Martijn Doolaard introduces his new adventure of building a homestead in the Italian Alps.
The property is located in Val Pellice, 1200 meters above sea level, with 2.3 hectares of land.
Property Details
The homestead consists of two historical stone cabins dating back to 1903.
The buildings are in a bare-bones condition, lacking plumbing, electricity, and toilets.
Renovation Plans
Martijn plans to renovate one cabin first, focusing on creating a kitchen and stove.
The goal is to complete major renovations by the following spring.
Initial Setup and Challenges
He discusses the logistics of moving tools and supplies to the site using a wheelbarrow.
Martijn shares his experience of setting up a solar system for electricity and the challenges of working in a remote area.
Water Connection Issues
There is a water connection from a nearby aqueduct, but the previous owner’s plumbing was poorly done, leading to potential freezing issues in winter.
Martijn plans to dig a trench to install new plumbing to prevent future problems.
Daily Life and Cooking
He describes the chaos of setting up his living space and cooking for the first time in the new environment.
Martijn mentions the need to be cautious about food storage due to potential mice.
Community Interaction
He meets a neighbor, an Austrian priest, who offers assistance and shares insights about living in the area.
✨ Key Takeaways
Embrace ChallengesMartijn's journey highlights the importance of embracing challenges and being prepared for unexpected issues when taking on a renovation project.
Community SupportBuilding relationships with neighbors can provide valuable support and resources during a new venture.
Planning and PreparationProper planning, especially regarding utilities like water and electricity, is crucial for a successful homestead project.
AdaptabilityThe ability to adapt to changing circumstances, such as weather and logistical challenges, is essential for living in a remote area.
🧠 Lessons Learned
Historical ValueInvesting in historical properties can be rewarding, but it often requires significant effort to restore and modernize them.
SustainabilityUtilizing solar energy and local water sources can contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle in a remote setting.
Patience and PersistenceRenovating a homestead is a slow process that requires patience and persistence, especially when dealing with unforeseen complications.
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