Renovating a STONE COTTAGE in IRELAND.

[@campervibe]

You can check out Rosetta Stone here partners.rosettastone.com/campervibe-2 What language would you love to learn?

[@flutterbyfluster]

If you get a place in the Algarve it's geared up for Brits/buying property. And many speak English.

[@charleendunn5446]

Option 2 for Emily. If you do a vaulted ceiling, I would consider putting a loft above one end of the room if you have enough ceiling space. A cozy reading area 😊

[@estellegrove4853]

Sorry girls I tried to send you a link to stone cladding but it’s not allowing me to. Have a look at Kuci Design. Their stone walls are amazing. You’d never know they were panels. I just think they’d be better than plaster board. You might find a cheaper shop but just thought I’d tell you about the cladding as not a lot of people know about it and assume when they hear about it, that it’s those cheap stick on things. ❤

[@Iconiccreative]

I'm learning Italian with Duolingo

[@charmaineburden609]

Been looking for the next one

[@debr628]

Option 2! if you're going to renovate ... invest in your dream home, don't compromise. Did that with my home, approached it in phases and it was the best decision. Wish I had your made skills to take on what have ... wow ... what makes this channel so heart warming is the love/respect you have for each other ...

[@bunnyfrancis7006]

If only more people were like these wonderful people. What a lovely world we'd have. I adore your videos. Wait for them every week. oxox

[@marywilliams5262]

You don’t recover the upgrade dollar for dollar but it’s your forever home.

[@campervibe]

This is true, if it’s your forever then it’s got to be what you want to spend you time in forever 🙂

[@julielaxen9520]

Option 2, take your time and do how you really want it. Good luck girls.😊❤

[@lyndamorgan5221]

Number-2,2,2,2!! 🤩

[@memememineme]

Sorry but I can’t help myself. Here’s what I would do!! Option 4! Take note!! 😝 The now bedroom and kitchen are a separate beautiful lounge with your high roof and fireplace which we have also done and is amazing! That means knocking out those walls. Then the little room at back will become the dining room with guest bedroom above it. (Stairs can go up from living room OR dining room) THEN Emily’s extension which will become a “garden and veranda kitchen” . And what is Lou’s snug is a bedroom with big terrace doors to the garden which you can look out to in the mornings from your bed coffee in hand.. ☕️ 🌹 We did all these things and they are the best part of our restoration. The kitchen NEEDS to connect to the garden so Emily can go get her herbs whilst cooking and it connects to the outdoor dining / veranda to the back. The bedroom NEEDS to be far away from lounge so tv does not bother the person sleeping. ❤ oooh I have so many ideas. This is an expensive version so would also need to be done in stages. Totally annoying! You did ask for ideas though! Sorry guys!!! 😂

[@campervibe]

Ooo yours is a new option 4 I have not heard of 😀

[@joshmo4275]

@@campervibeHave to say I like the sound of this option 4! 😅 And you can still maintain the look and integrity of such a beautiful old farm cottage at the front. Keep that aspect as it is, with its beautiful red doors. You two are fun and entertaining, so thank you for sharing your adventures with us Lou and Emily. Whether travels or house build it’s always worth the watch. And whatever you decide on will be fabulous I’m sure.

[@cathrynbagley8005]

I like Lou's idea of the snug - no point building an extension when you have a perfectly good space next door. Save the extension money for the re-build of the bathroom. I'm with Emily for the bigger window.

[@2002odella]

Option 2 for defiant

[@campervibe]

Got to be a bigger window 🙌

[@masterofnone520]

@@campervibe but will the grant come through, if you do that?

[@mytrueserenity5666]

@@campervibe Definitely a bigger window! You can recycle the smaller window for another room. Win-win!

[@vnawenn]

I love option 2… but I think I can speak for most when I say, watching you both living your “best life” and creating your forever home is enough for us, whatever you decide 🥰

[@TerminusVox]

I like Louise's snug+loft+windows+skylights+tin roof+eventual bathroom renovation.... I think that's option two.

[@AbigailGerlach-zt1sh]

This is a multi-step project which can be done as finances are available. Start the process by tearing down the wacky leaning outer wall while the weather is warmer. Rebuild the stonework, re-point, and then render with lyme. Second, tear down each side of the fireplace, open up the back of the fireplace into the kitchen so it's double sided and rebuild the chimney. Make it into an old time cottage/farm fireplace with a double sided wood burning stove at the center. ( no need to move the fireplace stone lintel). Pull down the ceiling for whatever repairs need going and put your pipes, ducting, and plumbing in a "crawl space" in the ceiling instead of the wall. You only need about 1.5 feet of space. Third, build an island on wheels for the kitchen. Put the dining room where you suggested it. Put in a massive old oak dining table. Recover from all that work. Go van living in Portugal for a couple of months, come back for Phase II.

