You are legend, mate......absolute legend. Don't worry about UA-cam pressure, don't worry about mistakes and remember what Albert Einstein said : "Failure is an achievement in progress" (great one isn't it?)
I agree, this is my favorite channel on UA-cam. You’re aspirational to me, I renovate homes here in the US but I look forward to a vacation/ retirement home elsewhere. Your channel is down to earth and very relatable, wishing you the best as you continue!
I did some plastering myself, but the magic comes when you go over it with a wet/damp sponge when it's almost dry. Not sure if you did this, but then you smooth out all the uneven parts. Nice job, love your videos!!
I'd love one but the budget has been allocated for the short term. I am looking into a few options and thinking of changing my car or adding a pull bar for a trailer. Its a buy / build as I go budget so it will get there.
@@threeacresofmarche I was about to suggest a trailer. Would be so useful. Unfortunately when you need it most is now. Wonder if anyone in the local community could lend or rent you one
The white paint looks really good, it definitely softens the look. Great job with the plastering, I can't imagine how your shoulders must feel after a whole bag.👍
You could use that tracker seat as a toilet seat in your 1 euro a night B&B. It's always great to recycle & it should help keep the cost down. Just a thought. 😉
I found your channel two days ago and now I reached the latest video. I'm loving your channel. You are showing the real work, not just half a year in 20 minutes. I'd follow real time, even if you didn't speak a word.
@@threeacresofmarcheHi, maybe if can invest in a carage that you would attach-it in back of your car / like pick-up to transport ( bricks) or whatever else from the road to the house !! An idea it would help you less leg work. Nice job. Ciao 🇮🇹🇺🇸
Good effort. I've done this sort of thing a couple of times and can tell anyone who''s considering it... it's a big job, but you can do it. The key is to break down any given job into small parts, that way it's far less intimidating and gives a sense of achievement every time another step is finished. Good channel, well worth watching.
Hi Richard, Wow you’ve achieved a lot ! Great job plastering the walls ! My late father- in -law & his brothers, worked as team of solid plasters, in and around Manchester they did all the fancy mouldings,ceiling rose,cornice ect by hand !
Glad you enjoyed Urbino - so happy to see it's not changed so much since I was a student there 34 years ago. Especially the little place down the steps selling pizza by the slice. It snowed there 5 times the winter I was there....and the student residences weren't particularly well heated. But I loved it.
@@threeacresofmarche It surely did....the student residences were on top of one hill, the university on top of another and quite a dip between the two......I had a nice flat belly and good thighs!
Thanks for another great video. You have become one of my favourites UA-camrs.....practical while having a good attitude towards the ups and downs of renovating in a foreign country. That makes you relatable to so many. Great to see your Italy experience cannot be all work and no play. That's impossible in that place and inspires others to consider moving to Italy. Urbino looks amazing. Would love to know what you eat when out and about.
Thanks for the kind words @yvanapantino273 . I am still in that long honeymoon stage so all food is always Italian. I do grab the odd Poke Bowl when out and about but 99% of the time it will be some form of Italian meal or snack. The deli bars in supermakets are amazing.
Hello Richard! We are in the process of buying a 70's villa near Monteprandone. Close to San Benedetto del Tronto. We love the Marche region. Lots of cosmetic renos tp do. I would love to do them myself but kid in school back in Canada. It's coming along great I am jealous.
Just binged it all over the last 2 days while I’m stuck in my back bedroom hand sewing blackout drapes in my Coachella Valley, California, fixer upper due to half of my brand new air con system deciding to die on me during 115F+ temps and first repairman is 3 days out. Absolutely love everything about your channel…you do you. Thanks for keeping me company. From one DIY’er to another - rock on!👍
The base of the fireplace looks great. I was wondering how those uneven edges would look but you’ve done it nicely. I quite liked the chalky aspect of the first coat of white paint on the bricks. If that’s something you liked too I guess you could sand back some of the top layers to ‘antique’ it. Went well with the aged base tiles. No idea really how to do that. Poss a chemical reaction would work with acetone of sorts. But just guessing. Well done.
Thanks @jennichristie5264 . It did look good with one or two coats but as it all stated to come together then it needed more white to make it look cleaner. It dired very patchy and highlighted some ugly bits. Maybe in another spot over a better brick that chalky look would be great.😊
The appeal of watching you and your Italian Villa renovation is how relatable you are. You are basically the amateur doing your best and inspiring people like me to think, you know I could give that a go. I am embarking on a new life in Spain, with the view in a couple of years to buy a fixer up property in a rural Spanish location, you are giving me confidence to go for it. Hard work but so satisfying I bet as you make slow but steady progress. As I watched you move the tiles, I kept thinking, why not use the car, but you answered that, "do not want to get it dirty", id have used my car ha but I am a little lazier. Thanks for this upload.
Hello Robert, when I saw you mix that full bag of plaster I thought this guy must have done this before or he is going to learn real fast. Your finished walls didn’t look bad, great recovery. That was crazy having to wheel those tiles up to the house. They were unfinished, when installing you need to keep a pale with clean water and a sponge close by for wipe down to prevent them from getting stained with the mortar. You should try sealing the tiles before grouting it would make your life a lot easier. The sizing on the terracotta looked good which should make the layout easier. Good luck with the project. By the way the fire place is coming out better than I thought it would. Keep up the good work and thanks for another good video.
HI @dono9879 . Yep - that full bag was a lesson! The area by the house is quite tight and the overhanging Olive trees are too nice to cut back so the big truck that arrived could only reverse down to where it was flat enough to drop off safely. Good idea to seal them before fitting.👍
RICH RICH RICH? Stop stressin' What a great! vid. That fireplace is gonna be a treat. Wow ,plastering was good. it is coming together just beaut. thanks for the scenic tour, what a great spot you've pick . Cheers, keep at it. Big plus for you next please
Thanks @eziotaddeo1726 . The stress is easing as I get more into it. The finish is what makes a place so first time doing most of these jobs is fun but a worry that it won't go to plan. Only one way to find out I suppose....just get on with it!😁
Wow! Urbino! It's my city, hehe..i live not very far from it, not near but a bus ride gets me there once a month to get free beef bones, tallow and organ meat from the superb and friendly butcher, also all meat sourced from local farms and most are organic! Yep, urbino is the best, the birthplace of the great Raffaello❤❤
And I bought my very small old stone house in this region, not far from this magnificent city. It was very cheap, what I paid for it won't get you a new car!, but that was pure luck as properties are very expensive here.
