By: Daisy Sampson
Ahouse renovation project can seem a daunting task. The thought of paperwork, plans and project management is enough to put off most prospective renovators, especially when this is all undertaken in a foreign country.
However, Silves-based architect Arnold Aarssen claims that things are often far easier than they first appear and a renovation project can often be a way to get more for less in the Algarve property market.
“There are many benefits to house renovation over new builds in Portugal. Where there is an existing property, you will have electricity, water and other features while, most importantly, it will already have a habitation licence,” he said.
 House, south view |
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A recent project by Arnold Aarssen from Studio Arte was the renovation of three small adjoining houses in the historical centre of Messines into one house, Casa do Arco, complete with roof terrace.
The project began in 2006 with construction starting in 2007 and completed in 2008.
Renovation can prove to be the smart way to make the most of your money. The Casa do Arco houses were originally bought for 60,000 euros, with work costing a further 65,000 euros, but, in return for 130,000 euros, the owners have a two-bedroom home and 90 square metres of living space.
For clients who are looking to move to a new property but are struggling to sell, the architect suggests that the answer could be to “pimp up” your existing property.
“There is no need to move home, especially while the market is how it is currently. An option could instead be to add value to your property by updating rooms or entire floors without altering the façade.
“If only the interior of a property is altered, this does not require a project and paperwork can be processed within a very short period of time.”
Many potential renovation clients are nervous about unforeseen costs.
However, Arnold is adamant that a good architect should outline all costs involved so there are no nasty surprises.
“Clients should ask architects for a fixed price for the project and work from this. The price should include all costs, from fixtures and fittings to plumbing and electricity. Realistically, this cost should never exceed 10 per cent of the budget when using a good architect.”
The Casa do Arco property in Messines is an example of how run-down buildings can be transformed into dream homes, combining the beauty of traditional features with the practicality and style of contemporary design.
“The Casa do Arco project shows not only how you can create a dream living space on a limited budget but also with the benefits of living in a town centre.
“Not all of us can afford to live along the coast of the Algarve and have a large villa. The beauty of a town house is that you do not really need a car as all amenities are close to hand; you are part of a real community and for those who use the property as a holiday home, there is the added benefit of no garden and pool costs. In this case, less is more in the Algarve. Live the simple Portuguese life and enjoy the Algarve to the full.”
For further information about the projects undertaken by Arnold Aarssen and Studio Arte, please call 282 445 776 or alternatively visit www.algarvedesigncompany.com (available in English).
To download the full article as a PDF file with all of the photos of this project, please click here