[@campervibe]

So true, definitely a long multi step for sure and I like the island on wheels idea 🙂

[@isobleu]

If you have measurements of the house, I'd be happy to do up a rendered 3d model of the house with the various options free of charge to thank you for the enjoyment of the videos! Can see if an island would fit 😅

[@callmebeth]

What a kind offer

[@katebettesworth2638]

What a lovely generous thing to give. 🙏🏼💚 Restores me faith in folk. 🙏🏼💚

[@campervibe]

That is an extremely lovely offer, we would not want to put you out though, feel free to pop us an email [e-mail] 🙂

[@Waiheke-Transcend]

Tin roofs are totally normal in New Zealand. They're perfect. yes you can hear the rain.... it's lovely!

[@AuntieMame361]

I had a tin roof on my cottage in Canada and, disappointingly, never heard the rain. Possibly because of added insulation to adjust for our winters…. but I kept listening for it lol

[@LittleBear290]

I like option 2. I would add French doors on the wall that is coming down, so that AJ and Summer have easy access to the newly fenced in back yard., plus for Emily, a Lange window 😉. You two are amazing, and what ever you decide will be wonderful! I love following along.

[@katebettesworth2638]

Brilliant idea! 👍👍👍👍

[@marks-0-0]

Yes full height glass doors is a no brainer when you have great views outside.

[@campervibe]

Got to do that ain’t we really

[@stephenrussell6074]

As I said I would rebuild as the underlying reasons for the collapsing walls will still be there and a rebuild will give you a much larger, warmer interior with the same external footprint.

[@stephenrussell6074]

If you do go for option 2 replace the tin roof with inset all black solar panels with a surround of any material you like. It will with a battery take you completely off grid. The all black solar panels as part of rather than sitting on the roof will look great sitting against the slate. They have no lines at all on the best ones which we have and they are 455W each ours (25) are generating 50kWh a day at the moment

[@McKatrine]

I'm so invested in this project by this point that if someone gave me a time machine tomorrow and told me I could do anything with it I would go to the future 5 years from now to see how this cottage looks. Nothing else. That's it.

[@markwhalebone751]

First thing is to talk to a structural engineer about the possibilities 😁

[@DarkHorseDaze]

I think Louise's idea is better 🙂 *I would put in as many French or Sliding Patio Doors and large windows as possible, facing the back garden, not the roadside. * Keep the front of the house looking original-ish (roadside), regarding windows and red doors. Better privacy that way. *Keep the tin roof (new obviously). *Put an internal door through to Emily's office. *Don't bother with an upstairs bedroom for now. Friends can sleep in their van's 😉 or snug or Emily's office. I love watching you girls, you are the perfect combination together. 👩‍❤️‍👩 Teamwork makes the dream work! 👍🏻😊

[@dee2251]

I would make sure you have a door to the outside where you plan on extending the current bathroom & having a utility room. That way when it’s wet and muddy outside, you can keep your muddy boots, raincoats, doggy coats & towels in there without bringing any mud inside.

[@michaelodonoghue7464]

13:08 if you had two big glass panel windows on either side of the Snug, you could have two Red Door shutters hung on the inside, so that at night you could close the Doors, giving privacy and opening them in the morning to give light.

[@ZartelleRose-y1k]

Emily should have a door to her office from the snug which would be lovely for her. If not, then an open but covered porch from the red door to her office door on the outside. With rain and winter, wind etc she should have coverage and convenience.

[@alidabotes6264]

Agree.

[@AnneNiM-ni3fx]

Option 2 Windows at the back can be enlarged, don’t change anything at front. Do door to office as if the other houses are ever done Emily's office can be there and the office can be a third bedroom then

[@jhickman4735]

Yes, it rains a lot there

[@thelmalewis7870]

I think op 2 but also like op 3 cost effective . Door from snug to emily office, and also in an emergency as her office area is small she will have too exits out. Live life to the full , follow your heart, this project will always be in your heart what ever you both decide whether its op 1 op2 op3 or holiday in the sun😂

[@orchidhouse297]

You need to talk to an architect. We thought we had a good design for our kitchen which needed taking back to the concrete foundation and the brick walls, plus replace the ceiling. Our designer came up with ideas we had never dreamed of, like slide out racks for food, and a chef's pantry where the electrical devices could be left out, all the cooking ingredients placed on shelves and doors that shut to make it look like a cupboard. He also blended the open plan kitchen into the dining area.Things have moved on a lot since I designed my last kitchen in the late 70s.

[@campervibe]

It’s good when they do that right 😀

[@kevinthebespectacledpilgrim]

Agree. Research one that has experience and sympathy with refurbed old farm type cottages using as much natural/sustainable materials as possible.

