I seen the derelict building many times, driving past. Then scaffolding went up and thought another building lost to developer's. Then I noticed nothing was being demolished. The front face was gone then rebuilt. I slowly watched it change into a new repurposed building. I never knew the story about this, until it landed on my timeline... Thank you for saving a piece of Birkenhead history!
@@captainfancypants4933 If it was a real developer they won’t take the time to chisel some bricks for petty cash, they would have been anxious to demolish before they even get approval. Also don’t know why there is a need for an exterior scaffold to remove bricks when the inside is accessible.
I grew up in this area ( Larch Road ) 1947 -1967. I know it well and have wonderful memories of all those shops. I can't express the emotion as I watched your lovely video. You did an amazing job. I feel so proud of you even though we have never met. I live in the US now. Congratulations. ❤
Hi Elizabeth thanks so much for your lovely comment. I'm glad you enjoyed the video. My mum was born in Larch Road in 1960. Number 47 I think. Maiden name was Coppock. The area has changed a lot since then. Most of the old buildings were knocked down in the 80's when Borough road was widened. Hopefully the building will be here for many years to come. All the best, Stephen.
@@newdawnrecordings how random to read this comment & see the name Coppack, my grandmas came from Liverpool & her maiden name was Coppack, is it a common name there as it’s not a name iv ever heard off?
Mate, you deserve every success possible. The determination to commit to a 5 year project like this and pull it off is astounding. I hope the new business pays off.
well done Steve, as a resident, ive walked past every day and watched this eye sore turn into something the whole road should aspire to, the building is an asset now thanks to your hard work, you should be proud mate, only next time dont let your pride take over, i for one woulda loved to help you in this venture if i had known you were alone. thats what neighbours do, although tbf, looks like you did a hell of a job mate. Hope the flood didnt do you too much damage, was gutted to see you take the brunt of it. fantastic job mate, am in awe.
Mike thanks a lot for watching the video and for taking the time to leave a comment. I completely understand what you mean about pride and could have reached out to more people for help. Although I have worked alone for a long time in my profession and am used to it. I did also have help from friends and family as well as a great group of professional local tradesmen. I would recommend all of them and their contact details are at the end of the video and also on my website if you are ever in need of a tradesman. I was extremely fortunate with the flood, luckily the shutters held off most of it and only a small amount managed to seep in through the shop front door seals. I had an industrial dehumidifier in there for about a week and only suffered minor damage. The shop next door and the Deen centre were badly affected. Thanks again and all the best, Stephen ☀️
To be fair, I'd go out of my way to take photos of the before and after. Still, as one obsessed with the decayed and abandoned, I also love it when people do renovate a neglected place.
It's alwsys so heartwarming to see people appreciate the buildings we already have instead of tearing them down or leaving them to fall into dis-repair. You did an absolutely amazing and sensitive job of bringing this building back to life. Well done young man.👏👏👏👏
probably couldn't tear it down even if he wanted to since its over 70 years old and is probably a heritage building so changing how it looks on the exterior can't be changed under no circumstances.
I'm thankful RUclips randomly opted to pop this up in my feed, such a joy to watch; well done. And I love all the comments from residents who were thankful you kept the buildings aesthetics. Looking forward to discovering new music through your channel
You can tell Steve is a proper Joiner and a good one at that as everything he did was totally square and straight and level . I am a Joiner myself of over 30 years and can totally appreciate the work you put in well done Lad.
Mate you are an absolute beast. I’m a builder here in Australia and I always appreciate watching passionate builders like yourself start and finish a project almost entirely by yourself. Well done mate you should be really proud of that fantastic build.
@@alfiebeddows6150 it seems weapon is seen as an insult in Liverpool 😂😂 I edited my comment and hopefully beast isn’t code for pedophile or serial killer
One has to be so careful, what passes in Australia as a compliment, not quite the same in England. But I agree with you, this was a fabulous job, a build from the heart making a dual purpose home for himself. Love to see old buildings reborn again. Cheers from 🇦🇺
@@rm_con I’m in NSW. FYI…. My monika is the car I drive, a KIA 4WD Black Sorrento. I have been associated with the building industry since marrying an architect. Usually involved in the administrative side of building. But that doesn’t mean I can’t appreciate the skill of different trades, over the years I have been on plenty of construction sites. My late husband specialised in second storey work, quite often gutting houses to their existing footprint in the eastern suburbs of Sydney, much as this one had to be. He won many housing awards, both HIA and Master Builders. Sorry if you thought I was a fellow builder……
I used to get the 472 into Birkenhead/Liverpool to go to college/uni and always thought what a beautiful building this was as I went past and what a shame it’d hadn’t been shown some love. It warms my heart that you have saved it. It truly is amazing what you have done!
