Water Tower Transformation: A Couple Takes on the Challenging Task of Turning a Water Tower into Their Family Residence, as Documented on Grand Designs
In the heart of Northamptonshire, a unique home renovation project is underway. Adam, a plumber, and Tassy, a banker, have embarked on a daring mission to transform a historic water tower into their dream home. The couple purchased the structure for £100,000, and have since moved onsite to bring their vision to life.
After five years of hard work, Adam and Tassy have managed to complete the first two floors. However, the journey has not been without challenges. The water tower, originally built to supply water to a local piano factory, boasts a concrete 20m column and a massive interior space of 550 square meters. The couple's plans to retrofit the tower have been met with certain obstacles, particularly in regards to noise pollution.
A nearby electricity substation has posed a significant challenge in meeting local planning regulations. To combat this issue, Adam constructed a concrete wall to reduce noise by 8 decibels. The couple also plans to utilize glazing and additional soundproofing techniques to further lower the noise levels.
The project has faced another critical challenge regarding noise pollution, as excessive noise can pose health risks to occupiers, and noise levels can only be assessed after the build is fully completed. Legally, the bedrooms needed to maintain a noise level below 30 decibels at night for the building to be deemed habitable.
Despite these challenges, the couple's determination remains unwavering. They aim to add a snug, bedroom, and entrance to the first floor while maintaining the tower's concrete aesthetic. More concrete is planned to be poured for the first floor, where three more bedrooms, a bathroom, and a secret room for the kids will be installed. The entire third floor will make up the master bedroom and en suite bathroom.
The circular staircase in the water tower will feature concrete walls and geometric patterns, and will also include three slides and a fireman's pole. Kevin McCloud, host of Grand Designs, has likened replacing the concrete floor to "David vs Goliath," predicting it will take longer than expected due to the presence of steel underneath. However, he has praised the couple's perseverance, stating that he believes they will finish the retrofit.
Tassy, motivated by the idea of doing something unconventional and exciting, as opposed to something cheaper and easier, has sold their house to give themselves more funds for the project. The couple's plans are considered "crazy" by Kevin McCloud, who is amazed at their resilience to keep persevering with their unique project. Adam, in true British wit, has given some interesting advice for those looking to self-build: "Don't buy a b****y water tower."
As the renovation continues, the couple's dream home takes shape, one concrete pour and slide at a time. The final product is sure to be a testament to their hard work and dedication, and a unique addition to the Northamptonshire landscape.
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