This was the last house available this Xmas, & we desperately needed a break, so we grabbed it.
We've been coming to Bendalong for years, and know our way around the village, and despite some rainy weather it was good to be back. But it's the poor weather operation of this house that really challenges you - the living room is outdoors. Which in these COVID times was oddly an upside, but in terms of comfort, especially in the cool and rain, it was a big downside.
A few other details we struggled with. The additional bedrooms are old covered old sheds outside, and have water coming up through the concrete floor - not ideal. Also, the cutlery, plates, glasses and utensils were all either old, cheap, an odd assortment or missing. Nothing a $100 at IKEA could have fixed - if only. Ceiling fans would have been another inexpensive added touch that would improve comfort.
The kitchen is very basic, and is in desperate need of more bench space and dishwasher. This could be improved by a simple Island Bench that could easily first with the small timber dining table. Lucky we bought out own fold-up table to help make it more functional.
As an architect I saw so much potential in this house - especially the challenging idea of an outdoor room with the fireplace and BBQ. But this potential needs to be realised better than it has been. Maybe a project for the future.