That was incredible, you've saved a piece of your local history and you should be commended upon that, The finish and design are outstanding throughout, an absolute joy to watch from start to end.
Steve, congratulations! I know this area, and I’ve seen it deteriorate over the years. The council should thank you for helping bring life back to Birkenhead. What a beautiful home and business you’ve created - you deserve every success, and some better birthdays 🥳 How proud your uncle would be of you x
Wow, congratulations on finishing your beautiful house and, seriously as a local, I personally thank you for saving one of Birkenhead's more unique buildings that would have been lost to us otherwise. Lovely to see the pillars remain on the front just like the shop at other end of that block. You did an amazing job, a real labour of love :)
As a female master carpenter of 44 years here in the USA, I am I awe of your craftsmanship. I've done much restoration work in my time and it's dirty, dangerous work. It's a beautiful home you've created. Thank you for saving a piece of history.
I am genuinely impressed with the quality of which you presented this message in both tone and editing. 5 years of footage is a gigantic amount to deal with…overwhelming! As someone who has worked on houses and edits video I TOTALLY respect this amazing work! Impressive work on all fronts!
While I live in the U.S., I'm also very proud of you're taking on this project to take an existing building with so much history and bring it back to life. All too often in the United States, when a building becomes old a derelict, we simply knock it down. But by knocking it down instead of renovating it, we've not only destroyed a building, but we've destroyed a part of our collective history and a part of a community. The current generation claims that they're all about reducing their carbon footprint blah, blah, blah. But I think it's just as important to take an already existing structure and renovate rather than build something new--even if it is a tiny house using sustainable products. I don't think I could ever live in a brand-new home because I'm all about living someplace that has history and character. Well done!
Trouble is the build quality in the US, there's nothing there to renovate, wooden walls and shingle roofs are not going to last 200 years unfortunately. In Europe when you strip something back you've a solid shell of bricks and mortar to work with.
As part of the 'current generation' who wants to reduce their carbon footprint, this project is fantastic! Improving an already existing structure is completely in line with what's good for the environment. Building materials require energy to be produced, so of course knocking down an old place to build something new isn't the best choice environmentally if the old building is still fit for purpose. And just personally, I despise the look of most modern houses because they tend to look really boring and have 0 soul. It makes me sad that these generational categories are pointlessly dividing us. I recently went to my friend's 60th birthday party, who I get along with really well with. There's also people my own age (20) who I have absolutely nothing in common with. I don't think we should assume people's beliefs based on their age, or that the beliefs of different generations will be incompatible by default. Young people can want to preserve old buildings. Old people can want to knock them down and redevelop them for a quick profit.
Had to watch this right to the end. A young man with so many talents. Well done. It just shows what you can achieve in life with the right positive attitude. Never give up and reach your goals as always possible. Looks absolutely beautiful. Hope your business takes off and you go on and up.
watching this with my 3 year old on my lap who's poorly with covid, when it got to the bit of you plastering the ceiling she said "mummy why is he putting chocolate on the roof!" and gave a big smile 😂 fantastic build, you've done such an amazing job! We both enjoyed watching your journey very much 💕
Watching this from Florida USA in 2022. I am amazed at the phenomenal amount of work you did. It boggles the mind. I don't think people work that hard anymore. What a beautiful result. I can only imagine that you will have tremendous success in your life. Congratulations. You are one of the best.
I live in the US, but I love old buildings everywhere. Thank you for your courage on a massive regeneration and not just starting again with something new! You deserve every good thing !
As a fellow human looking at restoring a two story 1895 brick building with similar issues I felt all of that pain and anguish of the wall removal and roof rebuild. Thank you for posting this up. It’s definitely an inspiration of what a human can do when they are determined. Bravo sir. Bravo.