Thought we’d had our last trip to Italy to visit family and beautiful places. Then we found your channel. Another trip may be in the works. Of course living in Italy can be difficult even for Italians. Loving your videos, your amazing work, your honesty, and your humor.
Hi Richard, just to throw a cat amongst the pigeons, you could bag the brick on the fire place (a thin coat of render so you can still see the pattern) I crack myself up talking to the screen to let you know about your batter 😂 the 13.5-14.5 is a guide as the batter will mix differently in different humidities, it’s a lot like baking, you’ve done a great job so far. Ps, I’m a happy camper as we finally have the plumbing done in the bathroom & a second Loo again wwooooohhoooooooo, we just need the glass screen for the shower/tub & the towel rails. ❤Shell
Oh boy, are you going to own that floor, Richard! 😂. ....but that's what creates the value and allows you to appreciate the finished floor all the more 👍😊 Well done!
I think that the floor and a few exposed walls are what make these places pop. When viewing houses it was always the first thing that jumps out as being Oh WOW or rip that out day one!!😂
Thanks @jazstar4622 While I learn a lot from UA-cam I suppose it makes sense to share the learning as I go. I hope things imrove step by step...no better lesson than jumping in at the deep end!😂
Get a simple basic trailer, and arrange for a hook on your car. Hauling brick tiles on your farm and shopping at local builders market will become a breeze.
I am in two minds to change the car. A tow bar for that car is nearly as much as those tiles! It spending on soon so its either keep it to take it to 200k miles or sell it soon for one with a tow bar.👍
@@threeacresofmarche I would say, that if you can somewhat reasonably sell it now - do it. You really need a workhorse there, and Audi will not ever be one.
Portare tutte quelle mattonelle in terracotta è un grande allenamento! Complimenti per tutto e.. ho visto che hai messo i guanti contro gli scorpioni. Ottimo .-)
When you said, it's 4 o'clock, I thought it must be wine time! 🍷You worked hard. I do admire your steadfastness. I look forward to your videos. Well done, Richard 😊
That is my plan B if the stone does not come out very well. It should be easy to undo if that is the case and there is a marble place at the end of my road!👍
Looking great! The new red clay tiles will make a big difference. Years ago I secured 1600 square feet of Saltillo tiles in Mexico and trucked them back to the states. Through trial and error I learned one thing: seal the tiles first before you lay them. Otherwise you end up with horrendous splotches from the grout and underlayment concrete and it’s a nightmare to clean up from the tiles surface. Just my two cents but hopefully make the install go a lot smoother for you!
Thanks @michaelrich555 . A few have suggested that but I appreciate you taking the time to write with your first hand experience. I will seal them first for sure, Thanks for the tip.
I really enjoy your videos. I cringe at the amount of "manual labor" you go through. I lived in Northern Italy and have seen many of the processes you go through (done by Italians). I now live in California, and workers here certainly don't have the willingness to work as Europeans do. Your progress is amazing, keep up your fine job.
I'm sure if I could afford all the kit, machinery and tools I would get them and use them. The budget is driving this for the short term and I think I need to save for a decent machine that will help me manage the field and land.😊
Psst! You could make the tractor seat into a rustic light fitting backing on one of your out buildings! Just a suggestion. I can see it in my head...! Greetings from a chilly wintery Johannesburg, South Africa😊
Its getting there slowly. Its such a big subject to learn! Great fun though when the footage is semi planned. Its the bag of all sorts that is still really hard to make something of.🤦♂️
Love your videos! My husband grew up in Marche you need to check out San Benedetto del Toronto and Grottamare! (Great seafood at Ancora-spelling might not be perfect) 😂 we dream of doing this one day! You must have burnt some serious cals moving all that with the wheelbarrow! Could have done it in a few trips with the car though 😅 x
HI @rachelstroe606 . The car would have been a right mess as it was in between rain showers. Besides - that fresh air is worth it. It saved me going for a run that day also. 😎 Best wishes to you both. I hope you find your gem one day.😊
Hello! 0:47 I check UA-cam regularly to see if you’ve posted something. Born in Canada, my parents both came from le Marche, very close to where you are renovating. My mom comes from San Vito, comune di San Lorenzo and my dad was born in Urbino! I have many relatives in Marotta near Senigallia, Pesaro, Fano and Fossombrone. Needless to say, I therefore have a vested interest in your program. Love to see how you work tirelessly with the reward of a good bottle of red while watching the sunset at the end of the day. Hoping to find a place like yours in that beautiful, unspoiled well kept secret part of the world! Can’t wait for your next episode- challenges that you tackle with your creative solutions! Tiziana
Thank you Tiziana, lovely that you have so much family around these parts that can help you find a house and settle here quickly. It is a wonderful place to live. Best wishes.
@@threeacresofmarche love your channel. I have 4 kids at home in Chicago and Nashville. I made 3 of the 4 study in Rome. I did as well years ago and have been to Italy dozens of times. While a great place in Rome would be a dream, not that rich. Just retired. Trying to figure out where I could by with some land. Have never looked where you are. I’d like easy access to trains for sure. Amazed what you an get for the price as I’m used to Chicago area prices.
Richard, mix half a bucket each time. Add plaster to the water and mix until it’s the right consistency. Put a coat on and one straight on top. Clean the tools in between each time. Use a wet brush , flick water on at the end and smooth it off when it’s nearly gone off. . When the bag went in I thought .. this is brave😁👍👏👏👏maybe that’s different than the British product??
Thanks. Its that consistency part that only comes by doing it a few times to know what works. I need to add more water as I go. Yes, oddly, this is a different product that I thought it was going to be. Maybe I bought the wrong one....it looks good on though.👍
@@threeacresofmarcheyour channel is great Richard. The combination of your personality, grafting and the beautiful Italian scenery make a great channel👍🇬🇧☀️☀️
You need a side by side/atv and a little trailer, maybe a snow plow. At least a trailer for your car. Why didn't you use your car to move the tiles? Curious? Nice tiles !!!
