True, you'd have to rebuild the chimney from the second floor up though, as it appears to have been removed at some point in the very distant past. Putting a log burner with glass doors into the fireplace would probably be safer and much more efficient than an open fire but still look nice.
You guys need to see more job sites. I’m sorry but that is no work of a “master”. I’ve been a General Contractor for many years and I can comfortably say that if I saw my finishes looking like this I’d find another drywall guy. Nothing against him personally, I think he’s pretty decent guy but master plasterer he isn’t.
Billy, don't cover it up, please, don't! Having an original fireplace in the corner would make for a splendid reading nook... even on the gallery. So exciting! ❤ it. Maybe you could hang an enlarged historic picture of the convent over a restored mantle? Move the wall back a bit further on that level if you have to in order to keep it. The fireplace, whether it works or not, will add a unique cozy feature in the corner.
Oh, what an exciting find, Billy. Even if the fireplace is not situated perfectly for the gallery-it's an enhancement, not a detriment to the building. What a beautiful discovery. I hope that granite fireplace becomes a focal point, and doesn't get covered up with drywall.
Make the library bigger on the 2nd floor to accommodate the fireplace and a lounge area. Also, rebuild the secret room as part of the library that people can walk through
Cool episode! My suggestion is to work that old fireplace in to the library as an unexpected feature. You could put glass shelves in the fireplace or have it as a display case with glass door and put some of the bits of “treasure” you’ve discovered during the renovation process. I bet it will look great.
Billy, you were 100% correct to cover up the cabinet. It's a shame, but I agree it really didn't work. At least it's still there should anyone in the future wish to uncover it should they find a need.
Anyone else feel like you have watched a master artist at work while watching Simon plaster that wall? I do. And I agree a nice reading nook with a fire would be a lovely spot to curl up with a book...
The fireplace would look lovely where ever it is in the library. The fireplace of this historic significance will be stunning. If possible a couple of chairs near it would be spectacular.
Please, please keep and kit out the fireplace! I know a fireplace in the center of the room is grander but a fireplace in a corner with a comfy chair to sit and read is so much more intimate and special.
A few thoughts: 1: It is a pleasure to see Simon work so meticulously. He is such a kind man and a great teacher too! 2: The music… oh the music! Especially the first tune, it’s like the theme tune, for me at least 😍🎶 3: Keep the fireplace exposed. A feature like that should not be hidden. Even if it is out of place with your new plans. Hey, Santa has to have a few options anyway 😬 4: When Yanis smiles and thumbs up at the camera, that is always special 🙏😃 5: CrackOn! And have a nice weekend 😎
Here in America, we call the sheets of 'wall board' - 'plasterboard'. I find it fascinating that instead of just a coat of painted on primer like we do here before paint, you take the time to put a coat of plaster over the 'plasterboard'. It is very interesting to watch a skilled man such as Simon doing this. The only 'plaster' put on our walls here is the 'mud' used when taping the joints. It truly is a skill to plaster an entire wall and Simon makes it look so easy even though I'm sure it is not as easy as he makes it seem.
We lived in a custom built 1956 home in the PNW. We were told the Sheetrock had a skim coat of plaster over the entire wall and it was dome in high end homes to give a perfect smooth wall.
It’s a cultural thing. Everyone used to plaster cause thats how it was always done. The US used to plaster, use slats that plaster was affixed to, heck we used to use mud and straw. It’s all about labor, man hour costs and want the client wants.
Billy, if possible, you might keep the newly discovered fireplace on the library floor. I could see two leather chairs flanking the fireplace as a cozy reading area! Even without a fire in the fireplace it would look lovely and inviting! Also, may I say how wonderful Yanis is! I'm old enough to be his Gran, but I have to say he's quite a hard-working young man and so willing to learn! You can see he adores Simon and hangs on to his every move! He's learning so much working with you fellas..
Would be a beautiful reading corner with a little fireplace and a big comfy leather chair! Just image hiding above by yourself with your little reading corner
My dad and his brother owned a company that leased and flew aircraft for movie production. He heard about an abandoned mansion that belonged to a silent film actress. He decided to buy it to renovate. It was 33,000 sq ft and was a huge pain and money pit. I couldn't imagine taking on a former convent like that. You folks are brave and I hope it all goes well. It can be very rewarding.
