What's Happening?
An Australian woman, Tess, and her French husband, Tom, have embarked on a significant renovation project of an 18th-century home in Lake Como, Italy. The couple purchased the 1719 property, which they describe as needing 'far more work than we'd imagined,'
after being captivated by its 'incredible' views. They are documenting their journey, dubbed 'Stairmaster Reno,' on Instagram and YouTube under 'Lake Como Project.' The renovation involves extensive demolition, structural updates, mould removal, and the installation of new kitchens and bathrooms. While licensed local builders handle specialized tasks like plumbing and floor reinforcement, Tom and Tess are undertaking much of the work themselves, including painting, tiling, and building the kitchen. They have encountered challenges such as securing a mortgage as foreigners and delays in parking space completion. Despite the difficulties, they express no regrets, viewing the property as their 'little piece of paradise' and their 'forever home.'
Why It's Important?
This story highlights a growing trend of individuals taking on ambitious renovation projects of historic properties, often in picturesque international locations. For U.S. audiences, it showcases the allure of European real estate and the challenges and rewards associated with preserving historical architecture. The couple's decision to document their journey publicly also taps into the popular DIY and home renovation content market, influencing design trends and offering practical insights into large-scale home improvements. The project underscores the financial and logistical complexities of international property ownership and renovation, including navigating foreign mortgage systems and local building regulations. It also reflects a broader interest in sustainable living and the restoration of existing structures rather than new construction, appealing to those interested in heritage preservation and unique lifestyle choices.
What's Next?
Tom and Tess are continuing their renovation efforts, having reached the halfway point of their project in late May. Their immediate next steps include further interior work, such as tiling bathrooms, building the kitchen, and laying flooring. They also plan to undertake exterior landscaping and have appointed a local architect to assist with the upcoming stages, including planning and permissions for an attic conversion. The couple will continue to share their progress through their social media channels, providing ongoing updates on their 'Stairmaster Reno.' In the long term, they aim to complete the transformation of the 300-year-old property into their permanent residence. They also harbor future aspirations to renovate a small cabin in the mountains for winter escapes, though they acknowledge the current project takes precedence.
Beyond the Headlines
Beyond the immediate renovation, this project touches upon several deeper implications. It exemplifies the romanticized ideal of 'la dolce vita' and the pursuit of a dream lifestyle in Italy, often fueled by social media narratives. The couple's hands-on approach to renovating a centuries-old home raises questions about the balance between preserving historical integrity and adapting properties for modern living. Their experience navigating Italian bureaucracy and construction practices as foreigners offers a glimpse into the complexities of cross-cultural undertakings. Furthermore, their public documentation of the process contributes to a broader conversation about the accessibility and feasibility of such ambitious projects, potentially inspiring or deterring others. The story also subtly highlights the economic value of historical properties, even those requiring extensive work, especially in highly desirable locations like Lake Como, and the personal investment required to transform them.
