In addition to the oven area, I hope you will cover the rebuilt walls for the winter, to keep moisture out which could then freeze and break the walls. I'm amazed that you were able to find grills that fit! I'd have to look through the earlier videos, but did you find the door to the iron oven during your excavations?
Dude keep digging. You have gone from cutting brambles to laying stone. This is so awesome. That little area is a perfect sunset perch with a lady and a bottle of wine and a pizza. Now that winter is here maybe concentrate on removing more dead vegetation. You did good here. Keep hammering. Cheers from Texas.
It's a perfect spot for a barbie and entertaining. You could keep digging and build it like a house again. But you'll get more use out of it if you tidy the rest of it up and use it as an entertainment area. It's great and it's going to be great.....love it 👍
I’d suggest keeping the sidewall next to the entrance low so it can be used as seating. You’d still be able to have your gothic arch, it would just end lower on that side.
Idle hands are the Devil's playthings. Every man needs a proper ongoing project. You, my friend, just so happened to stumble upon something incredibly special. Looking forward to following your adventures here. Your vision for the project is ambitious. It's one of those fun projects that will never REALLY end until you are too old to continue. I hope you and your family get decades of use from the space.
I love the gate and arch idea! The really nice thing about doing this project by yourself is that while you are digging and taking your time, new ideas present themselves as you uncover something wonderfully unexpected. Just enjoy the process and know you are doing a great job!
1:31👍 you are slapping the Walls because they are an expression of yourself and your ingenuity. That is the good thing about physical labour - you could touch the products of your work and thougts in contast to an Excelsheet in the office.
Brother, I thank you so much for the update. Been following and watching for a couple of years now it seems. Appreciate what you're doing. San Diego California fan ❤.
@2:50 If you want to experiment with height for the charcoal just put firebricks in the bottom of this area so you. can see if you like the greater height. I would consider keeping one of the walls low enough so that it can be used as seating without needing to jump up on to it, as you said it's a small space and you would benefit from the additional seating option. You may want to consider building a raised bed for gardening, having herbs etc growing near the cooking area would be lovely.
I would built a pergola out of timber to the last side of the ruins. That would be easy to tear down once you find more flooring/another house behind the wall. And you could have nice plants growing up or falling down from those pergola woods.
I’d definitely be planning to put some kind of roof over it eventually. It would protect it from the weather and make it useable in any weather. Plus it will help retain some heat when using the area in the cold.
You, my friend, are a lucky man to have found a treasure in his backyard. You can do whatever you choose to do, and if you don't like it, change it. Thank you for sharing this part of your life's journey or adventure.
I've been watching since you first started and I'm delighted you're creating exactly what I thought the site required; to discover and rebuild it and to remake it your own and enjoy it. Bravo sir.
An open pergola would fit well over the seating area with a simple, sturdy wooden picnic table beneath. It's also possibly a good place to grow some grapes for additional shade and for color variety, if you make wine, or just to snack on. The stairs could use a small rain drainage channel on one side to avoid a slippery, muddy surface across the stairs, since they will drain the kitchen and path. The bricks remind you it was a maintained, living house before it became a ruin, so maybe keep them in for a while? If the iron oven is still functional, perhaps it could be used for hot-smoking fish and meats? Love the work and thank you for sharing it!
Good point about the drainage, need to come up with a plan for that. although I would only use the space when the weather is very good, but still needs considering.
Wow it is looking amazing 👏 . Your pizza oven has the look of a old style kiln , that will hold the heat really well. When you were walking around I visualised pretty fairy light and it would look so pretty. You have done so well and should be so proud of yourself. This is the best recycling I have ever seen. You can put some oil on the flag stones to bring out there true colour , i think that would look good.
some kind of drop-in Santa Maria style grill would be awesome in that grill area. That way it would be adjustable. Also, what about building a wooden pergola shade structure over the whole structure? that way you could clean up those stumps and really open it up without sacrificing the shade? Everything looks awesome as is, though. I'm jealous! That is a DIY'er's dream find! Keep up the good work!
Your videos are the coolest. It’s so fun to be on this journey with you, even virtually lol. I love seeing history dug up and incorporated into our modern lives
I'm not a BBQ nerd but I think you might want to consider two aspects. 1) You might want to leave the height of the grilles adjustable so you can lower them when the heat is going down and 2) It might be a good idea to somehow be able to control airflow from underneath rather than having a solid surface underneath the fire.
I really like your plans for the three sides and steps. I would make that last side into a wall that is seating height, but with a back. That way, it serves two purposes-as seating, and as storage space if you need that more. Easy to make different size pedestals of rock on the seat to set different objects on-candles, bowls, artifacts you found etc., but which can be moved or taken down as needed.