Billy, you DID find a treasure, just not the one you were looking for! I vote with, keep the fireplace! Lots of ways to make it look fantastic that don't involve putting in a chimney! Someone suggested candles, others have suggested an electric fireplace. It will make a fantastic reading nook!!❤
Billy, the reason why there is no chimney is that the 2nd floor of this section of the convent is a later addition. The Mansard style roof only became popularised in te 19th century. The chimney as been demolished when they modified the roof in order to add a 2nd floor
@@ThePethericks I know that, but, as said above, it has been popularised much later by the very end of the 18th-early 19th century. The west wing has still its original roof while the south and east wings had their roof modified in order to create a 2nd floor, thus explaining why you cannot find a chimney past that level as it was the attic earlier.
Yannis is an amazing learner. He has learned so much and now seems so competent after such a short time. Simon is like a dancer with plaster, graceful with few wasted motion
Oh, please save the fireplace if you can. Having it just as a feature would be nice. Unless it looks totally wonky then of course do what you will. Simon needs his own DIY channel (completely paid by a network) so he can teach and tutor his skills to the masses! Yanis looked like a little elf just peeking tough the kitchen doorway and then backing out. Have a wonderful weekend, all. 💚
Simon, I used to round the 4 corners of my trowels slightly to prevent trowel from cutting g fresh plaster and leaving cut marks. Viewers should watch Simon "roll" trowel in his hand ever so slightly so that he is using both edges to get that smooth coat. Also, notice how Simon tips the "hawk" to move the plaster from hawk to trowel without plaster slipping onto floor. I have done plastering for years, (on wood lath, metal lath and button board" and to watch Simon I can feel the tools in "my own hands). A last thought from retired professional.....there could be a half dozen hawks and trowels on a table, and blindfolded, I could pick mine out. The "feel" of the handles is what would tell me.... MINE. Alex ask Simon, he will say the same
I love the idea of a corner fireplace Billy! So "Gentleman's Club". Perhaps the brick mantle could be replaced with a piece of the large bowed beam that is being taken down? I'm sure there is a level section that could be used if you don't already have plans for it. Looking forward to the kitchen cupboards being installed. Also, you were calling the furniture against the wall that Simon just prepared, a "dresser " another word for this is a HUTCH or CHINAHUTCH..open shelved on top to display dishes and drawers and cupboards below for cutlery and linens. Have a great weekend 😀
Well Billy, it looks like from all the comments on the fireplace, you will HAVE to keep it!! Even though it doesn't have a chimney any longer, I'm sure that you and your amazing team will think of a perfect solution to restoring that beautiful piece of history!! My husband and I watch your Utube channel everyday. Never miss it!! What your doing is ANAZING!!
Watching Simon at work is like having the pleasure of watching an inspired artist at work, a true Master Class! God bless the hand and mind that guides you, Simon. Patricia
Beautiful music 🎵 with a beautiful episode. I’m glad the guys are warm and toasty in the kitchen. We are having a white out blizzard here in Michigan today. Great idea Billy to cover over the the big cupboard. Now the beautiful door is the center piece of the wall. Keep the fireplace as a feature in the library. Put an electric fireplace insert in it. It will be warm and cozy.
Simon is a true master at his trade. I used to do tilework in my early years as an adult, and being good at plastering was seen as the real token of being an ace in that craft. Also i truly enjoy him saying "Good moouwning everybody" every evening when I watch your episodes 😃 Keep up the good work.
Watching Simon working is like watching a painter paint. His strokes of the plaster and the way Alex slows it down the filming the music all make it a magical experience. Billie you put together a masterpiece of people. Thank you.
I found myself repeating loudly, open it Billy, open it, as you hammered the wall of the enclosed fireplace!! To hear your visions for the different rooms, to see the demo and then reconstruction and finally, it comes close to being finished (kitchen) is so rewarding! Simon's work is impeccable! Yanis is one scrappy dude and look forward to his "lets Crack on!" Bill, your idea of hiding a treasure in the kitchen wall was brilliant! Can't wait to see who returns next week!!! Enjoy your weekend!
"Billy the Great Fireplace Explorer and Distructor of Walls". Amazing how Simon and Yaniz made the cupboard disappear. Crack on, always something exciting or interesting going on.
