Our self-build journey was inspired by a desire to create a unique and personalised retreat that reflected our vision and values. We wanted to build something that offered tranquility and natural beauty, a true escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The project has taken 17 years so far, and we are still building and improving things. We laid every stone and planted every plant ourselves, ensuring that each detail reflects our dedication and passion.

Mark had some experience in building but not enough to build a house from scratch—or so he thought. Fortunately, we had an amazing architect, Francisco, who drew all the plans. Over the years, as circumstances and finances changed, we had to build much of it ourselves to cover the costs.

Some of the biggest challenges included managing the extensive renovations required for a structure built in 1875, learning construction techniques, and balancing the project with our personal lives. Each challenge taught us valuable lessons and made the end result even more rewarding.

We used a combination of traditional and modern materials and techniques. Natural stone, granite, and sustainable materials were key components, ensuring the structure was both beautiful and environmentally friendly.

What budget? That went out the window. We had no idea about budgeting and couldn’t really stick to one. We built whenever we had the funds at the time. Mark often quoted bit by bit, while Lorraine did the design. The two of them worked hand in hand throughout the entire process.

Our advice would be to stay patient, be prepared for challenges, and stay passionate about your vision. Research thoroughly, seek advice when needed, and enjoy the journey. The process is as important as the final result.

Handling planning permissions and regulations required thorough research and regular consultations with local authorities. Ensuring all documentation was in order and adhering to local building codes was critical to the project's success.

The most rewarding part has been seeing our vision come to life and sharing it with guests who appreciate the beauty and tranquility of our retreat. Knowing we built it with our own hands adds a special sense of accomplishment and pride.

Absolutely! We love sharing our story with guests and often provide tours of the property, highlighting the transformation from the original ruin to the stunning retreat it is today. It’s a story of passion, perseverance, and love.