@@newdawnrecordings You mentioned something like' plenty of sanding' around the time in the video where you were plastering. Just curious, but did you have to sand any edges/lines left as the plaster cures or were you able to iron it out. You'd normally have a finishing trowel, nicely bladed in. Difficult enough any day notwithstanding you were working off a stepladder and knocking up yourself. Did you prime the joints to prevent these areas pulling in? I reckon you must have worked up a thirst on the ceilings. Out of the game now but more lads using stilts now.
This gonna became a precious video for your grandchild's, seeing their grandfather rebuilding the family house by himself, giving them lot of courage & proudest.
Excellent refurbishment! So refreshing to see our heritage restored instead of been demolished. Maybe I'm too nostalgic but IMO nearly all Victorian terraces / corner pubs, shops are very special, unique and should all be grade II listed.
You restored a characterful, historic building, and made it into a beautiful home, and a great creative space. That house was lucky to get you as its owner.
Massive respect mate! Huge project on your own but certainly not easy for anyone. Such a shame to see buildings rot away and I’m so pleased you decided to take this on and I bet your the proudest guy in the world right now.
I am in total awe of your amazing project. It took a long time to finish, and from the way it started, I didn't have much hope for that poor building. You, sir, made it into a masterpiece of beauty!!! I was so moved by your final results, I actually had tears in my eyes watching this. The amount of blood, sweat and tears you put into this project will give you many many years of comfort. You did an outstanding job!!!! Bless you for saving this building....and making it into a home...and a place for musicians to gather.
Good on you to see the potential in the building. As a Swede, I have always heard English buildings are poorly insulated, but I about spit out my coffee when you removed the slate roof and there was no protective underroof, with its own rain protection and and insulation. It must cost a fortune to heat these old buildings (if left it that state). I liked a lot many of your decisions, such as making your own cabinet, the mini garden, the plastering, the insulation ... (I also once fixed up on old house, but not nearly as derelict as yours!) Truly well done, whippersnapper! PS: I quite enjoyed your chosen music! 🍻
@Space Lemur ha yes that is how they are built in England! I have worked in Scotland though and know what you mean about a protective underroof. Thanks a lot for watching, I'm glad you enjoyed the video. I hope to visit Sweden one day, I love nature and the outdoors. All the best, Stephen ☀️
Always drove past this building on my way to Tranmere games, but moved away a few years ago so I had no idea you'd done this. So glad you've saved the building, what a difference that makes to the look of the area. Fantastic achievement, and I hope it's a great home for you
Steve, this is brilliant!! Well explained and documented. Well done! Being a contractor myself, to take a task such as this on your own takes some set, and you did very well. Take bow, you did amazing, and it looks out of this world.
As a Liverpool born, living in Australia...I have to say, this video warms my heart on many levels. What you have achieved is nothing short of amazing and you can be rightly proud.
"Fortune favours the brave." Beautiful and loving restoration which is contributing to the living history of Birkenhead, the great music tradition of Liverpool, and renovators across the world who wonder if their projects will ever be finished. Many thanks for your gentle style and humility.
If my dad was still alive to watch this, him having been a plasterer, I'm sure he would have a few things to say but from my view you did a way better job than I could have attempted! I think it takes some courage and bravery to take on such a project!
Inspirational, Steve. I watch a lot of videos on these projects - having tackled a couple myself - but not with buildings that are on the cusp of demolition. Not only do people like you add value to your own lives, but this renovation adds value to the lives of your neighbours. I salute you, good sir, for all your hard work in creating this little gem.
I fixed up a few houses too (and I'm a 55 year old woman), so believe me, I know how hard it is, how much work it is, how much there is to learn, and how scary and overwhelming it can feel at times, and you dominated all that, wow, well done !! I'm in total admiration of your courage and your skills, you have my total respect! And you have good taste too! Congratulations and a happy future to you!
I’ve just watched this now and had to leave a comment. Absolutely unbelievable mate. I take my hat off to do’ers like you. The vision, the planning, the hard work, the balls lol! What a beautiful home and shop you have made with you own bare hands. Well done mate 👏🏻👏🏻
I have lived near this building for 20 years and always thought it was pretty. It’s been a amazing to watch it getting re build from afar. Thank you for making our area nicer.