[@kaikito7662]

2.5k views in the first 19 minutes. Testimony to how fantastic and wonderful you both are.

[@wsu6679]

~4.5k in first 36min

[@campervibe]

Aw thanks guys 🙂

[@jed86515]

@@campervibe sorry I was late today x 😆😅

[@WendyMawer]

​@@campervibe I can't get enough of you girls.. You make my week. We are about to start looking at buying in Spain. You girls have inspired us to buy an older property and make it our own living in with the Spanish people and not in a holiday complex.. 🎉 Can't wait to see what the engineer has to say.. Get 3 points of view, don't go with your first builder don't pay up front, pay them in stages and get A FULL JOB quote and time span/date for completion. Don't let the job slow down by not getting items needed delivered on time.. Keep on top of the schedule by having a plan of works on a wall (preferably not one your knocking down 😂) set out phases and this way you won't get over whelmed by the who excitement of the build & decisions to be made 😮😵😁♥️♥️♥️ love you girls keep going! 🎉

[@ciaramoore0]

Option 3 ...take your time see how the house works for you and you can always do more bit by bit down the line ....as for the bigger windows if you can't make them wider you can always just make them longer towards the ground without disturbing the lentil above ..these can make beautiful quirky windows ..they made smaller windows to let the light in and along with thick walls to keep the house warm ..love your videos 😊 20:46

[@RobertCretanhero]

After eighteen years on this beautiful island we've learnt that if you make an honest attempt to converse in the language of your hosts then acceptance is so much easier! However I'm sure our " blunt Greek " has given our Greek friends and neighbours hours of amusement. To see them concentrating so hard at our early, clumsy attempts at mangling their beautiful language was heartwarming. ☺️🇬🇷 So try, try, try to master, at least the basics. The rewards are amazing. 😎🇬🇷

[@campervibe]

At least you are trying and that really does go along way

[@maryfitzpatrick8383]

The snug and the office are a good idea. Easily heat for Winter. - Kitchen/dining room in one would be lovely - put French door in. - Be wary of lowering the ceiling too much in the living room as if lowered too much, besides the cost, will make yee feel very cramped. - tin roof will be grand - love you guys. - please check with engineer before you knock anything. Good luck and I look forward to watching yee.Mary Behan (don't know how to change my name on my account). Your Sunday posts make my Sundays sweeter.

[@MoonRiverTravels]

Having lived in Oz for 30+ yrs, where tin rooves are pretty standard, dont worry Em, you wont hear it! Plenty of insulation and soundproofing plaster, you'll be comfy as! 🎉 Loving Lou's ideas, practical solutions to some curly problems.

[@campervibe]

Good to know, thanks

[@judymurray6524]

I'm in Oz too and love my tin roof

[@julie3935]

Came to say the same. I was reluctant to buy my first house here in Oz as it had a tin roof but it was a lovely cosy home for us for a decade. Also tin is lighter so the roof trusses are cheaper!

[@lolliedog363]

Maybe option 3. Just do the minimum to be comfortable. If you are planning on having a place in Portugal for the winters there is no point in going overboard and stretching your funds. Id just do essential items now which will need to be done anyway give one winter in the house and see how you feel then.

[@SafeAndSounds]

Enough feedback already on option 2. Use the red door as the door from the kitchen to the snug if possible and have one glass door, on the garden side which is the back side? Consider well you've said this will be your forever home. If so, choose wisely with this in mind and heart. Don't go overboard financially and don't go for cheap. What, in the prospect of your whole life, is most worth? Good luck! Thank you for the fun and sharing. ❤

[@campervibe]

Ooo like the idea of the red door as the dining/ snug door

[@eba44]

@@campervibe Yeah- and keep in mind all the various things you can do with the bits and pieces from the wreckage. Re-purposing if great! I live by it... ; )

[@rosemaryizzard4124]

Option 2. Why don't you have a glass door instead of the little window at the back. Knock your wall down and make your kitchen diner and sitting room all one until you have the snug done. What ever you do it will look great. Love watching you it makes my week.

[@campervibe]

Thank you 🙂

[@simonevans8979]

Agree with Cathryn: No point building an extension. I'm with the next door option - the snug will be a greater benefit for the two of you - and gives AJ and Summer somewhere to `lounge` in winter, but they'll need a bigger window too..!