The potential for the opposite side of the kitchen is endless. Forefront in my mind is a stone fireplace, where your family and guests can cozy up to while enjoying pizza and pints of Guinness. Future excavation of the back area will open up your options even more. A dry area to store and season your firewood, an open garden area, a solarium roofed sunroom, etc... What ever you elect to do, I will be following with anticipation!
Before you even mentioned a gate, I was thinking a cast iron one would fit in nicely with what you've already done; but far be it from me to think l know better than a genuinely clever and talented man such as yourself.
Great work so far buddy! Looks amazing. Love the idea of the higher wall and entrance arc. Maybe add beams when building up the higher wall for a wood awning/pergol? Haha, would be nice to have some shade and/or be protected from rain but you can make that call.
Like the archway idea. When you view the stairway from the street I can so clearly see an archway way for your gate entrance, what do you think? Cheers!
I honestly just love how this has progressed! I’m always looking forward to your next videos to see what you have built or uncovered. Must be quite a feeling for you, knowing all of this was right under your feet the entire time you grew up! 😂
yes, it's strange, I remember digging up the same sort of area as a young kid, but never found it. otherwise I would have made it in to a childhood play den or something!
Check out a "Santa Maria" BBQ grill. It can be placed above your fire pit. It would allow you to raise or lower the grill surface through a series of pulleys. I'm impressed with your workmanship. Bite the bullet and get a chain saw and remove all the stumps including the large one. You can always plant a proper shade tree.
I really think you should get rid of the huge stump, sure it will be a big pain in the backside to get rid of but will look better and you can walk along the ruin more easy and for shade you could plant something new. Will it not look kind of wonky if you cut i straight on just one side? Just my opinion, looking forward to seeing what you do with the rest :)
Well, I can only suggest to make some display to show a few curious things you've found on digging (maybe at one of your future shelves), a tiny museum of this place. Anyway, I believe you'll make a great patio for yourself, and it's up to you, how that's all will look. The arch is very interesting idea, I've never seen someone actually builds an arch, it's going to be one more exclusive thing I see on your channel. Love your work here, keep going!
I love how you're already making use out of the space even as the excavation continues. You'll have so many lovely evenings cooking out in the kitchen area and contemplating what to do next.
Hi Afon, I think the stump needs to go! Maybe you could use the wood in the project for the gate or something, but it’s detracts away from the brilliant work you’ve done on the walls. Hope you get a company to give you a fantastic chainsaw to help with it :-)
Don't forget to make a herb garden. Be it raised bed or pots. Basil, rosemary, thyme, mint, spring onions, even cherry tomatoes for the pizza. Mushrooms would be nice as well. Well placed rotted logs or perma bags laced with mushroom spores.
I would make a lovely patio seating area ( if possible) behind the BBQ area it would be lovely to sit out there and look over the beautiful area on a nice day whilst waiting for your pizza or bbq food xx
If you put a canopy over it, and run an electric service line, or extension cord to it, you could rent it out, possibly through AirBNB, as a cozy spot for anniversaries, graduation parties, birthdays, and special events. 60 to 110 dollars for a 12 hour rental period? Thank you for the update, and please continue on with your renovation. Have a good week!
I am really looking forward to seeing more transformations of the site! I love the idea of an arched entrance and having shelves in the new wall. A climbing rose would be really pretty growing on that wall.
Don't care how long you want to take to get it right. Just loving every video you put out! It's looking fab! You've worked so hard. Well done with what you have achieved so far 👍
Very very excited to see you startingvto work on this project again. Keep up the hard work. I'm sure you tube will spring forward with more views the more work you do on this project..hurry up ol chap..😊
This channel continues to fulfill a childhood fantasy of mine...finding a hidden treasure/ castle in the garden. It always makes me smile, thank you and happy holidays!
amazing! i think some stone garden boxes (maybe built in to the low walls, or level with them so you can just reach over and pick things) would be great. for pizza herbs and other things you want to put on grilled food.
should be relatively easy, with your skill set! i would recommend a buried pipe going out at the bottom for drainage if you live in a super wet spot, but most herbs grow great in any old box of dirt without special care. some are perennials or will pop back up from seeds in the same spot. @@afontirs
Don't do anything permanent to raise the base height of the grill until you've grilled on it for a while. If it needs to be higher just use some proper masonry bricks to stack your coals on. When you get used to what you like THEN make adjustments. As far as plants to grow, may I suggest nasturtiums? Lovely edible flowers and large peppery leaves that go well with burgers as greens. If you'd like an arch and arbor type deal, try green beans. Nice flowers, hummingbirds love them, free beans, and they need to be renewed every year. Lets you decide if you really like the idea before you commit to roses or spend money on clematis.