Oh, such another world to see the Master Simon doing his art….he makes it come alive! Thanks too to Alex for capturing his interaction with the world of plaster & the wall! Amazing to experience! As for the just discovered fireplace….wouldn’t that be a welcomed cozy corner to walk into and set the mood for the library….go for it Billy…..just can see a couple of warm stuffed chairs with foot rests or chaise lounger and woolen-cashmere throw, a pot of steaming tea or chocolate on a small table with lamps with a glowing fireplace to warm the space and heart!❤
Watching Simon plaster the wall I had a vision of someone in the Covents future knocking on that wall saying ‘this sounds like there’s a void behind here, let’s open it up. Surprise!
A fireplace in the library would be awesome. Imagine walking through the convent and entering the library and there is a fireplace with a fire. How cozy, how romantic. Nice plaster work !!!
Billy please keep the fireplace, sitting down in the library with a few armchairs reading a book would be so lovely and cosy, it would make a great feature for the library. Even though you cannot have a real fire there as there is mo chimney, you can get some amazing electric fires that look like a coal fire. Simon really is a masterer plasterer, fine art, his skills and knowledge on all sorts of things is amazing, the way he speaks to us, explaining what hes doing, and then jumping on camera to tell us things he's finding when dismantling the old oak frames, and showing us how they kept frames sturdy wirh metal pins and wooden dowels.
Oh please keep the fireplace! 🙏🏼Being in the corner on the 2nd floor would be just fine… actually better that it’s not blocking the doorway in the center 😉 Also, you have at least 2 mirrors in that library that would look amazing over top of it too! 🤩
Simon is doing a seamless finish on that wall. Beautiful! Billy, you have aknack for seeing what is hidden. I think that a fireplace would have been there to keep that floor of the convent warm before the modern heating. It could be a cozy feature even if it doesn't work. Please try and keep it! You could maybe put in gas or ametal chimney with a woodstove even in the fireplace. Have a good weekend!
Simon is a Master of Plaster; so smooth and focused on what he is doing. As to the fireplace, it could be left as a 'feature' with some woodwork added to it depending on what is above the opening. Yannis is having a great oportunity to develop a lifetime trade.
Simons talent is unprecedented as a plasterer! As someone who has installed drywall in America, I understand the finesse it takes to do that job. In Europe, you take it it a step further and I have so much respect for what a plasterer does! That kitchen is just gorgeous! For as big as it is, it is warm and inviting. I just love the transformation!-❤
I am intrigued as to why Simon plasters over a perfectly good plaster board, or "Gyprock" as we know it here in Australia. Normally here the joints are taped and filled, then sanded smooth to the surrounding board then painted in the usual way with acrylic paint. Perfect job and a lot less work and expense. What do others think. Plastering over brickwork or stone I can understand but plastering over plasterboard. I figure that is why it was invented, to make the job easier and cheaper. Not taking away from Simon"s skills ....... I am stunned with the kitchen transformation.
Dear Billy. I have just received my prints of 'Pip' in Norwich Cathedral, and the Organ in the Chapel. I also bought the Heron print that Michael had on Doing it Ourselves. I want to say that if anyone is wondering whether to buy them, please do. They are so charming, and a very good depiction of both the Chapel and Cathedral. I also found 'Pip' hidden in the Chapel, it took me a while. The Heron is so good and lifelike. It was a gift to my Husband to remined him of where we holiday and there are a few Herons there. We both love it. They were well packaged, no damage and a delight to open. I hope you sold enough to buy the scaffolding. Now I'm going to enjoy a lovely memory of the Organ and all that that entailed and I can't wait for MIchaels book to be printed. I was truly invested in the Organs journey and build and want to congratulate you on a wonderful achievement, and riveting filming. Thanks to everyone involved. Warmest wishes. Pam
I think you should keep the fireplace Billy. Just my 2 cents. They are beautiful additions even if not being used. You can even get a propane fireplace insert or the other fake ones that are pretty realistic looking.
So disappointing the 🔥 place didn’t yield a huge treasure! You’ll find it when you least expect it! Simon, the “Plaster Master,” is “cracking on!” Happy Weekend Everyone!
Sure nice to see a pro working...referring to Simon applying the plaster in this case....wow! I think a fireplace in the corner of the Library would look very cozy and inviting. Gosh, things are looking fantastic.