[@aliheadington3764]

Option two, nothing wrong with tin roofs, it's all the go in NZ, Great listening to the rain with a roaring fire, cheap & easy to replace as well as take sheets of to refit a new water tank in the roof space - like I did, If your having a kitchen island - small is the way to go or have one on wheels you can roll away, I opted for a long breakfast bar facing out the window and stools and a table... 😊

[@ritas8088]

Lou's snug ✅️red door ✅️ cosy arm chair each in front of the aga✅️ 😊

[@freedombeyondfear]

If Emily would like an island but you don't feel there is enough room for a static 'table' you could do what we did - a singer sewing machine stand, put casters on the bottom and created a wooden worktop - sanded, oiled - bobs your uncle a mobile island in keeping with the style of your house :)

[@algyboy]

I agree with option 2.That will make your cottage a much better home for you both to enjoy as your forever home.

[@janistan]

Just love Emily's inspirational remodeling-dance! But Lou's plan sounds more practical... if the walls can survive. And remember: Plans are for having something to differ from on the way... -Keep on recording, we enjoy every next (dancing)step!

[@AnjaDesign117]

I would say a combination of both your options. Emily's kitchen idea with the kitchen island. And Lou's snug idea and bedroom upstairs idea. vaulted ceiling in the snug, nice woodburner.

[@campervibe]

Got to have a wood burner right

[@erikacooper8348]

Yes, could always extend the island top a smidge to incorporate a couple of stools under the top for breakfast/quick lunch/Lou's laptop area. Love Lou's snug + red door. This is fun, best wishes from Essex!

[@AnjaDesign117]

@@campervibe Yes absolutely.

[@debdraven6666]

Knock through everything you can, or want to! Get that clean slate and you might see it all differently. It's just as easy to rebuild a partition wall to your requirement. Good luck guys, thank you for the channel.

[@marklorna7513]

Remember that wall is holding the chimney up, get structural calcs regarding what you need to support it at a higher level, or take the whole chimney down from the top.

[@campervibe]

Down from the top for sure, if we do that we will get external help as well as it’s a big job with stupidly heavy stones so not something we would tackle alone 🙂

[@MegJones7]

It might be holding up roof too.

[@Angel-002]

​@@campervibe I said option 2 before you even asked for comments😂😂 I guess it depends on what the structural engineer says. Someone else has suggested taking the wall down in-between the kitchen & the other room but keep the fireplace as a double sided one & that way you don't have to take all the chimney & the big stone out. Then build an island on lockable wheels so it can be moved around if necessary & on one side have the top overhang so you can still have stools. It can be used for breakfast & quick snacks & a bit of work for now. The room where the wall is leaning out, you obviously will need to rebuild that so do it whilst it's still a bit lighter nights & warmer. You could put either french doors or bi-fold out onto the back where AJ's garden is if you are allowed to with building regs. I think that barn will be cozy with the big fireplace & the vaulted ceiling etc. It will look great when it's all done. If you do the double sided fireplace in the kitchen/room you could put a settee etc in there & use that area until you can get the barn finished & you'd have the fire to keep it warm & cosy in the winter. It'll save you money (hopefully) to put towards your extension for your bathroom & utility room & maybe incorporate a boot room or boot room/utility. You will need one if you are working on the land & have chickens or whatever especially in the rainy muddy months......put an outdoor tap there to wash the mud off your boots before you go in😬 I know someone who had a dog wash/grooming area (like a big stainless steel square sink with a shower tap like you get at a dog groomers) put in their boot room. It doesn't take up much room but good for her muddy dogs when they come in.(She has 3 dogs though) Then a bench with storage but obviously you can sit on it to change your shoes etc. Just get it how you want because like you said it's your forever home. So you might as well take your time & do it in stages & get what you want. I know it's going to be done expertly & will look stunning. Loving following you on this slog but it'll be worth it when it's all done.

[@DebReed54]

Love your vlog! Metal roof and snug. Extra bedroom above the kitchen. Keep the 2 red doors, be nice to easily access Emily’s office and have an exterior entrance to the snug.

[@JulieFarmer-js8so]

Option 2 all the way, sounds great especially when you do the bathroom and utility at a later date 😊❤

[@Ivanho-go]

A stone is a stone not an original feature, you can incorporate it elsewhere. Dont get architect get a surveyor to do what you want. I did what you are doing with the same problems. I would take out the leaning wall and push out a roofed but glazed extension. Put stair in the extension with baicony. My 15century pile of stones needed a steel frame, but you wouldnt know it was there now. If you are going to be away for long periods put in shut off taps on everything. Sorry dont want to lecture just want you to have the best home.

[@guyemmott4009]

Good advice..👍

[@campervibe]

Glad you got yours sorted

[@acleanslate637]

I love the idea of the extension and then you can knock the bathroom and make a big extension going the whole length of the house. In the main living area rather than a big window in the extension add a glass sliding door that goes the full length of the living area . The shed can be used as another project further down the line if you need extra room. But for the moment if you’re already building a new bathroom extension you might as well just build a big extension. I’m also very keen on the island idea . With the extension you might actually have the room for a big L kitchen and an island!

