A couple from a small village in north Wales near Conwy have transformed a tired period house into their dream home, relying heavily on YouTube tutorials and a 'save and do' approach. Sharon and Richard purchased the house at auction after Sharon felt an unexplained connection to it for years. The property had no central heating, rotten sash windows, and many other issues, but the couple saw its potential.
Renovation Challenges and YouTube as a Lifeline
Sharon, a 43-year-old sales and marketing executive, admitted they naively thought the renovation would be straightforward, but the Covid-19 pandemic caused material prices to escalate. The couple ended up doing about 95% of the work themselves because they could not find tradespeople. 'YouTube is going to be our best friend,' Sharon recalled. They lived in the house for a year before starting any work to understand its flow and light patterns.
The renovation was a 'proper labour of love,' with many challenging moments, including a burst water pipe that ruined fresh plaster. 'I remember we both just stood there, we were so defeated at that point. But then we just turned the water off and went to the pub,' Sharon said. Despite the difficulties, the couple grew together and remained a perfect team.
Design Inspiration from Nature
Sharon described her evolving style as minimalist mixed with fun, using muted tones with splashes of colour and pattern. The house is filled with plants and natural materials like wood, wicker, velvet, and wool, drawing inspiration from the surrounding countryside. Her favourite space is the pantry, which features leopard print wallpaper for a touch of visual fun.
Unexpected TV Fame
The couple never planned to appear on television, but when a producer from BBC Cymru Wales' property show Wales' Home of the Year contacted them, Sharon decided to say yes. They had a room plastered just two weeks before the film crew arrived. 'It really gave us a kick up the derrière to get the snagging done,' she said. The episode aired, and the couple were named regional winners for north west Wales, a fact that still shocks Sharon. 'I couldn't believe it. We have worked so hard on this house for so long... that's why I cried,' she said.
Winning and Looking Ahead
The couple's home is now shortlisted for the grand final of Wales' Home of the Year, due to be broadcast on BBC Cymru Wales at the end of July. Sharon and Richard continue to share their renovation journey on Instagram @renovating_cartrefle.
