Interior Works - Four
With only just over a week until I fly out on a one-way ticket to Faial, work has continued, but somewhat slowed. Not sure why this has happened, because really now it is important to push hard to get the floors down. This can't happen until the walls are finished and skimmed. For sure the flooring supplier wants the tiles out of his storage... and the floor needs to be in place for the container delivery.
As far as I am aware, the container is still sat on a dockside in Lisbon, awaiting a ferry to the island. So, at least I am getting my money's worth on the 300+ euro 'pier fees' that I got unexpectedly charged.
Of course, it would be good to know an arrival date; there is stuff in the container that is needed for the build: Log Burning Stove, Guest Toilet, White Goods, Extractor Hood, Light Fittings (and LED bulbs), Shower, Shower Switch, Water Heaters.... etc. So, I have been in touch with the movers to try and ascertain a date.
UPDATE: The container is due to arrive the 27th.... eek.
When I arrive, I have a cottage nearby booked until the 18th of March - after that, I am 'camping' on site, as long as there is running water and a couple of power points working for a kettle and microwave (if they have indeed arrived!).
Pushing the envelope too as my project manager is off island from the 17th of the month; he suggests I brush up on my Portuguese. LOL. This should prove to be amusing!
The project manager sent me three photos this week showing the plaster boarding, in a funky shade of green in the kitchen. I presume they use a different grade for this area - perhaps it is fireproof or damp resistant? Another thing I need to look into.
Here is the almost finished fire surround. The self to the left will be the place for the 'server' Apple I-Mac for the smart house functions, as well as for streaming Netflix and such to the TV. The broadband router will sit underneath. To the right will be the 55" Sony Bravia TV, PlayStation 4 and spot for the gaming laptop - I have remote controllers for each, which can sit on the coffee table. The cubbies in the fire surround can hold kindling for the fire and either side shelves can have an ornament - My Grandfather gave me some lovely African wood carvings that can go there.
Here's the fetching green plasterboard in the kitchen - I note that the bathroom also uses this type of board, so is most likely a type that is moisture resistant. Note the plethora of power outlets for counter-top, oven and extractor hood. I am pleased to see how light and airy the kitchen looks.
The same shot but with a wider field of view: Here we can see the extent of the mezzanine that comes over the dining area and some of the kitchen. It does not, by the look of it, darken the area. I think I'm going to love the contrast of high vaulted ceilings in some parts, with regular ceiling heights in other places, all adding to architectural interest.
Latest Update: Soren sent me a photo of the builders - having lunch, so perhaps this is why we slow down. I jokingly asked Soren (if still on site) to get them back to work LOL. They seem to be enjoying the place and the view, and no doubt something tasty:
Happy workers enjoying lunch, the view and general ambience. Go to it guys... the container is coming...
Meanwhile, other significant news is that I have retired... I got 'out from under' 5 years before my normal retirement age. Yay. My colleagues joined me for drinks at a local pub, with some 16 of us then going onto Zizzi's Italian restaurant on the Brayford Marina in Lincoln, which was organised by the team.
My 'oppo', Craig and his lovely girlfriend Clair... just a couple of the many people who turned up at the pub for drinks and farewells. A ripping evening was had by all. Funny on this photo that Craig has gone into romantic soft focus... it must be the gleaming teeth that did it. :)
My dearest friend Cher, who accompanied me on my visit to the Azores when originally looking for a house to buy... she came over for my retirement and was a lovely companion for the event. As ever, just chilled and lovely.
They bought me some lovely leaving presents, including a nice sun hat (wot?) a t-shirt and a fleecy hoodie... and a leather wallet stuffed with euros :)
They had a bit of a job with presents, because they knew I was leaving with just a carry on rucksack... so the obligatory clock or other such keepsake was out of the question!
But better than any gift was the love and genuine good karma felt from these guys. It was, it has to be said, a bit of a tearful farewell. I will miss them very much.
Next Up - Away the Lads