[@THESHOUTYBLOKE]

Option 2, but take out the back wall and put in bifold patio doors across the width of the dining room. This would like eating out in the garden in the warmer months. Free run for AJ and Summer too.

[@lisahayward5950]

Yes, that’d be good

[@craiggrady7938]

My wife and I think option 2. She also says you should put glass in doors in snug and convert the red door into a shutter. 👍

[@vampitwine]

option 2 sounds like a plan 👍 but as Em said put a little window in the red door for more light :)

[@elsienorback7689]

Option 2 with the snug, plus creating a nice big bathroom with a shower and tub. The deck outside should house a sauna and cold plunge.

[@musicianie]

I'm exhausted just thinking about what you guys are taking on with positivity and energy. I think incrementally is the way to go. Spend what you need to make the house a home, but do it in a way that keeps extensions and addons in mind. It's a huge project, and doing it in manageable chunks over time may preserve your marriage and sanity!

[@campervibe]

I think our sanity is already gone 😂🙈

[@matejsucik3920]

We are watching your videos every weekend. You have incredible positive energy. I had a smile from ear to ear at the first AJs zoomies. But I miss a "plop" sound when putting on the summer harness. Have you considered taking down the walls and building your dream cottage out of stone? It will be safer and you will know how its done. And sometimes it is cheaper than trying to save something that may not be statically ok. I dont say its not, only ... Alternatively, find a new crack or leak in an already renovated and cleaned house. And I'm for option of one rectangle, every edge is overpriced, especially on the roof. Also, if I stop the video on 1s, I would unite the two different roofs into one rectangle with one roof and all the windows and doors in red :-) We're keeping our fingers crossed . You are doing a great job !

[@Dreyno]

A friend of mine restored a similar cottage and knocked the two fireplaces through and installed a double sided stove. There’s a 20cm gap around the stove and there’s a doorway without a door between rooms. Sort of open plan but still two separate spaces. Light one fire and have a choice of which room to use. It’s worked out brilliantly for them. The stove even has a water boiler concealed around the top and sides. As it’s directly under the chimney, it doesn’t protrude into either room. It’s her house’s best feature. I would give the idea serious consideration if I were in your shoes.

[@Dreyno]

As you mentioned later on 😂 It’s a seriously good idea though. I love how her house turned out.

[@campervibe]

Such a lovely way of doing it

[@flowerpie]

Definitely option 2 ❤. And I whole heartedly with Louise on the tin roof, you can't beat a bit of wrinkly tin 🥰. The porrch over the 2 door idea that I saw in another comment sounds like a nice idea.

[@davidlloydberry5476]

To me it's a no brainer. Option 3 is the way to go, cheaper, quicker, will give you most of what you wanted to achieve, and will quickly let you get on with life and living your dreams. And forget the tin roof, imitation slates are not super expensive, and neither are roofing tiles, and are pretty much maintenance free and quiet in the rain, I have lived with a tin roof and it was not pleasant.😊❤

[@bearmascall6772]

I'd go with option 2, but that rear wall that is at risk of falling down, knock it out and rebuild incorporating Bi-fold doors or french windows. This not only gives easy access out onto your main back lawn, but you'll have enough of the original stone to rebuild it cheaply from knocking the internal wall down as well as where you knock through to the snug. the Glass Doors will cost, but the other materials you already have from walls comming down. As for the red doors, put large full size glass window panels in the snug dorways back and front, but use the red doors on the exterior (opening out by 180degrees to hook to the wall when open) as protective shutters when either away or in Scottish storms, you get the extra light in the snug and keep the red doors with a purpose.

[@lisaroth7526]

Looks like most think option 2 is the way to go. I agree, long term. But I think you begin with option 3 and as funds permit, create your snug exactly the way you both want it. You can put up with a smaller table and a sofa or a couple of chairs in the dining/sitting room for a few months or a year, while you perfect your design and Lou practices her liming and repointing. You are such a wonderful couple, with great respect for one another. Love watching you!

[@campervibe]

Aw thank you

[@Teenibash1969]

It’s beautiful. You may have to take down walls before rebuilding. But then they are rebuilt straighter and stronger.

[@Babygirl_2013]

So,sorry your going through this girls ❤I'd say option 2 definitely the snug sounds AMAZING ...❤

[@sportgliderider]

lovely heart warming video. Option 2. as you didnt like your open plan before, i would go with Lous Snug so you have the separate living room in the evenings after work, and the lowered ceiling to get a guest bedroom upstairs is a good idea. vaulted ceilings are good, but a waste of space so the bedroom is good. but in the snug, yes a nice vaulted ceiling to show off to guests would be good. and although a tin roof might be noisy, with insulation against heat loss it will also sound proof it. loved this video, so many ideas to mull over. cant wait to see what the engineer says, he might say to knock down the back wall from dining room anyway, so that throws plans up in the air again. so many options, scary and exciting at the same time. take care girls, see you on the next episode xx

[@marywilliams5262]

Suggestion warning: Do a variety of subjects … like crafting to bring viewers who would not find you otherwise but once found find your travels fascinating and stay. I will never do van life but I like watching you two.

