From Collapsed Walls to Blooming Gardens: The Journey of Riverbank Cottage
- dannijoebob
- Feb 20, 2024
- 2 min read
Hello readers!
It feels like just yesterday when Joe and I embarked on the exhilarating journey of renovating our beloved 19th-century gem, ‘Riverbank Cottage’. You might remember the tale of our unexpected discovery beneath the worn carpets – the treasure trove of flagstone floors. Little did we know, however, that our cottage had more surprises in store for us.
Picture this: a crisp morning by the riverside, the air filled with anticipation and the scent of fresh blooms (actually it was more like musty soil). That was the scene at Riverbank Cottage when fate decided to test our resolve once again. This time, it was the old stone walls bearing the weight of time that decided to reveal their secrets.
As we delved deeper into the renovation process, we noticed ominous cracks snaking their way through one of the cottage's stone walls. Ignoring the warning signs wasn't an option, and soon, a section of the wall decided to take matters into its own hands – quite literally – and collapsed before our eyes.
Now, you might think this would dampen our spirits, but true to our resilient nature, Joe and I saw it as an opportunity rather than a setback. With the collapsed stones strewn across the "lounge" like pieces of a forgotten puzzle, inspiration struck.
We decided to turn this mishap into a masterpiece, utilising the stones from the collapsed wall to craft a little feature in the burgeoning garden. With determination and a touch of creativity, we meticulously stacked and arranged the stones, weaving together a new chapter in Riverbank Cottage's story.
But that wasn't the only transformation taking place. Remember those trusty flagstone floors that once graced the interior of our cottage? Well, they found a new purpose as part of a charming patio in our blossoming garden. Every step taken on those weathered stones now echoes the journey of Riverbank Cottage itself – a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the beauty of repurposing.
And now, we are thrilled to announce that our labour of love has reached its fruition. After 15 months of unwavering dedication and countless trials and tribulations, Riverbank Cottage stands not just as a mere structure but as a sanctuary for weary travellers seeking solace by the riverside.
As we fling open the doors of Riverbank Cottage to welcome our very first guests, we do so with hearts full of pride and gratitude. A journey filled with challenges, yes, but also with immeasurable joy and fulfilment.
So, come one, come all, and experience the magic of Riverbank Cottage for yourselves. Let the tales of old stones and newfound gardens inspire you as they have inspired us. After all, in the embrace of history and nature, there's always room for one more story to unfold.
Before and Afters:
Kitchen:
Bathroom:
Fireplace:
Lounge:
Upstairs:
Outside:
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