1. Background
Pamela Anderson returned to her roots in Ladysmith, British Columbia, to renovate her grandparents’ former estate, which she has owned for more than 25 years.
The property, spread across seven acres, carries deep sentimental value, housing several structures that had fallen into disrepair.
Her renovation journey has been documented in media features and her own design series, Pamela’s Garden of Eden.
2. Property Overview
- Size: ~7 acres
- Structures:
- The Roadhouse – formerly her grandparents’ teahouse.
- The Cabin – a rustic guest cottage.
- The Boathouse – intended as Pamela’s main residence.
Each building blends heritage elements with refreshed design choices, honoring the estate’s history while making it livable for the present.
3. Renovation Team
- Designer: Francesca Albertazzi (Love It or List It Vancouver)
- Build Crew: Local tradespeople, including Dan Hayhurst (who later became her husband).
- Pamela’s Role: Hands-on involvement, from design decisions to landscaping.
4. Renovation Highlights
a) Interior Spaces
Basement Transformation
- Cost: ~CAD 24,500
- Converted from a dark, neglected space into a charming laundry + mudroom.
- Features: polished concrete floors, vintage luggage décor, record player, and organized storage.
Kitchen Veranda
- Whitewashed floors, antique chairs, rustic finishes.
- Opens to serene views of forest and shoreline.
Living & Porches
- The Roadhouse porch styled with wicker furniture and floral accents.
- Cozy, nostalgic atmosphere perfect for family gatherings.
b) Exterior & Landscaping
- Preserved mature trees for natural shade and privacy.
- Created a 5,000 sq ft vegetable garden, supported by a potting shed/greenhouse.
- Added outdoor dining spaces, including a rose-garden retreat for family meals and remembrance.
5. Design Style
- Core Themes: Cottagecore, rustic elegance, coastal serenity.
- Materials: Natural wood, polished stone, vintage furniture, wicker, and antique accents.
- Color Palette: Soft neutrals, whites, muted greens, and natural tones.
- Ambience: Romantic, nostalgic, rooted in family history.
6. Key Takeaways
- Emotional Value: Renovation was less about luxury and more about creating a sanctuary that honors her family legacy.
- Budget Conscious: Strategic investments (like the CAD 24.5k basement remodel) transformed functional areas without overspending.
- Nature as a Feature: Gardens, porches, and natural views are central to the design.
- Blending Past & Present: Vintage elements mix with modern comfort for a timeless effect.
7. Lessons for Homeowners
- Honor history: Retain sentimental or structural features where possible.
- Think beyond interiors: Gardens, porches, and outdoor dining can be as impactful as indoor spaces.
- Invest smartly: Target high-impact areas (laundry, kitchens, porches) for upgrades.
- Layer style: Use affordable vintage finds, textiles, and plants to achieve a spa-like or cottage feel without massive costs.
Conclusion
Pamela Anderson’s renovation is more than a makeover—it’s a heartfelt restoration.
By blending cottage charm, coastal lightness, and deep nostalgia, she turned a long-abandoned family property into a soulful retreat that balances heritage and modern comfort.