[@campervibe]

Aw thank you, glad you enjoy the videos 🙂

[@paulsparrow657]

Im with option 2. It means you don't need to build the extension. You are both doing a brilliant job, it will be hard work and defiantly worth it in the end.

[@dawnbuddha]

Option 2 sounds like the middle way and a reasonable compromise ❤

[@cathymartucci5305]

I like option 2 and the bathroom extension. I hope you can take the time to make your dream home in that lovely spot.

[@ashleymckee1140]

Both sound lovely. Personally, I love an old world, cozy feel, so I like the snug. No matter what you do, I'm sure it will be lovely. Can't wait to follow your journey! Thanks for sharing. Team Option 2!

[@campervibe]

The snug does sound lovely

[@TheSpectre223]

I like option 2 personally, with the vaulted ceiling snug (agreed on keeping the red door and dual access) with skylights for light, and then the open-plan kitchen diner, with an attic bedroom. You can also have the back of that fireplace from the snug (assuming it's strong enough to stay etc) exposed in the attic bedroom as a feature. It'd be nice to have more of a transition from the inside to the outside though, so almost to combine Options 1 and 2 (which I know somewhat defeats the object of saving a bit but yano), french doors from the dining space into the garden, bringing loads of light and fresh air. Bonus idea, conservatory where Option 1's extension was going to be which could either be a normal sunroom, or go a bit quirky and have like a walk-through greenhouse with all the peppers and tomatoes you'd normally struggle with in an Irish climate. All food for thought though, and this ideas stage is arguably the most fun part of the project. It'd be good to knock up some renders in Google Sketchup or similar, help envisage the spaces in a 3D environment.

[@peterwhite9261]

Whatever you both decide to do, I know it will look beautiful. Best of luck, and I hope everything goes to plan smoothly. ❤

[@patriciafurey6864]

When you knock the bathroom, you could apply for permission to make a double height extension and have an en-suite to the upstairs room (by squaring the roof out to the en-suite you would also add great headroom) . I agree that a window pane instead of the red door would be very attractive and give lots of lovely light and then just move the door to the middle of the building and hang it as a false door! It's so exciting to consider all the options, but so hard to make a decision.

[@campervibe]

Oh wow that’s a big job 😀

[@marywilliams5262]

Yes, show us the steps. A lot of viewers just enjoy seeing other parts of the world.

[@deborahrogers8688]

Hi love watching your blogs, you are both so funny! Think you ought to get t shirts printed with the slogan “ shut up Louise”! 🤣🤣🤣 Can’t wait to see the start of your renovations, it’s really exciting. Have a good week guys 😊😊❤️❤️

[@Jeanetteinnes]

I would by one 😂🎉

[@carolinecaiger6717]

Option 2 maintains more of the integrity of the house and will be absolutely beautiful inside and more attractive outside 👍

[@gbwildlifeuk8269]

I'd go for the door into the office. That way, in the rain, snow and wind of winter, you dont have to trudge outside to gain access. As for the rest, both good, go for what your heart wants. You dont want to change it later!

[@jessicahollinghurst36]

Old cottages the stories I could tell but you get there in the end.

[@gingu]

Option 2 with the snug with a vaulted ceiling and velux windows. If you then put a through and through fireplace in the wall between the snug and dining room that will heat 2/3 rooms with one fire.

[@jhanna1347]

I've never heard of that area called a "snug" I like it but, yeah that option because it is your forever home as you called it; take it in stages but when it's done with the vaulted ceiling you will both love that area, probably the most

[@campervibe]

I think Louise is trying to be posh 😂😂 it’s just a living room

[@thelmalewis7870]

Going back in history what we call as a lounge was actually called a snug, they even had snugs in the old pubs too. History 😮

[@maureenmcginley1872]

Option 2 have a mezzanine guest bedroom over the kitchen or dining area with vaulted ceiling on the other side with velux windows for the extra light you would like. You will make the right decisions for yourselves.