Hey Brother, if you will take 1/2 bleach and water and spray the old green stones and rinse it off after 20 to 30 minutes it’ll get rid of the green mold and any other miss color things, you probably know this stuff but just a thought anyway great job so far and looking forward to seeing your next project thanks Lee from Tennessee.
Great video again, super project! You’re very likable, and amazing work! A layer of dry fit brick is cheap and easy. Nice to be able to ‘test drive’ it. A head high wall might be too much. Take care: plan what you see from the road thru the arch. ‘Conceal and reveal.’ Do steps where you do steps, then continuous flat or ramp where you do flat. Don’t do steps then different steps then flat. Should be doable in the dark with eyes closed. Bet you could handle the stump with a hammer and chisel and junk hand saws. You’re clearly not afraid to put in time! Can’t wait!
I would bet every ancient stone oven, ever built, was "just how it turned out." A couple of four foot long, church pew-style benches in the corner (behind you in the last shot) could create a seating area and take up less space than a centred table and chairs. A few outdoor cushions for comfortable bottoms and backs, would be nice. From there you and guests can really enjoy that beautiful view. Just a thought. I always love to see what you come up with, letting the space you dig out spark ideas.
I do Rock work in the mountains at my high altitude log cabin. I did a black slate tree surrounded by granite. A sun also above a door. I took lessons from a guy in North fork ca. Jason. When I get my back fixed. I have a small rock space left. Where I will make a trout fish and a bird. I will be all done with the bottom of my cabin in rock. I love that you saved it this old project. Tracy Auberry Ca
I love all your ideas! Especially the gate and the Archway! You’ve done a brilliant job and I have enjoyed watching your progress. thank you for sharing! Pam in northern Arizona
Personally I love arch ways way too much, so I would make an exactly same style archway also to over the gate by the road (also maybe put thesame kind of a climbing/wining plant there that you choose for the high kichen wall (I'm a bit too machy-mathy I'm sometimes told) - also I would order a cast iron gate, but the wooden gate is much more homely and warm, so I can see the appeal also with that. Also you can keep it natural, or varnish, stain or paint it :) I just have always seen in my mind there a black, not too heavyset, a bit twirly - not too much - {cast} iron gate.. If one would the extremely overly matchy-matchy one might do the top of the iron gate mirror the arch shape(over it, or seen up the path?) , but that might be a bit too much. Even if it can add the height for the gate a bit sneakily, so maybe the opening lock can be a bit higher so one doesn't need to bend to open it. But keeping it looking lighter. Your hard (and beautiful) work with the path from the gate to the kitchen archway could fully be seen through an iron gate. Also I would make one or two steps more on the stairs, and then keep the path level, and have one step that could be on the low side, at the entrance to the 'summer kitchen', as we call outdoor kitchens. :)
If you cut back the stump don't cut it to the same line as the newly built wall. Cut it back more as the stump is a living thing and will grow suckers to the walkway. if you cut the stump same line as wall you will be cutting so much new growth all summer to keep the path open
The wall you wanted to use for seating to the right of the grill could become a bar top. You could shoulder up a couple tall bar stools and poof. You could also use that low step next to the grill to hold an ice chest or a keg. If you ever change your mind and decide to build in a cover for the space. I'd recommend you only cover half the space. From the door over the outdoor kitchen. Leave the other half open for the nice months. When you can just sit at a table and chill. One other thought if you have left over stone is to build a wood storage into the tall wall you want to make next to the pizza oven. Nothing wrong with a wheel barrow. But why work harder if you don't have to? Plus everytime you use the oven you'll be seasoning the wood at the same time thanks to the heat. That would make it an all weather spot.
Thanks for documenting your projects like this and sharing your work with us. I got hooked from the first one I saw a while back and the last couple you uploaded I watched straight through immediately. Really admire how you're going about things.
Love the Plan! One thing I would do is add flag stones to the opposite side of the stove wall for flooring. Mount a large timber or live edge wood slab to the wall spanning from the short wall to the rounded wall of the pizza oven. Then Purchase some outdoor bar stools. Extra seating around the grill. :)
@@afontirs Another thought. In the "other building" if you took a 1 or 2 foot long rod of steel (Grind down a point on one end) Drive it into the ground at various points. It would be easier to figure if there is stone below the dirt. I wonder if the foundation is lower that the previous house. Another possibly is it only had a mud floor for livestock or a crawl space with a timber floor. I am not a professional, I'm just an enthusiast. Again, Love the channel and the EPIC work your doing! It looks beautiful!
