Eighteen months has passed since I inserted the key into the front door of what was an unloved, damp and dank cottage. Now she stands bright and cheery, full of love and a warm welcome to whomever knocks upon the little white front door. The living room is full of light, the large kitchen window frames the splendour of the harvests on the hills yonder; the high beamed ceiling gives greater air circulation and the warm colours of the soft furnishings that reflect the embers of the little corner fire offer tranquility and comfort. The mistress’ bedroom at the far end has been converted from a dark, dismal uninviting room into a large, airy room that allows one to relax in bed and take in the views to the north-east through a huge 3m picture window. French windows open out onto a bright sunny terrace the remnants of the old shed now support a large pergola with wisteria, jasmine and bourgonvilia climbing the wooden beams. The rusty railings upon which my lover and I leant on that cold October day, are now crisp white and draped with the purple flowers of a rampant Morning Glory. Flower beds and terracotta pots flourish with Geranium, Nasturtium, Gladioli, Lavender and Roses. The ever practical, blue tiled bathroom is now a haven for those who love to either shower or soak away in luxury. A spacious wet-room area of grey ceramic tiling from which protrudes a huge rain-shower contrasts with the bathing room of lighter grey-washed soft wood paneling and luxury roll-top bath. Red and orange candles reflecting in the large mirrors compliment the large orange bath-sheets that hang on the warm towel rail. With love, sweat and many tears of frustration and three times the original costs, the job is done! My cottage renovation is complete. Welcome to “La Casita” my little home on the Silver Coast of Portugal.
Jeannie Pontet
June 2009
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