The mess from the tiles and the mud (rain showers that day). I'd love a trailer but may need to wait until I change my car so to not throw good money after bad. I need to save for a machine that will help with the land first.😊
Hi @wayneevans5050 paying to have what part done? My budget is tight and prices that I have been quoted for help have been eyewatering. I am saving for machinery that will help me look after the land so these small jobs that I can do on my own are ok. Part of the fun and experience also.👍
The blue tiles are really beautiful, I'm not sure about the stones in the fire place, sorry (but it's not quite finished yet of course) The plastering looks very good and a beautiful setting in Marche 👍
As a former builder(In a previous life) and a love for Italia(there's no letter Y in the Italian language).I've watched your journey from day 1 and you're doing an an amazing job so far.Anyway, quick tip regarding the delivery of those tiles about a mile from the house!....next time,stick them in the car boot and save a lot of time and more importantly energy!Keep up the good work.
Thanks @cnolan3855 . I did not want to mess the car up with mud and brick dust - it was rain showers that day so quite messy. Besides, it was not that hard and not that far really (3000 steps😂). I enjoy being outside so its ok.
Hi Rebecca is that the guy that made art from a toilet?! 😂 I don't have that much vision to see a tractor seat on a wall but if you have any suggestions I would consider it. 👍😁
@@threeacresofmarche Yep, that’s the guy. Amongst his many other art works he utilised items that he thought had sculptural value plus he enjoyed annoying the art world who thought it outrageous. 🙃 Old metal tractor seats are beautifully designed and if hung on a wall the form is visually accessible. Any lighting around it would cast interesting shadows, especially if on a plain wall. Plus of course the patina of the rust and old paint would tie in well with your rustic exposed bricks… The aged wooden plank, the wine casks and now the tractor seat- you have a treasure trove of artefacts there!!! 😍😍😂
😂 I couldn’t help yelling “‘NO!!!” when you poured the whole bag in 🫣 THEN I couldn’t quit laughing when you learned a life lesson. Some of us like to learn the hard way! Been watching from the beginning from Dallas, Texas. Yes. Not more than 1/2 a bag and add water as you go until consistency right. Varies by humidity and temperatures.
Hi Richard, would save you a lot of work and effort, if you had the barrow much closer to your work and also put the bags of cement and plaster on a raised platform so as not to do a dead man's lift off the floor. K.H.
Great video Richard Your walls and fireplace is so beautiful love the bricks and blue tile If seat is still available I would pay postage Beautiful city you went too Love the fort and older buildings Thanks for always sharing interesting things Take care and see you in next video ❤❤❤❤❤❤
use your car to transport the tile up the drive? you could layer in tile with blankets to protect the car interior and the tile from cracking in case of bumps. no need to wheel barrow! loving your property and build. thanks for sharing these videos.
HI @TimFrancis-hu8ge I considered this but did not want to be driving, reversing, messing up the car (even more). It was enjoyable for the view and exercise.😁
What are your work colleagues saying to you about your social media "fame"? 😀 You come over as a really nice guy, with a good attitude of getting stuck in, and Im impressed with you learning house renovation and YT/video editing skills at the same time. Good job on both. P.s. Also , are your kids proud or embarrassed? 😅
Fame!😂 Hardly. To be honest - they don't watch it. I did not tell anyone when I started the channel. I only talked about it to my daughters. One or two have found it as they are researching buying abroad. Otherwise it still feels like a secret. 😊 My daughters are good with it all. We are talking about doing a RAW Q&A where people ask them questions...😬😂
Well done Richard! It looks really great, all coming together. When I lived in Puerto Rico for four years,( just recently left) and deliveries needed to happen, it was common practice to provide a google pin address. Is that not something they would use in Corinaldo, Le Marche? I used to provide the pin address and a photo of the house to the driver. Regardless, you seemed to work it out in the long run. Cheers and have a great week. If you're a football fan, good luck to England in the Euro Cup final. 🤩⚽🏡🌻
Hi @lisasbeautifuljourney I did try but the people you send that to are different to the driver. Then, when I sent it to the driver as he was lost the pin on his phone / map took him to a house up the road!😂 As they get to know me I am sure it will all work out....or I get a trailer.🤞
@@threeacresofmarche Of course, that’s understandable. On top of that, lost in translation too, right? All I can say is good for you, lots of extra exercise getting all of those moved. Well done all around on the renovation. 👏🏼 Nobody will ever truly understand how massive a job a renovation is until you are in it, not to mention the amount of time it takes. Have a lovely and enjoyable weekend ☀️🌊🍷
At least u ain’t getting fleeced on da Vino, Richard! Do yourself a favour and buy a quad-bike and trailer for moving materials around - you are worth it mate!😂
Thanks @masherida . The budget is stretched at the moment and I need to save for something that will help me with the land. I'd love more tools and machinery but I simply can't stretch for it yet. Besides, it did not take long and it was great to be outside. A few barrow fulls doesnt wear someone out and it saved me going for a run that day. All good.😊
I'd love to get a trailer but am waiting until I change my car to one with a tow bar. The tow bars fitted on that car are nearly as much as that flooring was!!! It can wait. It was not that hard to move.😊
@@threeacresofmarche Let's be honest. You enjoy working on the house and you will always have projects which require tools and materials. Have you considered buying a beater van and keeping it there? Something old and inexpensive which can carry some weight and tow a little trailer. You would have much more flexibility and you would not kill your own car or a rental one. And please use your four wheeled little cart as much as possible as opposed to the wheelbarrow. (It would be better if you had a four wheeled cart with solid walls and floor instead of a mesh, but what you have will work too). The four wheeled cart is as versatile as the wheelbarrow but much more stable. It avoids the risk of tipping literally, which is what will kill your back, especially on uneven surfaces. You pull your back and you cannot work on the house until it heals. How do I know? Many, many house renovations.... and herniated disks. If your body does not work, nothing gets done!
