Breathing Life Back into a Landmark: The Story Behind CLOVE. lofts on Front
When we moved to Trenton from Vancouver 18 years ago with two babies in tow, we were looking for space to breathe, for roots, and for the kind of community that feels like family. What we found in the Quinte region was all that—and so much more.
I’m Jannine, a self-proclaimed design junkie, and my husband Dwayne is a Master Electrician. Together, we’ve built a life here: we bought Diamond Electrical Contractors nearly a decade ago and grew it into a thriving local business that now employs more than 40 talented residents. That journey—and the incredible support we’ve received from our clients and team—has deeply inspired us to give back. We’ve always believed that if you’re in a position to invest in your community, you should. That’s how real, lasting change begins.
Our latest project—CLOVE. Lofts on Front—is more than just a renovation. It’s a love letter to Trenton’s potential.
It started just before the pandemic when we stumbled across the historic “Saylor” building. The bones were solid, the charm undeniable, but it had lost its spark. We couldn’t shake the feeling that this building had more to give. Built in 1877 by Samuel Cooley, the Saylor Block is one of Trenton’s most significant 19th-century commercial structures—and one of the few that survived the devastating fire of 1978, thanks to a firewall insisted upon by Mr. Saylor Sr. during renovations. That same grit and foresight inspired us to bring it back to life.
We bought the Saylor and its neighboring building (once home to Wish Interiors) and launched a full-scale transformation—down to the studs. New electrical, plumbing, HVAC, insulation—you name it, we redid it. And just like that, CLOVE. was born. The name itself is a nod to the spice—a little bold, a little unexpected, and completely full of character.
Inside, we’ve created a collection of luxury loft residences that truly stand apart. Picture original oversized windows flooding each suite with sunlight, ceilings soaring close to 20 feet, and two-level layouts that blend boutique hotel elegance with everyday comfort. Every suite boasts high-end finishes, hardwood floors, gas fireplaces, and—perhaps the rarest luxury of all—a private garage.
We envisioned CLOVE. for those who appreciate quality and community. It’s perfect for folks downsizing from larger homes who still want space, light, and comfort—especially with elevator access and wide hallways that accommodate mobility aids with ease. And for young professionals who crave walkable downtown living, the waterfront trail, coffee shops, and restaurants are all just steps away.
But we didn’t stop at lofts. We’re just as passionate about reimagining what downtown Trenton could be, and that includes our two prime commercial spaces—ready for something bold, beautiful, and a little bit “sheshe.”
With big windows, steady foot traffic, and a free public parking lot right across the street, these retail units are ideal for boutique lounges, gourmet food markets, or curated shops that bring a fresh spark to our main street. Our first tenant, the beloved Wish Home Interiors, returned to her rightful home, and McKinnon Psychotherapy and Counselling is set to open September 1st. Two spots remain, and we’re saving them for businesses that want to be part of something special.
Trenton doesn’t need to look to Belleville or Picton for inspiration—it is the inspiration. But revitalization doesn’t happen by accident. It happens when people stop waiting and start building. That’s why we do what we do. Whether it’s volunteering for YMCA fundraisers, donating electrical work to local charities, or investing in our main street—we believe you’ve got to put your money where your mouth is.
CLOVE. is our way of saying thank you to the town that welcomed us all those years ago. And maybe, just maybe, it’s a spark that helps bring downtown Trenton roaring back to life.
So if you’re looking for an extraordinary place to live—or the perfect space to launch your next venture—we’d love to welcome you to CLOVE.