Wow Steve I am just speechless, as someone who has refurbished a few old houses I'm just blown away by what you have accomplished. Thanks for sharing, and best of luck always. You are an inspiration
CONGRATULATIONS! It takes a special kind of person to even visualize what that derelict shop could be, much less have the strength and perseverance to make that dream come true. What you did is simply awesome. Thank you for sharing it with us.
I don't know why RUclips decided to show me this video right now. But I am happy that I watched it. It is wonderful how you rescued that beautiful old building and brought it back to life and life into it. Absolutely love the idea with the window garden, makes the building look "friendlier" (?) and the view from inside out improves, too. Also liked that you brought back the shop as place for artists. I see to many old shops and stores of that size just being transferred to living space. While it is very hard to compete against the big box stores, you show what creativity can do. Wish you all the best!
Well done on renovating this Victorian building. These buildings are part of our heritage and well worth preserving. They also look stunning when revived.
I’ve watched a number of “professional” refurbished/repurposed homes in the UK. Yours is so genuine… the comments, the music all fit together so; it is not a surprise you are an artist .. best wishes for your new enterprise. Regards, monica.
Absolutely fantastic! Completely refurbished, yet still beautifully vintage. You are a true craftsman. 5 years of hard work...you have worked wonders with this lovely restoration!
Thank you for rescuing one of our “ordinary” buildings and giving it another 100 years of life. Amazing work done with respect to the building. Hope you have every success there.
We need more people like you saving buildings that just need to be restored and not knocked down. You are a credit to the area. We'll done the place looks brilliant. 👍
I am in absolute awe of what you had the guts to take on, how you persevered through what at times must have felt to be never ending, and the subtle sophistication of you interior decor. I thoroughly enjoyed watching every minute of this video, and as a Chorley lad now living in retirement in South East Asia I was transported back to my very happy childhood. Thank you for sharing this huge achievement and I wish you the very best for the future of your business.
@Ian Bromley thanks a lot for watching and for your comment! I'm glad you enjoyed the video. I hope you are enjoying South East Asia and wish you all the best for the future! Cheers, Stephen 🙂☀️
Yes I spend some time in and around Birkenhead I know exactly .what it was like and I also have been out in the southeast Asia for the last 20 years and I'm so blessed to be here away from All the Troubles of such places which I look back in the UK they can only got worse over the last 15 years since I've been back I am so blessed but for those who have died doing positive things I have more respect than for anyone!
For people that understand when a building gives you a certain feeling there is a special bond that happens between you and that structure as you fix it. It’s special!
Yea like my relationship with the misses, she needs condemning shes falling apart all over the place. Went shopping she picked up facial cream i said you can put that back. Then i picked up a six pack and she says and just what are they good for . They do the same as me as the face cream does for you. (Look more attractive)
@@pinkladycool100 Your comment is utterly incoherent adjacent to my comment. Maybe when you feel different a little later you may choose to come back and read what you had written. Sometimes a thank you for pointing out the obvious wouldn't go a miss but as always , it does and will no doubt.
@@pinkladycool100 I do for sure, again on a subtle note revert to the latter comment. Its not always what we mean by what we say, same with what we mean by what we write. Writing is poetry thus has no ONLY an interpret of expression (which is anyone's guess) but no actual true expression hence that can all to often be misinterpret. No rough feathers intended.
Congratulations from Canada. I love old buildings and what you did with that is simply fantastic! Beautifully designed, carefully crafted, and the end result is about perfect
Wow, stunning, great job your long and hard work really paid off truly amazing! Came across this video by accidentally and had to watch it all. Thanks for sharing.
I have to say, I felt very sorry for you with nobody to help you on your birthday. It was such a daunting task, however, you had the vision and the commitment to see it through and look where it led. I salute you Sir, you are a true craftsman. In an age of quick fixes and everyone looking to make a fast buck, you have illustrated the benefits of good old fashioned hard work. My sincerest best wishes to you and good luck in all your endeavours.
absolutely gorgeous kitchen and the work involved to get you to the finish, absolutely fantastic. I built a 6 bedroom house but it was from the ground up, I have always felt that restoring a derelict house to be way harder. You certainly have an eye for what looks good. very impressed. thank you for taking the trouble to share this video.