[@olivemcgrath5231]

Option 2 looks great. Best of luck with the Engineer's visit. Hopefully they won't find any more issues

[@nicktyley1361]

Tin Roof the only way to go, I live in Tasmania Australia, most houses here have tin roof's. The sound of the rain is so good and nothing can get through it. Never cracks or breaks and you can walk on it, lasts for years..👍

[@morrigans_cottage]

I just love that you’ve got one with the big ideas and dreams, and one of you is more realistic and trying to make those dreams happen as realistically as possible! It’s just me renovating my cottage and I’m just wanting more and nobody is telling me to stop 😂😂

[@suziebelle1959]

Ash, invite Emily and Louise round to your cottage to give you some help/ideas with your walls xx

[@campervibe]

😂😂 oh yeah, my purse is firmly shut, Louise is always moaning at me 😂

[@morrigans_cottage]

@@suziebelle1959 they are more than welcome altho I’d say they have enough troublesome cottage on their hands

[@alidabotes6264]

😊😊😊

[@TheCoffeeBushKid]

We love our tin roofs in Australia. Once you’ve insulated it’s just a gentle soothing sound. Also easier if you ever have to get into the roof cavity for anything. Just unscrew a sheet and put it back again.

[@david-reason]

Guys my brain hurts! . . You will work it out over time . . . Personally, I would have preferred Portugal. Love from Bangkok.

[@valsilverlining7015]

A big glass panel in the snug, with the red door forming a shutter on the outside to keep you really snug.

[@ellenchapman5293]

Going with the idea of knocking through sounds like the best plan for your lifestyle, though I'd have to go for a really long island going down the kitchen, with provision for bar stools along one side, instead of the L shape -great for entertaining and food prep. You will decide what you like best and I'm sure it will be the right choice for you both :) Just keep posting, I look forward to watching your progress and how the grounded Lou interacts with the giddy Emily, you are such fun to watch x

[@campervibe]

She does bring me down to earth 😂

[@ellenchapman5293]

@@campervibe The balance seems about right with you both :) x

[@MsCripplex]

Option 3 with the ability of minor changes as things go along and funding is available. Your home needs structural repair and the funds available are needed to go outside the building you have now and you need to get professional help to know what is possible and safe. Adding to your home later is possible over time but financial assistance is possible over time and I know your dream home will happen Be Safe and take care of each other and your fur babies! I live in Vermont in the USA and there are always ways over time to make things work but plan financially .

[@wsu6679]

Option 2 sounds like a great use of existing structures (too bad you can’t add windows along the back wall to enjoy the Irish greenery/snow while sitting in a cozy living room with a fireplace). BUT, seems like option one offers the possibility to make the bathroom/utility room more cohesive with the house rather than a room sticking out the back…. hmmm so many possibilities. Love an L-shape kitchen with seating, I have one, love it! perhaps Emily gets a rolling island that can roll around to where needed or out of the way :)

[@campervibe]

It’s a hard choice for sure

[@tamzinphillips7892]

Let us know what the structural engineer says. 20 years ago I converted 2 stone shed into a 1 1/2 storey studio.... Unfortunately the whole thing had to be demolished and completely rebuilt because there were no foundations and the back wall was supporting the road.... We took good photos and the brick and stonework does look like what was there before.

[@campervibe]

Oh that’s a shame

[@fridaylake3259]

Option 2 !!!! knock down the wall, snug, tin roof! Win-Win

[@carolynandcocohaywood2638]

Hi Lou and Emily, I love both ideas but I think option 2 is the better idea. Lou could you use the lovely Red doors as interior doors, i.e one from the kitchen/diner to the snug and maybe leave the other one or use it for the extension. This way you could have very large non opening windows which I’m sure Emily would love. I feel doing option 3 be a waste of time and money as it would only be a stop gap that you really wouldn’t really be happy with and you would only have to redo anyway. Thanks for including us in these ideas, I’m loving joining you in this journey. I renovated my house and it’s frustrating but so worth it. Love to you both.❤❤

[@JoMckenna1]

Love option 2, makes use of the shed building and the flow will be great in your home. I would opt for an island rather than breakfast bar, as it will allow easier movement around the whole room and avoid a bottleneck at the end of the l shape. You could also then do full wall units with pantry cupboards on the existing kitchen wall including your fridge running under the new stair case. I also vote for the laundry, and why not include a dog wash station too? Nice warm wash place for AJ after muddy Irish walks 😊

[@campervibe]

The options, so many 😀😀

[@teresataylor9007]

Definitely option 2 , good old Emily ❤

[@madeljacky]

Going against the grain here but i would leave everything in place and repair what is there, its an old stone built cottage after all, its very very easy to pull stuff down but takes a lot of time and money to build up again to arrive back at almost the same place you started. Whatever you both decide i will still follow you with great interest

[@campervibe]

Very true and thanks

[@warreneoff7763]

Option #2 would be my preference. It covers all the bases without the expense of an addition.

[@tonyprice1526]

Replace the tin roof with slate sheets which are metal but look like slate. These are used on large buildings like supermarkets. I have used them and they go up fast and easy.