@@r-d6568 The problem with that is there is stone everywhere because of the collapsed walls, so the whole ground is full of large stones. no way to tell if you're hitting wall or a pile of stones that have fallen off the wall!
the work you put into this is amazing. The digging through roots and stone alone... I don't think i could think of anything more imporessive to add than what you've already done.
Awesome plans, really enjoy watching this series. If i were you i would make 1-3 more proper steps on the stair and then just a straight walkway in level with the floor. I think that's easier, faster and becuse deep steps sucks 😂 Do a simple roof, you can use it more and during a longer time. And if you have a roof and some kind of heater it's easier to mount and gets more effective.
Well, I guess there goes my suggestion. I would have loved to see wooden beams holding up a sloped shed roof, but that's already been shot down 🙂 I love the idea of some shelves built into the back wall, and the arch, I'm looking forward to seeing more progress. Thank you for sharing!
I think that needs various permissions and so on, makes it much more complicated. and I only use it when the weather is very good, so can manage without cover.
I am curious about the location of your house in relation to the outdoor kitchen. How will you and guests access the kitchen? You will need to bring supplies when you cook and will want easy access to your refrigerator and maybe a bathroom.
What you have done so far is amazing to preserve the original features. I love the idea of having a contrast between new and old. Uplighting shrubs in a rendered planter with olives etc, perhaps a horizontal cedar fence where you were saying you wanted to build the wall higher. You could add an Indian sandstone patio in the transitional area between the ruins. So many possibilities, I’m excited for you! I would love somewhere like this to hide a sauna and plunge pool but what a huge project.
Love your video's and so glad I found them. When you were describing a wall with shelves opposite the pizza oven, a wall of herbs popped into my head, you could pick them as required for pizzas and salads. I think you won't find a sink with water and waste really useful for your parties, less to carry to and fro. And a jacuzzi in the next room you excavate... You have already done an amazing job of clearing and renewing. I love it.
Finish to existing level( 1 metre high) Build timber framing on top of wall, to carry pitched roof! Area waterproof to use even when raining. Timber framing is classed as temp. so no need for planning permission. Good luck.
You could build the recessed shelving on the high wall on the same axis as the entrence way. That way when you walk up the stairs you have a focal point infront of you instead of just straight wall
You're slapping the walls subconsciously because you are proud of your excellent work!
In addition to the oven area, I hope you will cover the rebuilt walls for the winter, to keep moisture out which could then freeze and break the walls. I'm amazed that you were able to find grills that fit! I'd have to look through the earlier videos, but did you find the door to the iron oven during your excavations?
Slapping the stone wall is great. I believe you are proud of your beautiful work. Well done. ❤️❤️❤️.
Dude keep digging. You have gone from cutting brambles to laying stone. This is so awesome. That little area is a perfect sunset perch with a lady and a bottle of wine and a pizza. Now that winter is here maybe concentrate on removing more dead vegetation. You did good here. Keep hammering. Cheers from Texas.
Thanks. I will definitely be doing more clearing over the winter.
It's a perfect spot for a barbie and entertaining. You could keep digging and build it like a house again. But you'll get more use out of it if you tidy the rest of it up and use it as an entertainment area. It's great and it's going to be great.....love it 👍
Looking forward to watching this transformation!
I’d suggest keeping the sidewall next to the entrance low so it can be used as seating. You’d still be able to have your gothic arch, it would just end lower on that side.
An arch sounds like a lovely addition and you’ve been very wise not to ruin that lovely view with a high wall 👍😊
We slap things when we’re proud of (building) them!
I am so glad you are going to continue sharing your vision with us. I look forward to your videos.
Love the idea of the left wall. You could grow herbs to put fresh on your pizza and grilling. Looks greats.
Looking great dude, I'm really enjoying seeing your progress.
Idle hands are the Devil's playthings. Every man needs a proper ongoing project. You, my friend, just so happened to stumble upon something incredibly special. Looking forward to following your adventures here. Your vision for the project is ambitious. It's one of those fun projects that will never REALLY end until you are too old to continue. I hope you and your family get decades of use from the space.
Wise words .. gratitude mate
Thank you very much. I do feel very fortunate to have such a great project space.
Well, that came a long way from a place to park your bike! Love the pizza oven.
it definitely did!😅
A hidden treasure uncovered and resurrected. Absolutely wonderful!!
What a gorgeous outdoor kitchen!!! 😋😋😋
I love what you've done so far, and it's fun watching your progress. I personally would make it into a cabin for retreats, just for myself and my dog.
I love the gate and arch idea! The really nice thing about doing this project by yourself is that while you are digging and taking your time, new ideas present themselves as you uncover something wonderfully unexpected. Just enjoy the process and know you are doing a great job!
1:31👍 you are slapping the Walls because they are an expression of yourself and your ingenuity.