Watching Simon plaster is mesmerizing. Alex’s music selection enhances Simon’s artistry. Yannis observing and learning everyday. Billy continuously discovering hidden rooms/objects/fireplaces. This is such a great channel. Maine USA
I can completely envision a cold winter day curled up near a corner fireplace in your stunning library. Being on the second floor with a view downstairs too? All the more intriguing!
There is no doubt that the old cabinet had to be removed - even with the extra work! It's a pleasure to watch Simon work, it seems so professional. There is another thing I often enjoy - it is the background music - it is very well chosen !!
A fireplace in the corner of the room with seating to read? That would be a beautiful feature for a library.
Totally with you on the idea. Fireplace with a couple of comfortable chairs and a place for your tea.
I came on here to say the exact same thing! Maybe convert the fireplace into a gas one to make it homey and cozy.
@@TheBlackClaymore I don't think it has a chimney.
Yeah! don't cover it up!
Is that texture called the Venetian plaster?
Keep the fireplace! Definitely keep it! There's nothing better than reading a good book in front of a fire!
I would extend the library and make a reading nook with the fireplace as the center piece!
Oh I agree…..keep the fireplace ..can you just imagine sitting reading a book by it…maybe 2 or 3 armchairs….
he could also remove the fireplace but use the shaft for a stove (safer, and more efficient)
True, you'd have to rebuild the chimney from the second floor up though, as it appears to have been removed at some point in the very distant past. Putting a log burner with glass doors into the fireplace would probably be safer and much more efficient than an open fire but still look nice.
Perhaps with that really cool wallpaper that they found in that secret room
Watching him put on the plaster is like watching an artist paint or a dancer in a ballet. It's truly mesmerizing.
Agree with you. Simon is a Master in his craft and a plaisir to watch . His love for a work well done is very rare. 🇦🇺🦘🦘🐨
Simon is the Mikhail Baryshnikov of plasterers! Always on point!
Called a trowel symphony
Simon really is a Master Plasterer. A finish like that is an art form.
And Yannis is learning from him, and getting better all the time. That makes him a Plaster Masterer.
Great work Simon
All the master craftsmen are in Europe. Can't find any in USA.
Music was perfect
You guys need to see more job sites. I’m sorry but that is no work of a “master”. I’ve been a General Contractor for many years and I can comfortably say that if I saw my finishes looking like this I’d find another drywall guy. Nothing against him personally, I think he’s pretty decent guy but master plasterer he isn’t.
Not looking close enough. Its a two coat plaster and looks terrible under the light. Should import the brown one coat finnish plaster from UK
Yes, keep the fireplace. It's a beautiful feature, no matter where it's located. Even if it's not functioning.
A corner fireplace that is part of a reading room would be cool place to curl up and read.
An upstairs lounge area next to the gallery with couches and fireplace could be a cozy sitting area or reading area. Doesn’t seem weird.
I love the fact that Simon explains what he's doing and how it's done. You have 2 hard workers there.
Billy, don't cover it up, please, don't! Having an original fireplace in the corner would make for a splendid reading nook... even on the gallery. So exciting! ❤ it. Maybe you could hang an enlarged historic picture of the convent over a restored mantle? Move the wall back a bit further on that level if you have to in order to keep it. The fireplace, whether it works or not, will add a unique cozy feature in the corner.
Two masters at work....Simon plastering and Alex filming.
Simon is a man who takes pride in his work and it show. Brilliant work Simon.
Oh, what an exciting find, Billy. Even if the fireplace is not situated perfectly for the gallery-it's an enhancement, not a detriment to the building. What a beautiful discovery. I hope that granite fireplace becomes a focal point, and doesn't get covered up with drywall.
I don't know if anyone has told you lately - that kitchen is gorgeous!
Make the library bigger on the 2nd floor to accommodate the fireplace and a lounge area. Also, rebuild the secret room as part of the library that people can walk through
Excellent idea. ❤
That area would be wonderful for the "discoveries". A museum of sorts.
I can totally see a secret adventure area in the library with hidden room and fire place for children. They will love it.
Like a Narnia.
i had this idea like a month ago to make second floor bigger, it would be cool and there would be more space for people to sit and read books
Cool episode! My suggestion is to work that old fireplace in to the library as an unexpected feature. You could put glass shelves in the fireplace or have it as a display case with glass door and put some of the bits of “treasure” you’ve discovered during the renovation process. I bet it will look great.