Excellent episode! Your progress on the house is really showing. Here's a recommendation for a leisure moment: Likely available in your area, a lovely chianti classico: Primata Fattoria di Castelvecchi, Capotondo. All of that is on the label but I think the Castelvecchi is the key name.
Love your videos, the mistakes are part of being human, no pretence, just pure enthusiam. The room is starting to look really good. With the blue tile accents it will look awesome. Wondering if the floor tile is porous or not. BTW don't compare yourself to Martijn, he's just too worried about appearances, I like the priest's videos much better..
I should watch the priests videos - a few have mentioned him to me. 😂 The tiles - yes they are porous. A few top tips coming in suggest to seal them before laying them and then seal them again. They can get marked and stained when catching a splash or spec of cenment / tile adhesive.
It was 3:40pm on Saturday afternoon when you cracked that bottle of red and Im smacking my lips and thinking about the bottles I have in the kitchen 🤔 You are a bad influence Richard 😉 (No you're not, Im weak and will use any excuse to relax with a nice red 😂) Now my shifting of blame aside, For a first attempt the plaster turned out amazing (even though I did laugh at your applied with a spoon comment), your fireplace is coming together beautifully and I honestly can wait to see those stunning blue tiles against the grouted base in the fireplace and the white walls. Stay safe sir, see you next week. Off to open that bottle of red now, Slainte Mhath / Salute 🍷
Ciao! A tip: drink local wine from Marche. Rosso Conero DOC, Lacrima di Morro d’Alba DOC, Rosso Piceno o Piceno DOC. And white wine: Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi DOC, Verdicchio di Matelica DOC, Passerina DOC, Pecorino DOC, Falerio DOC 🍷🍾they are not expensive
Thank you @giovannellafalchetti703 I should make a plan to visit all of these cantina's.👍 Are you local and could you help point me to where they are located? I would really apprciate any help. Thanks.
You are legend, mate......absolute legend. Don't worry about UA-cam pressure, don't worry about mistakes and remember what Albert Einstein said : "Failure is an achievement in progress" (great one isn't it?)
I agree, this is my favorite channel on UA-cam. You’re aspirational to me, I renovate homes here in the US but I look forward to a vacation/ retirement home elsewhere. Your channel is down to earth and very relatable, wishing you the best as you continue!
I like that. Thank you!
That's very kind of you to say. I really appreciate all of the support.
I did some plastering myself, but the magic comes when you go over it with a wet/damp sponge when it's almost dry. Not sure if you did this, but then you smooth out all the uneven parts.
Nice job, love your videos!!
Your videos are so full of authenticity, humour and hard graft. What an infectious combination. Thank you.
Thanks for watching @iancox9765
I did works here in my house and the workers had special light to see what the appearances of walls were…
Well, I admire what you are doing - I couldn’t do nothing of this!
Thank you @brandaotania
The fireplace looks great, the blue tiles are gorgeous! The town tour was lovely! Thanks for the entertaining vlog!
You’re learning as you go. Things will get easier as you gain the experience. I’d say it’s worth the effort.
Richard, an ATV with a detachable trailer would help you tremendously. 😊
Agree!!
I'd love one but the budget has been allocated for the short term. I am looking into a few options and thinking of changing my car or adding a pull bar for a trailer. Its a buy / build as I go budget so it will get there.
@@threeacresofmarche I was about to suggest a trailer. Would be so useful. Unfortunately when you need it most is now. Wonder if anyone in the local community could lend or rent you one
That was impressive plastering
😂 very kind
The white paint looks really good, it definitely softens the look. Great job with the plastering, I can't imagine how your shoulders must feel after a whole bag.👍
It was a stretch, thats for sure! This thing keeps you fit and active. Never doing a full bag again though!😂
Urbino - absolutely wonderful 🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩
I will head back there I'm sure and give it more time. It was great.
Remember, you need to seal the tiles after installation.
Thanks @michellewilliamson449 . Some good tips suggest doing it before also to save any stains when fitting.👍
You could use that tracker seat as a toilet seat in your 1 euro a night B&B. It's always great to recycle & it should help keep the cost down. Just a thought. 😉
Genius idea ! Could be cold but what would they expect for a euro!😂
I found your channel two days ago and now I reached the latest video. I'm loving your channel. You are showing the real work, not just half a year in 20 minutes. I'd follow real time, even if you didn't speak a word.
Thanks for the bing watch @karlakh . I can only manage a video every two weeks these days, sorry. Much more to come though!😊👍
“Real time” - You could make it happen but might get arrested for stalking 😀
@@threeacresofmarcheHi, maybe if can invest in a carage that you would attach-it in back of your car / like pick-up to transport ( bricks) or whatever else from the road to the house !! An idea it would help you less leg work. Nice job. Ciao 🇮🇹🇺🇸
@@Del213 Just the work Del, just the work ;)
Marche looks beautiful. Best wishes
Great choice for the floor tiles, it's going to be such a difference from what is there, much more traditional.👍
Thanks Richard!!! I've enjoyed it! 😉 Don't always comment, but I look forward to every new chapter 😊
Thanks for watching and taking the time.
Can't wait to see how it looks next week, love the way the base turned out.👍
Thanks @neutonrenda2303
great long video, u got so much done ,well done ,it will look amazing ,
Thanks @user-ww1yv8ue8p
Ciao Richard 😊😊😊, buon giorno da una nuvolosa e calda Genova, in pausa pranzo❤
P.s. a me piacevano le musiche
Grazie 🙌
I love the different shades of blue of the floor tiles gorgeous
Good effort. I've done this sort of thing a couple of times and can tell anyone who''s considering it... it's a big job, but you can do it. The key is to break down any given job into small parts, that way it's far less intimidating and gives a sense of achievement every time another step is finished. Good channel, well worth watching.
Thank you @ginojaco
Hi Richard, great video as ever, you work so hard. Keep them coming. Cheers Tony 🇬🇧
Thanks @anthonytodd3408 . Plenty more to come!👍
"Chucked on with a spoon," ha! I enjoy watching your progress and adventures. Looks great! All the best.
I hope that the person that did it wasnt watching!! It looks great bumpy and lumpy.😂
Hi Richard, Wow you’ve achieved a lot ! Great job plastering the walls !