That is the good thing about physical labour - you could touch the products of your work and thougts in contast to an Excelsheet in the office.
Brother, I thank you so much for the update. Been following and watching for a couple of years now it seems.
Appreciate what you're doing. San Diego California fan ❤.
@2:50 If you want to experiment with height for the charcoal just put firebricks in the bottom of this area so you. can see if you like the greater height. I would consider keeping one of the walls low enough so that it can be used as seating without needing to jump up on to it, as you said it's a small space and you would benefit from the additional seating option. You may want to consider building a raised bed for gardening, having herbs etc growing near the cooking area would be lovely.
Second the idea of a an herb garden- maybe an extra alcove in the taller wall where you plan to hang tools specifically for the herbs?
I like the idea of a lower wall to sit on. 🙂
@@mirkatu3249 Yes, around knee height would be great!
Good idea, I've got spare fire bricks. and yes to the herb garden, a few people have mentioned that.
I would built a pergola out of timber to the last side of the ruins. That would be easy to tear down once you find more flooring/another house behind the wall. And you could have nice plants growing up or falling down from those pergola woods.
Cant wait. Please share updates.
I’d definitely be planning to put some kind of roof over it eventually. It would protect it from the weather and make it useable in any weather. Plus it will help retain some heat when using the area in the cold.
You, my friend, are a lucky man to have found a treasure in his backyard. You can do whatever you choose to do, and if you don't like it, change it. Thank you for sharing this part of your life's journey or adventure.
I'm sure I will make changes and come up with new ideas as I go. thanks
I've been watching since you first started and I'm delighted you're creating exactly what I thought the site required; to discover and rebuild it and to remake it your own and enjoy it. Bravo sir.
I'm looking forward to what you next
An open pergola would fit well over the seating area with a simple, sturdy wooden picnic table beneath. It's also possibly a good place to grow some grapes for additional shade and for color variety, if you make wine, or just to snack on. The stairs could use a small rain drainage channel on one side to avoid a slippery, muddy surface across the stairs, since they will drain the kitchen and path. The bricks remind you it was a maintained, living house before it became a ruin, so maybe keep them in for a while? If the iron oven is still functional, perhaps it could be used for hot-smoking fish and meats? Love the work and thank you for sharing it!
You got it?
I had no idea grapes could be grown in Wales - I had to google it and was astonished! The pergola with grape vines is a superb idea.
I think that as well, although not sure grapes would grow in Wales sadly. Would look cool with lights
I agree about leaving the bricks in place. They are part of the history of the place. Someone put in the effort to maintain the stairs.
Good point about the drainage, need to come up with a plan for that. although I would only use the space when the weather is very good, but still needs considering.
Wow it is looking amazing 👏 . Your pizza oven has the look of a old style kiln , that will hold the heat really well. When you were walking around I visualised pretty fairy light and it would look so pretty. You have done so well and should be so proud of yourself. This is the best recycling I have ever seen. You can put some oil on the flag stones to bring out there true colour , i think that would look good.
some kind of drop-in Santa Maria style grill would be awesome in that grill area. That way it would be adjustable. Also, what about building a wooden pergola shade structure over the whole structure? that way you could clean up those stumps and really open it up without sacrificing the shade? Everything looks awesome as is, though. I'm jealous! That is a DIY'er's dream find! Keep up the good work!
I love the first wall because the view is so beautiful and calming. The only reason to raise the wall is for wind protection. But that VIEW!! ❤️❤️
Your videos are the coolest. It’s so fun to be on this journey with you, even virtually lol. I love seeing history dug up and incorporated into our modern lives
I'm not a BBQ nerd but I think you might want to consider two aspects. 1) You might want to leave the height of the grilles adjustable so you can lower them when the heat is going down and 2) It might be a good idea to somehow be able to control airflow from underneath rather than having a solid surface underneath the fire.
Great plans - it's going to look terrific!
dang i can't wait to see the process of this i like the plans an gothic arch im ready when you are boss
I really like your plans for the three sides and steps. I would make that last side into a wall that is seating height, but with a back. That way, it serves two purposes-as seating, and as storage space if you need that more. Easy to make different size pedestals of rock on the seat to set different objects on-candles, bowls, artifacts you found etc., but which can be moved or taken down as needed.
I like that idea! thanks
The potential for the opposite side of the kitchen is endless. Forefront in my mind is a stone fireplace, where your family and guests can cozy up to while enjoying pizza and pints of Guinness. Future excavation of the back area will open up your options even more. A dry area to store and season your firewood, an open garden area, a solarium roofed sunroom, etc... What ever you elect to do, I will be following with anticipation!