@@art_means_artificial depends where you come from. The UK has some fantastic places poor or not a little like Australia or the US or any other country on planet earth
Absolutely fantastic! I am a Brit now living in Texas and doing property renovation but how excited I was to hear your statement you were opening a record label. Been a collector of music for over 40 years, DJ and general audio enthusiast. Can’t wish you enough success my friend
This is really an achievement to be proud of. I'm renovating a house which isn't nearly as derelict as the shop, and doing most of the work myself as well. So I can understand the many hours of graft going in your project. This is not only a man renovating a house, but a man fulfilling a dream, and that's having a place to do what he always wanted, having his own record label.
Wow that is amazing. My heart was pounding looking at your roofing work. You did a beautiful job. Well done on your determination and attention to detail on all of your wood work and the colours you used . I absolutely love the design of the kitchen and utility room. You deserve more than a pat on the back for the transformation of a derelict shell to a beautiful new home and business. I hope that the council has acknowledged your hard work. From Ireland 🇮🇪
Watching this here from the US, but I have to say you did a fantastic job on this property! To see it go from falling apart to the well-done business and residence it is at the end, you should be proud of the work you put into it! It looks great!
I loved the demonstration of patience and true grit demonstrated in this video. While the man was building the house, the house was building the man! Imspring and beautifully understated. More powerful than any episode of "Grand Designs" to be sure!
Wow you did a marvelous job on this restoration. What a beautiful place! Such hard work and care you put in that place. Such a great old building you saved! Just beautiful!
What a beautiful home and business you've made for yourself! Absolutely breathtaking and so very special! Thank you for sharing this transformation! Very blessed indeed!
Beautiful job! I watched your video while on hold to a government office... best on-hold wait I've ever had. Love the live/work vision, and outcome. I live in a 170 year old stone row house in Canada, and although I don't have your construction talent/experience,I have leaned a lot since buying this place 5 years ago. And now, you have nudged me toward doing more.
Stephen, you are a true artist; you turned a ravaged building into a beautiful piece of art! I enjoyed watching your steady pace of work and the end result of it.
Just found this and wanted to pass on my respect for what you've achieved, I've been a builder for longer than I care to remember and understand all to well the amount of effort it takes to do this kind of thing, especially on your own, all the best for the future.
@Kev S thanks for your comment I really appreciate that. The building game is not for the faint hearted is it! Finding spare time is the main problem! All the best, Stephen 🙂☀️
You are so talented and hardworking, holy crap!!! And five years is admirably insane. I spent six weeks crocheting a blanket and thought that was a lot😂 props to you! This is amazing!!
Well done sir! Not just for your build, which is spectacular, but for following your dream, plus sharing it with your people (locals I mean). Best wishes to you!
WOW 😊, what an amazing build. I thoroughly enjoy watching artists work like this. Thank you for saving this building and bringing it back to life ❤ Louise -USA
I lived in Larch Road for a short time in the early 80's. This shop was run by a broker where I'd get my car insurance. Fantastic work/restoration and a great video. Thanks for posting it.
Well done. You took on an absolute nightmare of a project, developed multiple skills along the way and amazingly, you stayed sane and completed the build to a fantastic standard. The roof, bathrooms and kitchen are all perfect and all your drywall/plastering too. I wish more people could achieve what you have. Congratulations - enjoy and best wishes for your new business.
Great project, I worked on many old building restorations in North East England and around the UK before emigrating. I miss those old buildings, it was dirty work but the pride in restoring an old building is a wonderful achievement, all credit to you.
I live further down Borough Road and watched this happen day by day, home from work, the shops, lockdown walks. So good to see the result! Really glad the decorative bit at the front survived! Best of luck in your venture. I am sadly not terribly creative but will certainly say hello.
Jan thanks so much for watching and for taking the time to leave a comment! Yes it wouldn't be the same without the front corner window and pointy roof (The official name is an Oriel window apparently!) 😄 By the way that's what all the most creative people say! I bet there is something you would love to try? I think we are all creative really. All the best, Stephen 🙂☀️
Amazing, just amazing! I've watched a lot of video's of people renovating houses, old sail boats, cars. It must be a great sense of satisfaction to complete a project like that and then look back on the journey it took to finish it. Well done, good luck on your musical career, you are a true Renaissance man!
This is one of the best videos I've watched on RUclips. Beautiful. You saved a building. Good luck to you and all the artists you are encouraging. We need artists more than ever these days.
Thumbs up from me. All around Birkenhead and across the water there are streets and streets of derelict but solid terraced houses. It is great to see one of these brought back in to beneficial use by someone who is clearly passionate about what they do.