Best idea so far
I agree great idea
Great idea
You r sneaky with your surprises! What is Dad bringing home?
Possibly add an electric fire in the fireplace with the lounge area.
Billy, you were 100% correct to cover up the cabinet. It's a shame, but I agree it really didn't work. At least it's still there should anyone in the future wish to uncover it should they find a need.
I just love seeing Yannis and Simon working together. There is something so harmonious about these two it makes me feel peaceful just watching them.
Bromance sparks are flying everyone 😋
Anyone else feel like you have watched a master artist at work while watching Simon plaster that wall? I do. And I agree a nice reading nook with a fire would be a lovely spot to curl up with a book...
🙋🏻♀️ 👍🏼
No
The fireplace would look lovely where ever it is in the library. The fireplace of this historic significance will be stunning. If possible a couple of chairs near it would be spectacular.
Simon does his art beautifully.
Please, please keep and kit out the fireplace! I know a fireplace in the center of the room is grander but a fireplace in a corner with a comfy chair to sit and read is so much more intimate and special.
A few thoughts:
1: It is a pleasure to see Simon work so meticulously. He is such a kind man and a great teacher too!
2: The music… oh the music! Especially the first tune, it’s like the theme tune, for me at least 😍🎶
3: Keep the fireplace exposed. A feature like that should not be hidden. Even if it is out of place with your new plans. Hey, Santa has to have a few options anyway 😬
4: When Yanis smiles and thumbs up at the camera, that is always special 🙏😃
5: CrackOn! And have a nice weekend 😎
A fireplace anywhere in a gorgeous library would be an amazing and unique feature.
Here in America, we call the sheets of 'wall board' - 'plasterboard'. I find it fascinating that instead of just a coat of painted on primer like we do here before paint, you take the time to put a coat of plaster over the 'plasterboard'. It is very interesting to watch a skilled man such as Simon doing this. The only 'plaster' put on our walls here is the 'mud' used when taping the joints. It truly is a skill to plaster an entire wall and Simon makes it look so easy even though I'm sure it is not as easy as he makes it seem.
I'm in the united states and I have seen plaster used on the walls the way Simon is doing it. I never heard plaster called mud tho.
We lived in a custom built 1956 home in the PNW. We were told the Sheetrock had a skim coat of plaster over the entire wall and it was dome in high end homes to give a perfect smooth wall.
It’s a cultural thing. Everyone used to plaster cause thats how it was always done. The US used to plaster, use slats that plaster was affixed to, heck we used to use mud and straw. It’s all about labor, man hour costs and want the client wants.
@@janetwatson7966some here in Canada refer to it as mud. My dad use to refer to it as mudding the wall.
@@janetwatson7966 My son in law used to do drywall or sheetrock installation, the crew all called it that.
A reading nook with the historical fireplace would be so appropriate for a library! Please find a way to keep it…
I love how the colors in the kitchen are so inviting and just has a cozy feel but elegant at the same time.
It made an immediate difference when you closed off the cabinet. Very exciting.
Fireplace in the corner would be beautiful. Add a couple of chairs facing each other. It would a really nice add to the library
I agree that a fireplace in the library would be a great feature! What a find!
Could watch Simon plaster all day! Kind of like sitting at the beach watching the waves! Have a wonderful weekend everyone!
Billy, if possible, you might keep the newly discovered fireplace on the library floor. I could see two leather chairs flanking the fireplace as a cozy reading area! Even without a fire in the fireplace it would look lovely and inviting! Also, may I say how wonderful Yanis is! I'm old enough to be his Gran, but I have to say he's quite a hard-working young man and so willing to learn! You can see he adores Simon and hangs on to his every move! He's learning so much working with you fellas..
There is such poetry in watching a master craftsman at work, and Alex's videography perfectly captures that.
Would be a beautiful reading corner with a little fireplace and a big comfy leather chair! Just image hiding above by yourself with your little reading corner
What a Master Craftsman Simon is😊
Yes all day to plaster to plaster 8sq.
A fireplace, even in the corner, would be cool. A couple of club chairs for a reading corner. I think it’s awesome.
I can't watch and listen to Simon without thinking he should be a character in a Dickens novel. The guy is awesome.