Before you even mentioned a gate, I was thinking a cast iron one would fit in nicely with what you've already done; but far be it from me to think l know better than a genuinely clever and talented man such as yourself.
I think you did an incredible job so far! A gate would be lovely at the bottom of the steps,. 🙂
Great work so far buddy! Looks amazing. Love the idea of the higher wall and entrance arc. Maybe add beams when building up the higher wall for a wood awning/pergol? Haha, would be nice to have some shade and/or be protected from rain but you can make that call.
A nice pergola in there will look great in there with climbing plants providing shade in the summer
Well done! Looking forward to the the videos and the work!
To the left of the Piza oven o would build another storage area for your wood.
This will save you moving wood as often.
Great video
Like the archway idea. When you view the stairway from the street I can so clearly see an archway way for your gate entrance, what do you think? Cheers!
I love your plans. It is so interesting finding the building remains. Hopefully building #2 will cooperate and give you a floor!
I hope so!
I honestly just love how this has progressed! I’m always looking forward to your next videos to see what you have built or uncovered. Must be quite a feeling for you, knowing all of this was right under your feet the entire time you grew up! 😂
yes, it's strange, I remember digging up the same sort of area as a young kid, but never found it. otherwise I would have made it in to a childhood play den or something!
The area will be beautiful when you finish. Good luck.
Gothic architecture is my absolute favorite, so a Gothic arch doorway sounds perfect to me. I'm looking forward to see what's next.😊
Nice surprise to find an update so soon 😊
Looking forward to seeing the gate, as well as your fist pizza!
Wow, it looks wonderful! I’m looking forward to following along for the rest of it.
Check out a "Santa Maria" BBQ grill. It can be placed above your fire pit. It would allow you to raise or lower the grill surface through a series of pulleys. I'm impressed with your workmanship. Bite the bullet and get a chain saw and remove all the stumps including the large one. You can always plant a proper shade tree.
true, i might plant a nicer tree at a later date
You have done an amazing job! 👍🏻✌🏻💞😊
That all sounds great, looking forward to the updates !
1:24 "I'm so lazy" yes of course, this is clearly what you're known for - NOT ! 🤔😂
I really think you should get rid of the huge stump, sure it will be a big pain in the backside to get rid of but will look better and you can walk along the ruin more easy and for shade you could plant something new. Will it not look kind of wonky if you cut i straight on just one side?
Just my opinion, looking forward to seeing what you do with the rest :)
yes other people have said that, maybe I will. I can always try cutting out a chunk and then reconsider.
Well, I can only suggest to make some display to show a few curious things you've found on digging (maybe at one of your future shelves), a tiny museum of this place. Anyway, I believe you'll make a great patio for yourself, and it's up to you, how that's all will look.
The arch is very interesting idea, I've never seen someone actually builds an arch, it's going to be one more exclusive thing I see on your channel. Love your work here, keep going!
I remember back to the beginning when you 1st discovered your ruins.
Little window spot u could fit a small ice chest to keep drinks cool
You might want to get a tall, heavy metal gate at the street-side. It would be a bit more secure, just sayin'..
🙏🏻💪🙏🏻
Nice work. Thanks for sharing.
I love how you're already making use out of the space even as the excavation continues. You'll have so many lovely evenings cooking out in the kitchen area and contemplating what to do next.
Hi Afon, I think the stump needs to go! Maybe you could use the wood in the project for the gate or something, but it’s detracts away from the brilliant work you’ve done on the walls. Hope you get a company to give you a fantastic chainsaw to help with it :-)
I might have second thoughts and remove it. I agree it would make the entranceway look better and reveal the walls.
Don't forget to make a herb garden. Be it raised bed or pots. Basil, rosemary, thyme, mint, spring onions, even cherry tomatoes for the pizza. Mushrooms would be nice as well. Well placed rotted logs or perma bags laced with mushroom spores.
I would make a lovely patio seating area ( if possible) behind the BBQ area it would be lovely to sit out there and look over the beautiful area on a nice day whilst waiting for your pizza or bbq food xx
Make yourself a check off list, because your ideas and plans will make great videos.
If you put a canopy over it, and run an electric service line, or extension cord to it, you could rent it out, possibly through AirBNB, as a cozy spot for anniversaries, graduation parties, birthdays, and special events. 60 to 110 dollars for a 12 hour rental period? Thank you for the update, and please continue on with your renovation. Have a good week!
I am really looking forward to seeing more transformations of the site! I love the idea of an arched entrance and having shelves in the new wall. A climbing rose would be really pretty growing on that wall.
