At Home with Catherine & John: A Tuck In Conversation on working with Judith & the Tuck Team to renovate their historic Rothesay Home
John & Catherine’s historic Rothesay home is full of colour, character, and bold design choices — and in our newest Tuck In blog, they’re sharing what it was really like to work with Judith and the Tuck team.
From wallpaper hesitations to puzzle-perfect parlours, it’s a warm and inspiring read.
We sat down with John & Catherine, the wonderful homeowners featured in our latest Tuck In issue, to talk about their experience working with Judith and the Tuck team to transform their charming 1856 Rothesay, NB home into a bold and welcoming retreat.
From embracing deep colours and daring wallpaper to navigating the scale of historic rooms, John & Catherine’s story is a reminder that great design is not just about choosing beautiful things — it’s about creating a home that feels like you.
Keep reading below to dive in — and if it sparks ideas for your own space, you learn more about Tuck's Interior services here.
Q&A: A Conversation With John & Catherine
What was it about this home that made you fall in love with it?
Catherine: "The home was built in 1856 and is full of charm, both inside and out. While the exterior is surrounded by trees and has classic curb appeal, the inside immediately felt warm and welcoming — especially the “parlour,” which runs from the front to the back of the house and includes two fireplaces and a small library nook."
When Judith suggested deep colours and bold patterns, what was your first reaction?
Catherine: "We were excited! I was especially eager to explore bold colours. John had been more hesitant about using colour in large ways, but once Judith started sharing her ideas — especially in the dining room — we both fell in love with the richness and personality they added to the home."
Was there a design challenge you had to overcome?
Catherine: "Definitely the size of the parlour. It’s large and open, which can feel overwhelming — but Judith helped us break it up visually and functionally. Now it works beautifully as one grand entertaining space or two cozier areas.
And John wasn't a huge wallpaper fan at first. But after seeing Cole & Son samples with Judith, we were both completely sold. Now it’s one of our favourite design elements throughout the home."
Do you have a favourite piece that ties it all together?
"The wallpaper! It’s bold, playful, and completely transforms each room. We even named the guest rooms after them — “Safari” for the dancing elephant paper, and “Birch” for the moody, forest-inspired print."
What surprised or delighted you most during the process?
"Being shown pieces we never would’ve picked on our own — and realizing how beautifully they worked once placed in context. Judith truly has a vision."
What would you take with you to your Toronto home?
"That perfect balance of colour, texture, and intimacy. Judith helped us make bold design decisions while still maintaining warmth and comfort."
What do guests always comment on?
"The bold wallpaper, the richness of colour, and the sense of intimacy in such a large space. That’s the magic of good design — it makes even the grandest rooms feel inviting."
Favourite ways to use the space?
"Reading by the fire. Cozy puzzle mornings. Hosting friends in the dining room and lingering over drinks in the parlour."
Signature scent of the home?
"Homemade bread — or anything cooking."
Theme song of your Rothesay home?
"My Favourite Things from The Sound of Music."
One design rule you were happy to break?
Mixing old and new. The home has traditional bones, but modern touches bring it to life without losing its history.
Want to create your own version of home?
John & Catherine’s space is a blend of trust, bold choices, and thoughtful design — and the Tuck team would love to help you create your version of that magic.
Let’s work together — at your place, our place, or virtually.
Book a consultation today or visit us in-store to get started.