I started to watch expecting not to watch the whole thing but I stayed to the end. Not only was it an inspiring build, your choice of music was also inspired. Well done
Your home is music.🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻
@debradoo4448 thank you!!! 🌻 🌻 🌻
I seen the derelict building many times, driving past. Then scaffolding went up and thought another building lost to developer's. Then I noticed nothing was being demolished. The front face was gone then rebuilt. I slowly watched it change into a new repurposed building.
I never knew the story about this, until it landed on my timeline... Thank you for saving a piece of Birkenhead history!
Ah yes scaffolding on a building, the symbol of demolition.
@@imadeanaccounttocomment7800 old bricks are worth a pretty penny bud architectural salvage is a huge thing.
@@imadeanaccounttocomment7800 lmao
@@captainfancypants4933 If it was a real developer they won’t take the time to chisel some bricks for petty cash, they would have been anxious to demolish before they even get approval. Also don’t know why there is a need for an exterior scaffold to remove bricks when the inside is accessible.
* developers
I grew up in this area ( Larch Road ) 1947 -1967. I know it well and have wonderful memories of all those shops. I can't express the emotion as I watched your lovely video. You did an amazing job. I feel so proud of you even though we have never met. I live in the US now. Congratulations. ❤
Hi Elizabeth thanks so much for your lovely comment. I'm glad you enjoyed the video. My mum was born in Larch Road in 1960. Number 47 I think. Maiden name was Coppock. The area has changed a lot since then. Most of the old buildings were knocked down in the 80's when Borough road was widened. Hopefully the building will be here for many years to come. All the best, Stephen.
@@newdawnrecordings Stephen, I was born in number 2. I believe it's still there. 😁
@@elizabethrose4517 I will check for you when I next walk past! 🙂 Thanks for watching and all the best for the new year ✨
@@newdawnrecordings how random to read this comment & see the name Coppack, my grandmas came from Liverpool & her maiden name was Coppack, is it a common name there as it’s not a name iv ever heard off?
So you're 75?
Mate, you deserve every success possible. The determination to commit to a 5 year project like this and pull it off is astounding. I hope the new business pays off.
@Lee Close thanks Lee ☀️
Great work on your renovation and video. Wishing you much success in your music business
All I can say is what a guy .....hats off 👌
I love that you gave credit to all the contractors you hired and helped you with this build. Major kudos to you and them!
@downthispath6538 thanks for watching ☀️
well done Steve, as a resident, ive walked past every day and watched this eye sore turn into something the whole road should aspire to, the building is an asset now thanks to your hard work, you should be proud mate, only next time dont let your pride take over, i for one woulda loved to help you in this venture if i had known you were alone. thats what neighbours do, although tbf, looks like you did a hell of a job mate. Hope the flood didnt do you too much damage, was gutted to see you take the brunt of it. fantastic job mate, am in awe.
Mike thanks a lot for watching the video and for taking the time to leave a comment. I completely understand what you mean about pride and could have reached out to more people for help. Although I have worked alone for a long time in my profession and am used to it. I did also have help from friends and family as well as a great group of professional local tradesmen. I would recommend all of them and their contact details are at the end of the video and also on my website if you are ever in need of a tradesman.
I was extremely fortunate with the flood, luckily the shutters held off most of it and only a small amount managed to seep in through the shop front door seals. I had an industrial dehumidifier in there for about a week and only suffered minor damage. The shop next door and the Deen centre were badly affected. Thanks again and all the best, Stephen ☀️
To be fair, I'd go out of my way to take photos of the before and after. Still, as one obsessed with the decayed and abandoned, I also love it when people do renovate a neglected place.
I’d have loved to volunteer as a grunt just to learn vital skills.
I'm glad to read that, I watched people passing by and I wonder if they had any idea what a huge project was going on here! 👍
I’m not even a resident and I felt like flying there just to volunteer for a few days! What a fantastic job.
New Subscriber. Much Respect 🙏🏽
Man of many skills will never go wrong, lovely to see. Absolutely gorgeous.