My late father- in -law & his brothers, worked as team of solid plasters, in and around Manchester they did all the fancy mouldings,ceiling rose,cornice ect by hand !
Thank you. I would love to learn that - these new 'make it look like a stone wall' rendering jobs looks amazing.
You did a nice job on the tiles😅
Thanks @miriammuskal5402🙌
Glad you enjoyed Urbino - so happy to see it's not changed so much since I was a student there 34 years ago. Especially the little place down the steps selling pizza by the slice. It snowed there 5 times the winter I was there....and the student residences weren't particularly well heated. But I loved it.
Its a beautiful town. I bet studying there kept you fit!😁
@@threeacresofmarche It surely did....the student residences were on top of one hill, the university on top of another and quite a dip between the two......I had a nice flat belly and good thighs!
Thanks for another great video. You have become one of my favourites UA-camrs.....practical while having a good attitude towards the ups and downs of renovating in a foreign country. That makes you relatable to so many. Great to see your Italy experience cannot be all work and no play. That's impossible in that place and inspires others to consider moving to Italy. Urbino looks amazing. Would love to know what you eat when out and about.
Thanks for the kind words @yvanapantino273 . I am still in that long honeymoon stage so all food is always Italian. I do grab the odd Poke Bowl when out and about but 99% of the time it will be some form of Italian meal or snack. The deli bars in supermakets are amazing.
i love the little around town tours! also the blue tiles are gorgeous!
Thanks. The mix of it to show the lifetsyle is enjoyable to capture as I go.
Hello Richard! We are in the process of buying a 70's villa near Monteprandone. Close to San Benedetto del Tronto. We love the Marche region. Lots of cosmetic renos tp do. I would love to do them myself but kid in school back in Canada. It's coming along great I am jealous.
Thanks. I'm sure there will be plenty of time to get this done once your chiildren are older and settled. 🙌
Just binged it all over the last 2 days while I’m stuck in my back bedroom hand sewing blackout drapes in my Coachella Valley, California, fixer upper due to half of my brand new air con system deciding to die on me during 115F+ temps and first repairman is 3 days out. Absolutely love everything about your channel…you do you. Thanks for keeping me company. From one DIY’er to another - rock on!👍
I hope you feel better and get well soon @catherinekimball7493 thanks for watching.
The base of the fireplace looks great. I was wondering how those uneven edges would look but you’ve done it nicely. I quite liked the chalky aspect of the first coat of white paint on the bricks. If that’s something you liked too I guess you could sand back some of the top layers to ‘antique’ it. Went well with the aged base tiles. No idea really how to do that. Poss a chemical reaction would work with acetone of sorts. But just guessing. Well done.
Thanks @jennichristie5264 . It did look good with one or two coats but as it all stated to come together then it needed more white to make it look cleaner. It dired very patchy and highlighted some ugly bits. Maybe in another spot over a better brick that chalky look would be great.😊
The appeal of watching you and your Italian Villa renovation is how relatable you are. You are basically the amateur doing your best and inspiring people like me to think, you know I could give that a go. I am embarking on a new life in Spain, with the view in a couple of years to buy a fixer up property in a rural Spanish location, you are giving me confidence to go for it. Hard work but so satisfying I bet as you make slow but steady progress. As I watched you move the tiles, I kept thinking, why not use the car, but you answered that, "do not want to get it dirty", id have used my car ha but I am a little lazier. Thanks for this upload.
You are right @stevenoels2757 . It is hard work, it is satisfying, and you can do it. Go for it! It is amzing experience.👍
love your humor😂…you‘re admirable😊
Hello Robert, when I saw you mix that full bag of plaster I thought this guy must have done this before or he is going to learn real fast. Your finished walls didn’t look bad, great recovery.
That was crazy having to wheel those tiles up to the house. They were unfinished, when installing you need to keep a pale with clean water and a sponge close by for wipe down to prevent them from getting stained with the mortar. You should try sealing the tiles before grouting it would make your life a lot easier. The sizing on the terracotta looked good which should make the layout easier. Good luck with the project.
By the way the fire place is coming out better than I thought it would.
Keep up the good work and thanks for another good video.
HI @dono9879 . Yep - that full bag was a lesson!
The area by the house is quite tight and the overhanging Olive trees are too nice to cut back so the big truck that arrived could only reverse down to where it was flat enough to drop off safely.
Good idea to seal them before fitting.👍
fireplace looks so much better in white! Well done!
RICH RICH RICH? Stop stressin' What a great! vid. That fireplace is gonna be a treat. Wow ,plastering was good. it is coming together just beaut. thanks for the scenic tour, what a great spot you've pick . Cheers, keep at it. Big plus for you next please
Thanks @eziotaddeo1726 . The stress is easing as I get more into it. The finish is what makes a place so first time doing most of these jobs is fun but a worry that it won't go to plan. Only one way to find out I suppose....just get on with it!😁
Really look forward to your videos, keep up the great work it’s looking fab.
Thank you.
Love the wine label, a ladder seems very appropriate! Fire place is coming on nicely too.
Thanks.
Found you by accident…. Now I can’t get enough of your videos! Absolutely brilliant!!!
Thanks for watching @Mollythomas974🙌
Wow! Urbino! It's my city, hehe..i live not very far from it, not near but a bus ride gets me there once a month to get free beef bones, tallow and organ meat from the superb and friendly butcher, also all meat sourced from local farms and most are organic! Yep, urbino is the best, the birthplace of the great Raffaello❤❤
And I bought my very small old stone house in this region, not far from this magnificent city. It was very cheap, what I paid for it won't get you a new car!, but that was pure luck as properties are very expensive here.
Hi @thelandofmint sounds like you were lucky, or had the foresight, to get in before the property prices rocketed. It is a lovely part of the world.😎
Thought we’d had our last trip to Italy to visit family and beautiful places. Then we found your channel. Another trip may be in the works. Of course living in Italy can be difficult even for Italians. Loving your videos, your amazing work, your honesty, and your humor.