Don't care how long you want to take to get it right. Just loving every video you put out! It's looking fab! You've worked so hard. Well done with what you have achieved so far 👍
Very very excited to see you startingvto work on this project again. Keep up the hard work. I'm sure you tube will spring forward with more views the more work you do on this project..hurry up ol chap..😊
what a perfect spot for an outdoor fireplace. Once the grilling is done and the sun goes down, the ambience of a nice fireplace would be killer
This channel continues to fulfill a childhood fantasy of mine...finding a hidden treasure/ castle in the garden. It always makes me smile, thank you and happy holidays!
do not forget herbs for your cooking area
amazing! i think some stone garden boxes (maybe built in to the low walls, or level with them so you can just reach over and pick things) would be great. for pizza herbs and other things you want to put on grilled food.
I have thought about that, stone trough type planters.
should be relatively easy, with your skill set! i would recommend a buried pipe going out at the bottom for drainage if you live in a super wet spot, but most herbs grow great in any old box of dirt without special care. some are perennials or will pop back up from seeds in the same spot. @@afontirs
Don't do anything permanent to raise the base height of the grill until you've grilled on it for a while. If it needs to be higher just use some proper masonry bricks to stack your coals on. When you get used to what you like THEN make adjustments. As far as plants to grow, may I suggest nasturtiums? Lovely edible flowers and large peppery leaves that go well with burgers as greens. If you'd like an arch and arbor type deal, try green beans. Nice flowers, hummingbirds love them, free beans, and they need to be renewed every year. Lets you decide if you really like the idea before you commit to roses or spend money on clematis.
Sadly we do not get humming birds in Wales!
Love it.
Hey Brother, if you will take 1/2 bleach and water and spray the old green stones and rinse it off after 20 to 30 minutes it’ll get rid of the green mold and any other miss color things, you probably know this stuff but just a thought anyway great job so far and looking forward to seeing your next project thanks Lee from Tennessee.
It's not mould at all. Moss. It's beautiful !!!
@@rridderbusch518 that’s mold what I’m talking about.
Great video again, super project! You’re very likable, and amazing work!
A layer of dry fit brick is cheap and easy. Nice to be able to ‘test drive’ it.
A head high wall might be too much. Take care: plan what you see from the road thru the arch. ‘Conceal and reveal.’
Do steps where you do steps, then continuous flat or ramp where you do flat. Don’t do steps then different steps then flat. Should be doable in the dark with eyes closed.
Bet you could handle the stump with a hammer and chisel and junk hand saws. You’re clearly not afraid to put in time!
Can’t wait!
I would bet every ancient stone oven, ever built, was "just how it turned out." A couple of four foot long, church pew-style benches in the corner (behind you in the last shot) could create a seating area and take up less space than a centred table and chairs. A few outdoor cushions for comfortable bottoms and backs, would be nice. From there you and guests can really enjoy that beautiful view. Just a thought. I always love to see what you come up with, letting the space you dig out spark ideas.
I like that idea. I look at reclamation places for different things, and I've seen some selling old church pews
You are doing an amazing job on this! I love what you have done and the future plans sound great!
Well done and can’t wait to see how the project develops. It will be an amazing gathering space when the weather allows! 😊
I do Rock work in the mountains at my high altitude log cabin. I did a black slate tree surrounded by granite. A sun also above a door. I took lessons from a guy in North fork ca. Jason. When I get my back fixed. I have a small rock space left. Where I will make a trout fish and a bird. I will be all done with the bottom of my cabin in rock.
I love that you saved it this old project. Tracy Auberry Ca
I love all your ideas! Especially the gate and the Archway! You’ve done a brilliant job and I have enjoyed watching your progress. thank you for sharing! Pam in northern Arizona
Personally I love arch ways way too much, so I would make an exactly same style archway also to over the gate by the road (also maybe put thesame kind of a climbing/wining plant there that you choose for the high kichen wall (I'm a bit too machy-mathy I'm sometimes told) - also I would order a cast iron gate, but the wooden gate is much more homely and warm, so I can see the appeal also with that. Also you can keep it natural, or varnish, stain or paint it :)
I just have always seen in my mind there a black, not too heavyset, a bit twirly - not too much - {cast} iron gate.. If one would the extremely overly matchy-matchy one might do the top of the iron gate mirror the arch shape(over it, or seen up the path?) , but that might be a bit too much. Even if it can add the height for the gate a bit sneakily, so maybe the opening lock can be a bit higher so one doesn't need to bend to open it. But keeping it looking lighter. Your hard (and beautiful) work with the path from the gate to the kitchen archway could fully be seen through an iron gate.
Also I would make one or two steps more on the stairs, and then keep the path level, and have one step that could be on the low side, at the entrance to the 'summer kitchen', as we call outdoor kitchens. :)
Can't wait as usual for your personal artistic take on this fantastic historic find !👍
If you cut back the stump don't cut it to the same line as the newly built wall.
