Swimming pool

I met the swimming pool supplier, Roberto Agnesani, in May 2008 and it didn't take long to agree a style, dimensions and extras.

We decided upon an 8m by 4m level floor pool with steps in one corner and wall lights diagonally opposite to each other.

Whilst not having a deep end, the advantages of better in-pool game play and enhanced safety for children outweigh the disadvatages.

Before the pool structure was built we first needed to create an enclosure and this was achieved by using the lower wall.

This first picture shows the wall from the opposite end of the plot with the pool to be situated at the far end.

Earth removal then followed. The next picture clearly demonstrates the size of the wall and scope of the project.

Here is the pool structure before filling, early August 2008.

The contractor kindly supplied some astroturf to soften the bare concrete surround.

This is the pool now, August 2009. End and rear wall (complete with lights) and pool paving completed.

Kitchen

During the spring of 2008 I had been investigating kitchens. Escalating costs and a worsening exchange rate had led me to consider purchasing a flat pack from the 'local' Ikea in Genoa (a 2 hour drive away).

Michelle, quite understandably, baulked at the idea and instead I sourced a quality Euromobil kitchen from Bordighera based Furniture shop Piccon al Bicocco. No skimping on cost then!

All elements and appliances chosen by yours truly!

Very pleased with the effort even if it has resulted in comments like 'it's better than the one at home'!

Before installation.

After installation, July 2008, Rachael modelling during our first stay, August 2008.

Fireplace!

We were keen to have a fireplace but had little idea as to what style or type. Michelle then saw the following picture in a magazine which we then used for the theme.

Our lounge is a little taller than the one in the picture and we were keen to have some alcoves each side.

The fireplace comes as a ready built unit that was installed on a brick plinth to raise it to the required height. Supports built at each end to support a beam.

The next phase invoved the installation of the Chestnut (castagno) beam running the width of the room.

This is the room with the fireplace as it is now. The fireplace is functional but still not quite complete as it is missing the stone surround to the opening and a nice wicker log basket beneath!

Sunken bath!

Okay, what can one say!

What started off as a light hearted comment made by Michelle to Paolo (our Architect) turned into this!

A slightly extravagant Travertine marble lined sunken bath!

At least we made good use of the split level!

All stages of construction are shown. Firstly concrete blocks were set to create a solid frame, on which the tap could be mounted, and a step down. The blocks against the wall, once tiled, subsequently doubled up as a ledge.

With the block work in and drain installed the opening was then insulated. The hole in the wall on the right will be used for lighting.

Next the opening has a reinforced mesh applied and is then screeded ready for tiling.

Tiling, plumbing and lighting complete! We even used some glass blocks as dividing wall removing the need for a shower (just visible on the left wall) curtain.

Glass block wall!

June 2008.

This could have turned out to be disaster but we took the risk and are really pleased with the result!

Not only is it a unique feature but is practical too taking natural light through to the 'anti-bagno' area behind the wall.

More pictures of this later in the BLOG!

Partitioning - internals taking shape

With the weather warm at the end of May, beginning of June 2008 work continued at a pace and it wasn't long before the internal walls were up, board and filled.

This first picture shows the view towards the enod of the lounge where, later, will be constructed the fireplace.

No glass block wall - yet!

This picture shows the 'front' door with a guest bedroom door adjacent on the right and utility room door down the steps on the left.