Thanks @sandym198 . A last trip to Italy sounds so sad...never say never as there is always a one more trip to explore something new.😊
Hi Richard, just to throw a cat amongst the pigeons, you could bag the brick on the fire place (a thin coat of render so you can still see the pattern) I crack myself up talking to the screen to let you know about your batter 😂 the 13.5-14.5 is a guide as the batter will mix differently in different humidities, it’s a lot like baking, you’ve done a great job so far. Ps, I’m a happy camper as we finally have the plumbing done in the bathroom & a second Loo again wwooooohhoooooooo, we just need the glass screen for the shower/tub & the towel rails. ❤Shell
Sounds like great progress @One_Crazy_Dog_Mum . His and hers loos - how posh.😁
Oh boy, are you going to own that floor, Richard! 😂. ....but that's what creates the value and allows you to appreciate the finished floor all the more 👍😊
Well done!
I think that the floor and a few exposed walls are what make these places pop. When viewing houses it was always the first thing that jumps out as being Oh WOW or rip that out day one!!😂
More beautiful and classic tiles are impossible to find😊❤
I would have gone for reclaimed but could not find any near where I live.
Another great video Richard. Really enjoying seeing it develop.
Thanks for sharing your journey to your dream house! I always look forward to your updates. Good luck with everything, and the tiles look awesome!
Thanks!
Plaster performance on film !! 😂
Could happen to any one
Glad you went rogue in it !!
We all.had yr back
Only you know what yr doing ,look good 😊
Thanks @jazstar4622 While I learn a lot from UA-cam I suppose it makes sense to share the learning as I go. I hope things imrove step by step...no better lesson than jumping in at the deep end!😂
Get a simple basic trailer, and arrange for a hook on your car. Hauling brick tiles on your farm and shopping at local builders market will become a breeze.
I am in two minds to change the car. A tow bar for that car is nearly as much as those tiles! It spending on soon so its either keep it to take it to 200k miles or sell it soon for one with a tow bar.👍
@@threeacresofmarche I would say, that if you can somewhat reasonably sell it now - do it. You really need a workhorse there, and Audi will not ever be one.
Portare tutte quelle mattonelle in terracotta è un grande allenamento! Complimenti per tutto e.. ho visto che hai messo i guanti contro gli scorpioni. Ottimo .-)
Thank you @WireItalia .
Love catching up with your videos Rich. Urbino is amazing!!
Looks amazing … the interior of the fireplace is dark you won’t notice the colour difference…it’s “ rustico” 😊
Thanks. The next video shows it done...or is it done?! The perils of DIY is you spot everything.🤦♂️
Even though it looks like a lot of hard work, I wish I was there doing it too! You are living the life!
Thank you @brocktoon8 . Doing this makes me see how many people dream of doing this sort of thing - I am really grateful.😊
When you said, it's 4 o'clock, I thought it must be wine time! 🍷You worked hard. I do admire your steadfastness. I look forward to your videos. Well done, Richard 😊
Thank you. A 4pm start could lead to a 2nd bottle by evening wine o'clock.😂
Enjoying your channel!!
Thank you for watching.
Merci !!!!!!🎉
The plaster really looks good
The magic of TV I suppose. I need to skim some parts again.😂
Wonderful episode… you certainly impressed me .
Low expecations? Joking - thank you.😊
It looks great coming along nicely Richard. Well done
Thanks @Hazel-n5b🙌
Wow terracotta tiles look lovely…so it’s not all work n no play..have a lovely weekend and week ahead..thank you for sharing
Thank you - you too. Thanks for watching.
The blue tile is fantastic. I think a marble slab across the top of the vertical stones might look great. Especially if the veining is unique. :)
That is my plan B if the stone does not come out very well. It should be easy to undo if that is the case and there is a marble place at the end of my road!👍
I visited Urbino a number of years ago when I visited the region for a friend's wedding (we went to Fano a couple of times too). A beautiful town!
Fano is great. Spoilt for choice in these parts!😎
Coming along
I love the music 🙂
The tiles are looking great! You will be fit after wheel barrowing the tiles into the house, you are surely not making your life easy😂
It makes you realise looking back that it was not that much work afterall. Its the getting started....as always. It was easier than trashing the car.😁
@@threeacresofmarche 😀
Looking great! The new red clay tiles will make a big difference. Years ago I secured 1600 square feet of Saltillo tiles in Mexico and trucked them back to the states. Through trial and error I learned one thing: seal the tiles first before you lay them. Otherwise you end up with horrendous splotches from the grout and underlayment concrete and it’s a nightmare to clean up from the tiles surface. Just my two cents but hopefully make the install go a lot smoother for you!
Thanks @michaelrich555 . A few have suggested that but I appreciate you taking the time to write with your first hand experience. I will seal them first for sure, Thanks for the tip.
I really enjoy your videos. I cringe at the amount of "manual labor" you go through. I lived in Northern Italy and have seen many of the processes you go through (done by Italians). I now live in California, and workers here certainly don't have the willingness to work as Europeans do. Your progress is amazing, keep up your fine job.
I'm sure if I could afford all the kit, machinery and tools I would get them and use them. The budget is driving this for the short term and I think I need to save for a decent machine that will help me manage the field and land.😊
Psst! You could make the tractor seat into a rustic light fitting backing on one of your out buildings! Just a suggestion. I can see it in my head...! Greetings from a chilly wintery Johannesburg, South Africa😊
Thanks for the idea @user-ms6fz7hk4w
Another good video… I see your getting your head around the editing
Its getting there slowly. Its such a big subject to learn! Great fun though when the footage is semi planned. Its the bag of all sorts that is still really hard to make something of.🤦♂️
Love your videos! My husband grew up in Marche you need to check out San Benedetto del Toronto and Grottamare! (Great seafood at Ancora-spelling might not be perfect) 😂 we dream of doing this one day! You must have burnt some serious cals moving all that with the wheelbarrow! Could have done it in a few trips with the car though 😅 x
HI @rachelstroe606 . The car would have been a right mess as it was in between rain showers. Besides - that fresh air is worth it. It saved me going for a run that day also. 😎
Best wishes to you both. I hope you find your gem one day.😊
Good Morning from a rainy upstate New York 200 yr old brick 1 room school house . Our rehab Summer home❤❤
Hi @beverlymartin1414, I was in NYC a few days ago....it was hotter than Italy! 😂😎
I explored upstate NY a few years ago and loved it!😊
@@threeacresofmarche If you ever go exploring again. Perry, NY has beautiful churches and houses.