My dad and his brother owned a company that leased and flew aircraft for movie production. He heard about an abandoned mansion that belonged to a silent film actress. He decided to buy it to renovate. It was 33,000 sq ft and was a huge pain and money pit. I couldn't imagine taking on a former convent like that. You folks are brave and I hope it all goes well. It can be very rewarding.
I want you to keep the fireplace! It’s gorgeous. A little sitting chair by the fireplace overlooking the downstairs would be brilliant
Billy, you DID find a treasure, just not the one you were looking for! I vote with, keep the fireplace! Lots of ways to make it look fantastic that don't involve putting in a chimney! Someone suggested candles, others have suggested an electric fireplace. It will make a fantastic reading nook!!❤
Billy, the reason why there is no chimney is that the 2nd floor of this section of the convent is a later addition. The Mansard style roof only became popularised in te 19th century. The chimney as been demolished when they modified the roof in order to add a 2nd floor
Mansard roof on versailles was built in 1631
@@ThePethericks I know that, but, as said above, it has been popularised much later by the very end of the 18th-early 19th century. The west wing has still its original roof while the south and east wings had their roof modified in order to create a 2nd floor, thus explaining why you cannot find a chimney past that level as it was the attic earlier.
Is it possible that chimney was the heat source for the heating room (chauffoir)?
Yannis is an amazing learner. He has learned so much and now seems so competent after such a short time. Simon is like a dancer with plaster, graceful with few wasted motion
Oh, please save the fireplace if you can. Having it just as a feature would be nice. Unless it looks totally wonky then of course do what you will. Simon needs his own DIY channel (completely paid by a network) so he can teach and tutor his skills to the masses! Yanis looked like a little elf just peeking tough the kitchen doorway and then backing out. Have a wonderful weekend, all. 💚
Yannis is so cute.
All old buildings such as this one has many fireplaces
Simon, I used to round the 4 corners of my trowels slightly to prevent trowel from cutting g fresh plaster and leaving cut marks. Viewers should watch Simon "roll" trowel in his hand ever so slightly so that he is using both edges to get that smooth coat. Also, notice how Simon tips the "hawk" to move the plaster from hawk to trowel without plaster slipping onto floor. I have done plastering for years, (on wood lath, metal lath and button board" and to watch Simon I can feel the tools in "my own hands). A last thought from retired professional.....there could be a half dozen hawks and trowels on a table, and blindfolded, I could pick mine out. The "feel" of the handles is what would tell me.... MINE. Alex ask Simon, he will say the same
I love that this brings great memories to life for you. You must have loved your work. God bless.
I love the idea of a corner fireplace Billy! So "Gentleman's Club".
Perhaps the brick mantle could be replaced with a piece of the large bowed beam that is being taken down? I'm sure there is a level section that could be used if you don't already have plans for it. Looking forward to the kitchen cupboards being installed. Also, you were calling the furniture against the wall that Simon just prepared, a "dresser " another word for this is a HUTCH or CHINAHUTCH..open shelved on top to display dishes and drawers and cupboards below for cutlery and linens. Have a great weekend 😀
Well Billy, it looks like from all the comments on the fireplace, you will HAVE to keep it!! Even though it doesn't have a chimney any longer, I'm sure that you and your amazing team will think of a perfect solution to restoring that beautiful piece of history!! My husband and I watch your Utube channel everyday. Never miss it!! What your doing is ANAZING!!
How about putting in a gas insert?
Watching Simon at work is like having the pleasure of watching an inspired artist at work, a true Master Class! God bless the hand and mind that guides you, Simon. Patricia
Simon is truly an incredible craftsman. He is mesmerizing to watch !
He absolutely is. Also an amazing teacher. He could hold workshops and they would be packed.
Oh, Billy when you said "any moment I expect a hand to reach out", I burst out laughing. That truly would have set this renovation on it's ear.
Keep the fireplace a part of the library. It’ll be a statement of what the convent was. You can do it! Crack on!
The corner area where the cupboard was looks so much nicer without it. The kitchen is stunningly beautiful!
Infinite patience, Simone. Magnificent.
The level of craftsmanship is astounding. Awesome work.
Simon, your artistic finesse surpasses anything Michelangelo ever created. Thanks for sharing.
