Six Old Buildings Become Innovative New Homes

by Laura Malesich (RSS feed)
Dec 17th 2007 at 8:02AM

The old Clare Island Lighthouse off the coast of Ireland makes for a stunning piece of property. Built in 1806, covering approximately 3,600 square feet and sporting three round rooms, this luxurious compound is complete with refurbished towers and multiple outbuildings. This home will certainly keep the wind in your hair and a salty breeze through your window. The price is $2.835 million.

An Italian convent in Tuscany was restored in 2003 to suit a new household. With simple austerity and 1,000+ years of beautiful aging makes this property a unique find for any homeowner. With nearly an acre of grounds and gardens and a possible annex ready for some sprucing up this home sounds like it is worth the $1.755 million.

Although I don't picture myself as a fairytale princess I have always wanted to live in a castle. Drafty but full of history, culture, and ambiance. This Belgian castle is no different. For $4.25 million, the 18th century castle sits on ten acres of land and includes a swimming pool, tennis court and pond. Holding eight rooms and four baths it would be magnificent for a holiday vacation!

Gallery: Six Old Buildings Become Innovative New Homes

The English Rectory in Bluntisham, UK has modern amenities mixed with old world charm. The heated indoor pool and central gas-fired heating usher in the comforts of home among the cornices, period fireplaces and high ceilings. Two acres of landscaped grounds complete the picture for $3.47 million.

Although the U.S. is not as old it certainly has some beautiful homes to boast about. The Opera House in Croton-on-Hudson, NY may only have four bedrooms and 3.5 baths but it has a famous history. Katherine Hepburn, Cary Grant, and Spencer Tracy all once resided within its walls. Built in the late 19th century it features a comfortable atmosphere with grand touches for $2.35 million.

Once a barn now a converted home just one hour's train ride from NYC this Victorian Barn in Somers, NY has a rural feel amidst the sprawling metropolis that surrounds the area. Built in the 1870's and providing more than 5,000 square feet of space it boast four fireplaces, a gourmet kitchen and hand millwork throughout the home. $1.875 million is the price tag on this home.

So whether your next home has a background of lighting up dark places, housing the faithful, or sustaining a family, the character we see in these six converted homes is astonishing.

Tags: belgian-castle, clare-island, english-rectory, italian-convent, lighthouse, new-york, opera-house, victorian-barn