An international couple, Tom from France and his Australian wife Tess, has embarked on a significant renovation project of a 300-year-old property in Lake Como, Italy, acquired in October of the previous year. The couple, who have not disclosed the purchase price but indicated it was a fraction of prices in Milan or Sydney, are documenting their journey on their Instagram and YouTube channels under the name 'Lake Como Project.'
Delays were encountered during the process, primarily related to securing a mortgage as foreign nationals and awaiting the completion of parking spaces included in the sale. Despite these hurdles, the couple acknowledged the house required more work than initially anticipated. "The view was incredible. The house needed far more work than we'd imagined. But once we walked into the garden, there was no going back," they stated.
Renovation Scope and Challenges
The renovation encompasses a wide range of tasks, including full-scale demolition, window upgrades, mold removal, structural repairs, and the installation of new kitchen and bathroom suites, along with an outdoor kitchen. While essential services like plumbing, electrical work, and floor reinforcement are being handled by licensed local builders, Tess and Tom are personally undertaking much of the cosmetic and finishing work, such as painting, tiling, kitchen construction, and flooring.
One significant challenge has been the transportation of materials to the property, which is situated on a hillside. While some items have been airlifted by helicopter, local builders also utilize specialized tractors to navigate the narrow streets. The couple themselves have been involved in transporting hundreds of vintage marble tiles, each weighing approximately 10 kilograms, up steep paths, a task they described as their "free gym membership."
During the renovation, the couple has uncovered historical elements of the house, including original Moltrasio stone flooring from 1719 and a porthole window hidden behind a 1970s fireplace. They are focused on restoring the original character of the house by reversing some of the more recent additions.
Sourcing and Progress
To furnish and equip the house, Tess and Tom have frequented secondhand marketplaces and thrift shops. For €285, they acquired a collection of items, including a 1950s Italian mirror, an Art Deco ceiling light, vintage wall lights, a 1950s chair, Italian glassware, and an outdoor table.
By late May, the couple had reached the halfway point of their renovation project. While Tess's fluency in Italian has been an asset, they have still encountered cultural differences regarding timelines, communication with builders, and invoicing.
Future Plans and Outlook
Reflecting on their experience, the couple advises future renovators to engage a local architect early in the process. They recently appointed one to assist with the next stages, including planning and permissions for an attic conversion, noting the value of having someone local to navigate the Italian system.
Despite the demanding nature of the project, Tess and Tom express no regrets and feel fortunate to be restoring the property. They aspire to make it their permanent residence and are already envisioning future projects, such as renovating a mountain cabin for winter escapes.
"Every time we sit in the garden, look out over the lake or jump in the pool after a long day working on the house, we remember why we took it on in the first place," they said, underscoring their commitment to their Lake Como home.