Hello! 0:47 I check UA-cam regularly to see if you’ve posted something. Born in Canada, my parents both came from le Marche, very close to where you are renovating. My mom comes from San Vito, comune di San Lorenzo and my dad was born in Urbino! I have many relatives in Marotta near Senigallia, Pesaro, Fano and Fossombrone. Needless to say, I therefore have a vested interest in your program. Love to see how you work tirelessly with the reward of a good bottle of red while watching the sunset at the end of the day. Hoping to find a place like yours in that beautiful, unspoiled well kept secret part of the world! Can’t wait for your next episode- challenges that you tackle with your creative solutions! Tiziana
Thank you Tiziana, lovely that you have so much family around these parts that can help you find a house and settle here quickly. It is a wonderful place to live. Best wishes.
Urbino is awesome. Gubbio is nice too. Great religious festivals at Easter.
I will head back there when I have more time. I think an afternoon on that hill with a good book would be a great afternoon. 😎
@@threeacresofmarche love your channel. I have 4 kids at home in Chicago and Nashville. I made 3 of the 4 study in Rome. I did as well years ago and have been to Italy dozens of times. While a great place in Rome would be a dream, not that rich. Just retired. Trying to figure out where I could by with some land. Have never looked where you are. I’d like easy access to trains for sure. Amazed what you an get for the price as I’m used to Chicago area prices.
Richard, mix half a bucket each time. Add plaster to the water and mix until it’s the right consistency. Put a coat on and one straight on top. Clean the tools in between each time. Use a wet brush , flick water on at the end and smooth it off when it’s nearly gone off. . When the bag went in I thought .. this is brave😁👍👏👏👏maybe that’s different than the British product??
Thanks. Its that consistency part that only comes by doing it a few times to know what works. I need to add more water as I go. Yes, oddly, this is a different product that I thought it was going to be. Maybe I bought the wrong one....it looks good on though.👍
@@threeacresofmarcheyour channel is great Richard. The combination of your personality, grafting and the beautiful Italian scenery make a great channel👍🇬🇧☀️☀️
Stiff in the mornings?.......lucky you ;-)🤣🤣
😂
You need a side by side/atv and a little trailer, maybe a snow plow. At least a trailer for your car. Why didn't you use your car to move the tiles? Curious?
Nice tiles !!!
The mess from the tiles and the mud (rain showers that day). I'd love a trailer but may need to wait until I change my car so to not throw good money after bad. I need to save for a machine that will help with the land first.😊
Paying to have that done would be worth every penny
Hi @wayneevans5050 paying to have what part done? My budget is tight and prices that I have been quoted for help have been eyewatering. I am saving for machinery that will help me look after the land so these small jobs that I can do on my own are ok. Part of the fun and experience also.👍
The blue tiles are really beautiful, I'm not sure about the stones in the fire place, sorry (but it's not quite finished yet of course) The plastering looks very good and a beautiful setting in Marche 👍
Its a mixed bag that came together quite well. The next video shows it better. Lucky accident I guess.
As a former builder(In a previous life) and a love for Italia(there's no letter Y in the Italian language).I've watched your journey from day 1 and you're doing an an amazing job so far.Anyway, quick tip regarding the delivery of those tiles about a mile from the house!....next time,stick them in the car boot and save a lot of time and more importantly energy!Keep up the good work.
Thanks @cnolan3855 . I did not want to mess the car up with mud and brick dust - it was rain showers that day so quite messy. Besides, it was not that hard and not that far really (3000 steps😂). I enjoy being outside so its ok.
Suggestion for the tractor seat- a rustic wall sculpture à la Marcel Duchamp. Could look fab! 😁
Hi Rebecca is that the guy that made art from a toilet?! 😂
I don't have that much vision to see a tractor seat on a wall but if you have any suggestions I would consider it. 👍😁
@@threeacresofmarche Yep, that’s the guy. Amongst his many other art works he utilised items that he thought had sculptural value plus he enjoyed annoying the art world who thought it outrageous. 🙃
Old metal tractor seats are beautifully designed and if hung on a wall the form is visually accessible. Any lighting around it would cast interesting shadows, especially if on a plain wall. Plus of course the patina of the rust and old paint would tie in well with your rustic exposed bricks…
The aged wooden plank, the wine casks and now the tractor seat- you have a treasure trove of artefacts there!!! 😍😍😂
P.s. Please don’t throw it away! 🤞🙏😂
😂 I couldn’t help yelling “‘NO!!!” when you poured the whole bag in 🫣 THEN I couldn’t quit laughing when you learned a life lesson. Some of us like to learn the hard way! Been watching from the beginning from Dallas, Texas. Yes. Not more than 1/2 a bag and add water as you go until consistency right. Varies by humidity and temperatures.
😂 @brendafox8866 I had no idea how far a bag would go so thought I'd go for it! NEVER again.😂
Hi Richard, would save you a lot of work and effort, if you had the barrow much closer to your work and also put the bags of cement and plaster on a raised platform so as not to do a dead man's lift off the floor. K.H.
Looking fabulous
Great video Richard 👍
Great video Richard
Your walls and fireplace is so beautiful love the bricks and blue tile
If seat is still available I would pay postage
Beautiful city you went too
Love the fort and older buildings
Thanks for always sharing interesting things
Take care and see you in next video ❤❤❤❤❤❤
Thank you @marilynmeade2286
@@threeacresofmarche Richard Thank you for the heart ❤️
use your car to transport the tile up the drive? you could layer in tile with blankets to protect the car interior and the tile from cracking in case of bumps. no need to wheel barrow! loving your property and build. thanks for sharing these videos.
The mess. The turning, The lifting in and out was the same...less exercise. Besides that, I enjoyed it.😊
Love your music. I see you like jazz as I do. You played some at the house.
