A lighthouse is one of those iconic buildings that are fascinating for most people. However, with so many no longer used for their original purpose, one will occasionally come onto the market. The option is to buy it and convert it into the perfect family home. This is not necessarily an easy task, but if it is something that you have always dreamed of, then the effort will be worth it. In recent years the prospect of living inside a lighthouse has become more appealing and even trendy. This has been helped by the increased availability of relatively cheap disused lighthouses. People interested in residing in one may do so because they have a romantic view of what day to day life will be like. However, the reality is far less glamorous. While these properties are ideal for some people there are several aspects of lighthouse life that need to be known.
Finding Your Lighthouse
It is fair to say that you will need to be ready to go at a moment’s notice. Lighthouses do not come onto the market very often, and when they do, they are snapped up, so you need to be ready. You should also be prepared for the fact that even in a rudimentary state, a lighthouse will not come cheap so having funds available is essential. Keep an eye on the property sale websites and set up notifications for unusual properties.
Making it a Home
Some lighthouses will already have rooms within the structure itself. In contrast, others will have a separate building next to it that will form the living accommodation. You may even be lucky enough to have both. If there are rooms already set up as a kitchen and bathroom, that is good, as it will save you a great deal of time and money getting the plumbing sorted out.
For a living room, choose one that has a great view. Sea views are part of the package with a lighthouse, and you should make the most of them. Of course, you could go with an obvious nautical theme in your home, but you also have the option to be a lot more creative. For example, you can choose any sofa and then just have Bemz sofa covers in different colours to change the look of the room any time that you want. As well as protecting the furniture, they will help make the sofa look new and fresh no matter how old it is.
Keeping your colour scheme simple is also a good idea. Plain neutral colours are best because you can always add a colourful accent with the accessories in the room, such as cushion covers and lampshades. These are also easier to change when you get bored with the colour and will save redecorating too often.
It Can Be Very Isolating
Lighthouses tend to be located in very remote locations. The owner will need to be comfortable with having a quiet and isolated life. They should be able to keep themselves occupied without the need for constant human contact. For some this will be too difficult.
Owners May Have To Meet Tourists
In some cases owners will have the opposite problem. Lighthouses are a popular part of British tourism as numerous people visit them annually. The owner may have to perform the role of a tour guide. This could entail showing them around the lighthouse and explaining its history.
Energy Could Be An Issue
News sites including BBC have reported on the energy issues faced by British households. These will be even more extreme for lighthouses. Owners will usually have to be self sufficient when it comes to supplying energy for the interior. A decent generator should be obtained for this purpose.
Owners Should Stock Up On Supplies
The remoteness of lighthouses also poses the problem of keeping supplied with enough food and water. The nearest shop could be many miles away from the property. Therefore owners may need to transport a large amount of supplies all in one journey. Perishable foods should be avoided in favour of ones that can be stored for long periods of time.
No comments:
Post a Comment