Cut it back more as the stump is a living thing and will grow suckers to the walkway.
if you cut the stump same line as wall you will be cutting so much new growth all summer to keep the path open
good point!
Great project !
Hope it gets done how you like it and you enjoy the process too
(My 7yr old lad loves your videos too!)
The wall you wanted to use for seating to the right of the grill could become a bar top. You could shoulder up a couple tall bar stools and poof. You could also use that low step next to the grill to hold an ice chest or a keg.
If you ever change your mind and decide to build in a cover for the space. I'd recommend you only cover half the space. From the door over the outdoor kitchen. Leave the other half open for the nice months. When you can just sit at a table and chill.
One other thought if you have left over stone is to build a wood storage into the tall wall you want to make next to the pizza oven. Nothing wrong with a wheel barrow. But why work harder if you don't have to? Plus everytime you use the oven you'll be seasoning the wood at the same time thanks to the heat.
That would make it an all weather spot.
I look forward to your continued reconstruction!
I think a nice seating area would be great. Nice meal in the kitchen/diner, followed by a nice conversation to finish off the party.
Thanks for documenting your projects like this and sharing your work with us. I got hooked from the first one I saw a while back and the last couple you uploaded I watched straight through immediately. Really admire how you're going about things.
Love the Plan!
One thing I would do is add flag stones to the opposite side of the stove wall for flooring. Mount a large timber or live edge wood slab to the wall spanning from the short wall to the rounded wall of the pizza oven. Then Purchase some outdoor bar stools. Extra seating around the grill. :)
that's a good idea! thanks
@@afontirs Another thought. In the "other building" if you took a 1 or 2 foot long rod of steel (Grind down a point on one end) Drive it into the ground at various points. It would be easier to figure if there is stone below the dirt.
I wonder if the foundation is lower that the previous house. Another possibly is it only had a mud floor for livestock or a crawl space with a timber floor.
I am not a professional, I'm just an enthusiast.
Again,
Love the channel and the EPIC work your doing! It looks beautiful!
@@r-d6568 The problem with that is there is stone everywhere because of the collapsed walls, so the whole ground is full of large stones. no way to tell if you're hitting wall or a pile of stones that have fallen off the wall!
@@afontirs Ahh. Dang.
the work you put into this is amazing. The digging through roots and stone alone... I don't think i could think of anything more imporessive to add than what you've already done.
SOUNDS LIKE A DEFINITE PLAN. LOVE IT!!!
Awesome plans, really enjoy watching this series.
If i were you i would make 1-3 more proper steps on the stair and then just a straight walkway in level with the floor. I think that's easier, faster and becuse deep steps sucks 😂
Do a simple roof, you can use it more and during a longer time. And if you have a roof and some kind of heater it's easier to mount and gets more effective.
Well, I guess there goes my suggestion. I would have loved to see wooden beams holding up a sloped shed roof, but that's already been shot down 🙂
I love the idea of some shelves built into the back wall, and the arch, I'm looking forward to seeing more progress. Thank you for sharing!
I think that needs various permissions and so on, makes it much more complicated. and I only use it when the weather is very good, so can manage without cover.
I am curious about the location of your house in relation to the outdoor kitchen. How will you and guests access the kitchen? You will need to bring supplies when you cook and will want easy access to your refrigerator and maybe a bathroom.
What you have done so far is amazing to preserve the original features. I love the idea of having a contrast between new and old. Uplighting shrubs in a rendered planter with olives etc, perhaps a horizontal cedar fence where you were saying you wanted to build the wall higher. You could add an Indian sandstone patio in the transitional area between the ruins. So many possibilities, I’m excited for you! I would love somewhere like this to hide a sauna and plunge pool but what a huge project.
Love your video's and so glad I found them. When you were describing a wall with shelves opposite the pizza oven, a wall of herbs popped into my head, you could pick them as required for pizzas and salads. I think you won't find a sink with water and waste really useful for your parties, less to carry to and fro. And a jacuzzi in the next room you excavate... You have already done an amazing job of clearing and renewing. I love it.
Finish to existing level( 1 metre high) Build timber framing on top of wall, to carry pitched roof! Area waterproof to use even when raining. Timber framing is classed as temp. so no need for planning permission. Good luck.
Even with the work you've done so far, it's beautiful . I hope you enjoy many summer barbecues there 😊
You could build the recessed shelving on the high wall on the same axis as the entrence way. That way when you walk up the stairs you have a focal point infront of you instead of just straight wall
good idea.
Loved your humor 😊 Living plants will add to the beauty so I liked that idea 👍💞