Beautiful music 🎵 with a beautiful episode. I’m glad the guys are warm and toasty in the kitchen. We are having a white out blizzard here in Michigan today. Great idea Billy to cover over the the big cupboard. Now the beautiful door is the center piece of the wall. Keep the fireplace as a feature in the library. Put an electric fireplace insert in it. It will be warm and cozy.
Simon is a true master at his trade. I used to do tilework in my early years as an adult, and being good at plastering was seen as the real token of being an ace in that craft.
Also i truly enjoy him saying "Good moouwning everybody" every evening when I watch your episodes 😃
Keep up the good work.
Depending on where the fireplace sits in the new library, it would be a beautiful addition and a nice reading area in some big comfortable chairs
Watching Simon working is like watching a painter paint. His strokes of the plaster and the way Alex slows it down the filming the music all make it a magical experience. Billie you put together a masterpiece of people. Thank you.
I found myself repeating loudly, open it Billy, open it, as you hammered the wall of the enclosed fireplace!! To hear your visions for the different rooms, to see the demo and then reconstruction and finally, it comes close to being finished (kitchen) is so rewarding! Simon's work is impeccable! Yanis is one scrappy dude and look forward to his "lets Crack on!" Bill, your idea of hiding a treasure in the kitchen wall was brilliant! Can't wait to see who returns next week!!! Enjoy your weekend!
That is so funny because I was doing same thing, saying open it Billy open it. And I am here on the other side of the world in Australia 🇦🇺
I can go to bed now. I’ve had my daily fix of watching you all do interesting things.
Fireplaces are always great focal points. Might be a very cool feature in your library.
More like a hot feature.
A secret room & a secret fireplace! Love the secrets that the convent reveals. Great job everyone!
Extend the library wall a little further and make it a nice sitting area with a fireplace. PERFECT for the library.
"Billy the Great Fireplace Explorer and Distructor of Walls".
Amazing how Simon and Yaniz made the cupboard disappear.
Crack on, always something exciting or interesting going on.
Plastering is an art I’ll never come even close to mastering. Great to se a true master at work.
Billy was right!!!! The wall looks much better with pantry gone. 😊
Fabulous job Simon as usual, inspired decision Billy to get rid of the cupboard looks much better x
That kitchen is going to be a beautiful place to gather! I’m enjoying your channel😊😊😊
Oh, such another world to see the Master Simon doing his art….he makes it come alive! Thanks too to Alex for capturing his interaction with the world of plaster & the wall! Amazing to experience! As for the just discovered fireplace….wouldn’t that be a welcomed cozy corner to walk into and set the mood for the library….go for it Billy…..just can see a couple of warm stuffed chairs with foot rests or chaise lounger and woolen-cashmere throw, a pot of steaming tea or chocolate on a small table with lamps with a glowing fireplace to warm the space and heart!❤
A traditional library needs a fireplace. Especially for a desk+reading knook in/on the gallery. It'll be more private and cozy.
Watching Simon plaster the wall I had a vision of someone in the Covents future knocking on that wall saying ‘this sounds like there’s a void behind here, let’s open it up. Surprise!
A fireplace in the library would be awesome. Imagine walking through the convent and entering the library and there is a fireplace with a fire. How cozy, how romantic. Nice plaster work !!!
The slo mo and music make for a magical viewing 😊
Watching Simon plaster, he truly is an artist and excellent teaching us how it's done. Master craftsman! Thank you Simon!
You make plastering look easy…..definitely years of practice making you a master plasterer!!!!
Billy please keep the fireplace, sitting down in the library with a few armchairs reading a book would be so lovely and cosy, it would make a great feature for the library. Even though you cannot have a real fire there as there is mo chimney, you can get some amazing electric fires that look like a coal fire. Simon really is a masterer plasterer, fine art, his skills and knowledge on all sorts of things is amazing, the way he speaks to us, explaining what hes doing, and then jumping on camera to tell us things he's finding when dismantling the old oak frames, and showing us how they kept frames sturdy wirh metal pins and wooden dowels.
Keep it as a feature piece to show the history of the building.