A good eclectic mix of music is nice. Depends on the mood.😊
Love your honest channel. Why didn't you load the floor tiles into the back of your car and take them up the road? 🤔
HI @TimFrancis-hu8ge I considered this but did not want to be driving, reversing, messing up the car (even more). It was enjoyable for the view and exercise.😁
What are your work colleagues saying to you about your social media "fame"? 😀 You come over as a really nice guy, with a good attitude of getting stuck in, and Im impressed with you learning house renovation and YT/video editing skills at the same time. Good job on both. P.s. Also , are your kids proud or embarrassed? 😅
Fame!😂 Hardly.
To be honest - they don't watch it. I did not tell anyone when I started the channel. I only talked about it to my daughters. One or two have found it as they are researching buying abroad. Otherwise it still feels like a secret. 😊
My daughters are good with it all. We are talking about doing a RAW Q&A where people ask them questions...😬😂
Great video, great progress 👏
I have an extremely important question…
Did you stop at one glass of red or did you finish the bottle? 😂
😂 @SassyPieHole999 . YES.....'ish. It was a large glass or two small glasses - depends how you look at it.😁
Great video thanks much
Glad you enjoyed it
Well done Richard! It looks really great, all coming together. When I lived in Puerto Rico for four years,( just recently left) and deliveries needed to happen, it was common practice to provide a google pin address. Is that not something they would use in Corinaldo, Le Marche? I used to provide the pin address and a photo of the house to the driver. Regardless, you seemed to work it out in the long run. Cheers and have a great week. If you're a football fan, good luck to England in the Euro Cup final. 🤩⚽🏡🌻
Hi @lisasbeautifuljourney I did try but the people you send that to are different to the driver. Then, when I sent it to the driver as he was lost the pin on his phone / map took him to a house up the road!😂 As they get to know me I am sure it will all work out....or I get a trailer.🤞
@@threeacresofmarche Of course, that’s understandable. On top of that, lost in translation too, right? All I can say is good for you, lots of extra exercise getting all of those moved. Well done all around on the renovation. 👏🏼 Nobody will ever truly understand how massive a job a renovation is until you are in it, not to mention the amount of time it takes. Have a lovely and enjoyable weekend ☀️🌊🍷
At least u ain’t getting fleeced on da Vino, Richard! Do yourself a favour and buy a quad-bike and trailer for moving materials around - you are worth it mate!😂
Totally agree with you. Richard is wearing himself out unnecessarily. He also needs a small towable trailer with 4 wheels, instead of a wheelbarrow.
Thanks @masherida . The budget is stretched at the moment and I need to save for something that will help me with the land. I'd love more tools and machinery but I simply can't stretch for it yet. Besides, it did not take long and it was great to be outside. A few barrow fulls doesnt wear someone out and it saved me going for a run that day. All good.😊
I'd love to get a trailer but am waiting until I change my car to one with a tow bar. The tow bars fitted on that car are nearly as much as that flooring was!!! It can wait. It was not that hard to move.😊
@@threeacresofmarche Let's be honest. You enjoy working on the house and you will always have projects which require tools and materials. Have you considered buying a beater van and keeping it there? Something old and inexpensive which can carry some weight and tow a little trailer. You would have much more flexibility and you would not kill your own car or a rental one. And please use your four wheeled little cart as much as possible as opposed to the wheelbarrow. (It would be better if you had a four wheeled cart with solid walls and floor instead of a mesh, but what you have will work too). The four wheeled cart is as versatile as the wheelbarrow but much more stable. It avoids the risk of tipping literally, which is what will kill your back, especially on uneven surfaces. You pull your back and you cannot work on the house until it heals. How do I know? Many, many house renovations.... and herniated disks. If your body does not work, nothing gets done!
Excellent episode! Your progress on the house is really showing. Here's a recommendation for a leisure moment: Likely available in your area, a lovely chianti classico: Primata Fattoria di Castelvecchi, Capotondo. All of that is on the label but I think the Castelvecchi is the key name.
Thanks @johnthorne1429 . I will add these to the list of top tips that I am getting.👍
Love your videos, the mistakes are part of being human, no pretence, just pure enthusiam. The room is starting to look really good. With the blue tile accents it will look awesome. Wondering if the floor tile is porous or not. BTW don't compare yourself to Martijn, he's just too worried about appearances, I like the priest's videos much better..
I should watch the priests videos - a few have mentioned him to me. 😂
The tiles - yes they are porous. A few top tips coming in suggest to seal them before laying them and then seal them again. They can get marked and stained when catching a splash or spec of cenment / tile adhesive.
Thanks, Love the content mate
Thanks for watching.
It was 3:40pm on Saturday afternoon when you cracked that bottle of red and Im smacking my lips and thinking about the bottles I have in the kitchen 🤔
You are a bad influence Richard 😉 (No you're not, Im weak and will use any excuse to relax with a nice red 😂)
Now my shifting of blame aside,
For a first attempt the plaster turned out amazing (even though I did laugh at your applied with a spoon comment), your fireplace is coming together beautifully and I honestly can wait to see those stunning blue tiles against the grouted base in the fireplace and the white walls.
Stay safe sir, see you next week.
Off to open that bottle of red now, Slainte Mhath / Salute 🍷
Cheers @scottsorby7966 . I hope the wine was good.👍
@@threeacresofmarche thank you, yes it went down a treat
Call me lazy.. but i would have been loading the tiles into my car not the wheelbarrow 🙂 I'm enjoying your videos. Thanks for sharing
Thanks for watching @Renee05 . Its not lazy using your car. I just did not want the mess.😁
Im watching You and see myself.Been making mistakes but always done what i should.Keep on going.P,s further south is this same.
You can watch a million YT videos but there is nothing quite like jumping in the deep end.😁
@threeacresofmarche exactly, not everyone realises how difficult it is to do refurbishment and shoot videos at this same time.
Ciao! A tip: drink local wine from Marche. Rosso Conero DOC, Lacrima di Morro d’Alba DOC, Rosso Piceno o Piceno DOC. And white wine: Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi DOC, Verdicchio di Matelica DOC, Passerina DOC, Pecorino DOC, Falerio DOC 🍷🍾they are not expensive
Thank you @giovannellafalchetti703 I should make a plan to visit all of these cantina's.👍 Are you local and could you help point me to where they are located? I would really apprciate any help. Thanks.