been central to its renewal.
The estate’s legacy continues today as Julian’s Gate. The Waterford River remains at the heart of the property, lending a sense of peace and escape even within the city. Private balconies and outdoor spaces draw the landscape inward, while the craftsmanship within reflects the same care that shaped the home more than a century ago.
This is more than a renovation. It is a revival, rooted in the river, steeped in history, and created for those who appreciate both.
Harbour Capital Corp is known for their delivery of exceptional executive homes.