Oh please keep the fireplace! 🙏🏼Being in the corner on the 2nd floor would be just fine… actually better that it’s not blocking the doorway in the center 😉 Also, you have at least 2 mirrors in that library that would look amazing over top of it too! 🤩
Simon is doing a seamless finish on that wall. Beautiful! Billy, you have aknack for seeing what is hidden. I think that a fireplace would have been there to keep that floor of the convent warm before the modern heating. It could be a cozy feature even if it doesn't work. Please try and keep it! You could maybe put in gas or ametal chimney with a woodstove even in the fireplace. Have a good weekend!
Simon is a Master of Plaster; so smooth and focused on what he is doing. As to the fireplace, it could be left as a 'feature' with some woodwork added to it depending on what is above the opening. Yannis is having a great oportunity to develop a lifetime trade.
Simons talent is unprecedented as a plasterer! As someone who has installed drywall in America, I understand the finesse it takes to do that job. In Europe, you take it it a step further and I have so much respect for what a plasterer does! That kitchen is just gorgeous! For as big as it is, it is warm and inviting. I just love the transformation!-❤
I am intrigued as to why Simon plasters over a perfectly good plaster board, or "Gyprock" as we know it here in Australia. Normally here the joints are taped and filled, then sanded smooth to the surrounding board then painted in the usual way with acrylic paint. Perfect job and a lot less work and expense. What do others think. Plastering over brickwork or stone I can understand but plastering over plasterboard. I figure that is why it was invented, to make the job easier and cheaper.
Not taking away from Simon"s skills .......
I am stunned with the kitchen transformation.
That really looks great with that old cabinet gone! It has turned into a beautiful room! 🎉
Dear Billy. I have just received my prints of 'Pip' in Norwich Cathedral, and the Organ in the Chapel. I also bought the Heron print that Michael had on Doing it Ourselves. I want to say that if anyone is wondering whether to buy them, please do. They are so charming, and a very good depiction of both the Chapel and Cathedral. I also found 'Pip' hidden in the Chapel, it took me a while. The Heron is so good and lifelike. It was a gift to my Husband to remined him of where we holiday and there are a few Herons there. We both love it. They were well packaged, no damage and a delight to open. I hope you sold enough to buy the scaffolding. Now I'm going to enjoy a lovely memory of the Organ and all that that entailed and I can't wait for MIchaels book to be printed. I was truly invested in the Organs journey and build and want to congratulate you on a wonderful achievement, and riveting filming. Thanks to everyone involved. Warmest wishes. Pam
I think you should keep the fireplace Billy. Just my 2 cents. They are beautiful additions even if not being used. You can even get a propane fireplace insert or the other fake ones that are pretty realistic looking.
Keep it and turn into a piece of art. Using materials from the convent.
So disappointing the 🔥 place didn’t yield a huge treasure! You’ll find it when you least expect it! Simon, the “Plaster Master,” is “cracking on!” Happy Weekend Everyone!
The kitchen dresser will look very homey with all the shelves filled with old plates, crockery and such. Good idea to finish the kitchen.
It was the best idea to cover that cupboard, now its uncluttered , free, spacious
That bottle of Jack Daniel's may never be found ... or enjoyed. Simon, your work is too good!
Sure nice to see a pro working...referring to Simon applying the plaster in this case....wow! I think a fireplace in the corner of the Library would look very cozy and inviting. Gosh, things are looking fantastic.
Watching Simon plaster is mesmerizing.
Alex’s music selection enhances Simon’s artistry.
Yannis observing and learning everyday.
Billy continuously discovering hidden rooms/objects/fireplaces.
This is such a great channel.
Maine USA
I can completely envision a cold winter day curled up near a corner fireplace in your stunning library. Being on the second floor with a view downstairs too? All the more intriguing!
There is no doubt that the old cabinet had to be removed - even with the extra work! It's a pleasure to watch Simon work, it seems so professional.
There is another thing I often enjoy - it is the background music - it is very well chosen !!
My favourite vlog with the Top Team ever. My daily fix.
Simon is an artist, a joy to watch.
A BIG YES to keeping the fireplace. A cozy reading nook in the corner of the library….priceless experience! 👍🥰
Ooh please keep that old fireplace I think it would look really special, and cozy 😊
I could watch Simon plaster all day, so relaxing to watch
Immaculate plastering job by Simon - I don't know how he does it!
Simon is Rembrandt with a trowel!
Alex does an excellent job framing shots and editing the videos. He is really good at what he does and I appreciate the quality of his work.