[@geoffcampbell7846]

Interesting times ahead Ladies. You've plenty of ideas already, and a thousand more on line, so my only advice is to start by taking the building back to stone, then you'll have a better idea of what's what. Take care. 👋🇬🇧🇪🇺🇺🇦

[@jmitch5161]

Loving the idea of a snug. Cosy winter evenings!

[@dalloway4570]

Hello again ! The second idea seems to be the best because you already have an existing structure next to the house. Also it gives you the opportunity to have a second bedroom upstairs. Concerning the wall between the two rooms you may have to put an IPN . I don’t know the name in english but it’s a steel boam to renforce when you decide to fall down à bearing wall. I hope my english is understandable . Eager to know your decision. Big hug to AJ and Summer a friend from Brittanny France

[@cheriesharp234]

It good to have some ideas to give to your architect, but also let them come up with some alternative ideas within you budget. Often you will be amazed what they come up with. With a why didnt we think of that!!! Its there job to make the most of what you have and can afford. Exciting times ahead. Xxx

[@rebeccabeaven9641]

Option 2, stick to the tin on the roof, do it as u can afford it, break it into stages. I'm 7 years in and still have no flooring, BUT I'm happy and it's paid for!

[@bitofun2]

Option 4. I wouldn't touch anything without a structural inspector on those hidden walls. All of them. Whole house wall inspection. Then , then only do one area at a time that matches your plans. Budget is always double or triple in construction. And in your case probably X squared..... If you tackle too much regrets in the future are guaranteed. I've seen my fair share of construction and renovation.

[@suejames6808]

Excellent advice 👍👍

[@Scottie-bg8hy]

Maybe you need to have a conversation with your solicitor, who in turn may need to have a chat with the surveyor who inspected the property before you bought it. This is worrying.

[@katekeough9819]

Not the home inspectors fault and or the homeowners they probably didn’t know just as the gals didn’t know A home inspector is only liable from paint to paint One can’t expect them to see with X-ray eyes behind walls as they said they knew there would be some problems but no one knew it was this intense

[@campervibe]

This is true, they can only do what they can see, they can not take parts of the walls down. We paid for extra surveys as well which were done to the best they could 🙂

[@davebayliss3142]

The surveyor has completely ruined their lives, he needs to be sued

[@davebayliss3142]

💯

[@cherylmartin8086]

I like the extension option mainly with windows for your own ‘bird hide’ and views. But it does make sense extending towards the back!

[@alireid5235]

Hi Girls Summer &AJ Can't believe what Emilies plans are remember I dropped you an email saying I have just renovated my property in Scotland I moved my house rooms around and my house is now a replica of Emilies plans Enjoy the renovation I was fed up doing mine but it is more than worth it Allie Reid Scotland UK 😊

[@rebeccadanaher1065]

I like option 2. It will work out cheaper in the short term, and you can always add an extension later on. The snug will be lovely in the wintertime.

[@spacemonkey200]

Option 2 please! Great idea.👍😂

[@Parachuter]

I have a tin roof that looks like tiles. It is quiet as the loft is insulated but in heavy rain I can hear the rain on it. I love that. Also the roof weight is little.

[@tiddlywinks456]

Option 2 and I like the idea of the bedroom upstairs, great for when Joanie comes to visit. I also like the L shape rather than an island, it gives more space in a kitchen but I know the islands are very popular. They can become dumping grounds for paperwork and crap and I know Emily likes things tidy. With an open stairs in your kitchen it could be a bit drafty in the winter and hard to keep the heat in the room. Good luck with it all and God bless your energy. X

[@campervibe]

I do like tidy places, although at the moment nothing is tidy 😂

[@mokelson177]

You will become a slave to the stone wall (we’ e been there) so you can plasterboard it out but put a ‘window’ in the show the wall behind. I know folks who have done that when they’ve found some nice old wallpaper. Love that you also called it the snug too, that was our lounge too. Em could have an island on wheels, so it can go against a wall when not in use but can come out ‘island style’ when in use. Still giving you storage space, you could also have a lift up shelf on the side.

[@danielrodriguez5349]

Option 2❣️❣️❣️ We have a tin roof which is not insulated and it’s fantastic! The steeper the pitch the quieter the rain… Many houses in Scotland, Greece, and around the world where there are multiple rooms that are all stoned and painted in lime and its fabulous! I am prejudice though, I cannot stand drywall. Thank you for sharing this wonderful journey with us, although I always worry for your privacy💕

[@petelumley1578]

Interesting. I think I would have the L shaped kitchen on the opposite wall with the sink where the window is, because the wall where you want to put the aga needs a lot of work with it leaning out. Also, the door to the snug can be near the window that is falling out. So basically a mirror image of what you want. Take care ladies.