When the Great Fire of 1892 swept through St. John's it destroyed almost all of the downtown and east end of the city. In the aftermath the city was rebuilt fairly quickly, making great use of the Second Empire Style of architecture, with trademark mansard roofs and dormer. One such house was built as number three York Street by Thomas Voisey.

The house is a two storey structure with Mansard roof and bonneted dormer windows. Mr. Voisey and his neighbour in number five, Charlie Sage, were "cabmen" and both houses share a carriageway through which the horses and carriages were led to sheds in the backyards. The second storeys of both houses overhung this passage to meet in the middle. This "carriageway" is an uncommon feature adding interest to both homes. In the 1930's the carriageway was closed off to maintain privacy but the outline of its location is still visible. In 1982 the house was sold to Penny Houlden and Ralph Clemens.

Three York Street was well maintained over the years. When Penny and Ralph took possession they began to remodel the home, removing the evidence of a two family dwelling and turning it in to a single family home that has become a canvas on which Ralph's craftsmanship is demonstrated.

Ralph Clemens is a master cabinet-maker and a well known and respected expert in the field of furniture and building restoration. Since 1970 he has worked with the Provincial Department of Historic Resources restoring the furniture that is representative of our heritage. His touch and talent is very evident in Yorkholme. Panelled wainscotting in the hall sets off the unusual pierced plaster moulding in the downstairs. The room which was the upstairs kitchen has been turned into a living room, tastefully furnished with restored antiques or reproductions. Downstairs, in a small sitting room, Ralph has made a set of beautifully crafted built in shelves to flank the central fireplace. The main kitchen was completely remodelled be Ralph, right down to the beautiful stencilled cabinets.

One of the most striking additions has been the wonderfully ornate front entrance frame adding a touch of grandeur to the whole building. The simple window box below the downstairs front window adds a finishing touch that speaks both of craftsmanship and a love of simple details.

Penny Houlden took on plastering and sanding as well as pitching in wherever needed. Her touch shows in every roo as well as in the impeccable gardens in their yard. Between the two of them they have made Yorkholme a house that speaks of a strong value for heritage and an inspiration for anyone who undertakes the restoration of an older home.