@rattylol thank you! 🙂☀️
It's alwsys so heartwarming to see people appreciate the buildings we already have instead of tearing them down or leaving them to fall into dis-repair. You did an absolutely amazing and sensitive job of bringing this building back to life. Well done young man.👏👏👏👏
Definitely, well said.
probably couldn't tear it down even if he wanted to since its over 70 years old and is probably a heritage building so changing how it looks on the exterior can't be changed under no circumstances.
Agreed. I love old historical buildings
I agree. This "throw away" world we live in truly concerns me.
Beautiful house.
You're a man to love. Soft spoken, diligent, skilled, visionair, and musician.
What a wonderful house that is! ❤️
I'm thankful RUclips randomly opted to pop this up in my feed, such a joy to watch; well done. And I love all the comments from residents who were thankful you kept the buildings aesthetics. Looking forward to discovering new music through your channel
Same 💙
Ditto - inspiring on so many levels.
Same here. Really enjoyed your journey. From Seattle, Washington, USA.
You can tell Steve is a proper Joiner and a good one at that as everything he did was totally square and straight and level . I am a Joiner myself of over 30 years and can totally appreciate the work you put in well done Lad.
Mate you are an absolute beast. I’m a builder here in Australia and I always appreciate watching passionate builders like yourself start and finish a project almost entirely by yourself. Well done mate you should be really proud of that fantastic build.
Called him a weapon 🤣🤣
@@alfiebeddows6150 it seems weapon is seen as an insult in Liverpool 😂😂 I edited my comment and hopefully beast isn’t code for pedophile or serial killer
One has to be so careful, what passes in Australia as a compliment, not quite the same in England.
But I agree with you, this was a fabulous job, a build from the heart making a dual purpose home for himself.
Love to see old buildings reborn again. Cheers from 🇦🇺
@@blacksorrento4719 hey where in aus are you mate?
@@rm_con I’m in NSW. FYI…. My monika is the car I drive, a KIA 4WD Black Sorrento. I have been associated with the building industry since marrying an architect. Usually involved in the administrative side of building. But that doesn’t mean I can’t appreciate the skill of different trades, over the years I have been on plenty of construction sites. My late husband specialised in second storey work, quite often gutting houses to their existing footprint in the eastern suburbs of Sydney, much as this one had to be. He won many housing awards, both HIA and Master Builders. Sorry if you thought I was a fellow builder……
What a hardworking, clever, brave young chap you are. 👏👏👏 You make your parents proud.
I used to get the 472 into Birkenhead/Liverpool to go to college/uni and always thought what a beautiful building this was as I went past and what a shame it’d hadn’t been shown some love. It warms my heart that you have saved it. It truly is amazing what you have done!
@Rebecca Miu thank you! I really appreciate you watching the video and leaving a comment. Really glad that you like the renovation 🙂☀️
I’m a builder and know just how hard this is on your own, what an achievement you should be very proud.
That was incredible, you've saved a piece of your local history and you should be commended upon that, The finish and design are outstanding throughout, an absolute joy to watch from start to end.
@regfenster thanks a lot for watching and for taking the time to comment, I really appreciate it! Cheers, Stephen 🙂☀️
Very well done!
Steve, congratulations! I know this area, and I’ve seen it deteriorate over the years. The council should thank you for helping bring life back to Birkenhead. What a beautiful home and business you’ve created - you deserve every success, and some better birthdays 🥳 How proud your uncle would be of you x
Its an orrible place
@louiselyon3849 thank you! 🙂☀️
Wow, congratulations on finishing your beautiful house and, seriously as a local, I personally thank you for saving one of Birkenhead's more unique buildings that would have been lost to us otherwise. Lovely to see the pillars remain on the front just like the shop at other end of that block. You did an amazing job, a real labour of love :)
damn the uk looks poor ...
@@art_means_artificial damnn if you think that’s poor you should look how bad America is 😂
As a female master carpenter of 44 years here in the USA, I am I awe of your craftsmanship. I've done much restoration work in my time and it's dirty, dangerous work. It's a beautiful home you've created. Thank you for saving a piece of history.
Why do you need to point out that you are a woman?
@@loremipsum6804 why do u need to point out what she is pointing out>
@@svietka202 because it is separatism. Anyway stop trying to be a smarty pants.
@@svietka202 why do you need to point out what he’s pointing out about what she’s pointing out?
@2times2is4 thank you! I really appreciate it ☀️
I am genuinely impressed with the quality of which you presented this message in both tone and editing. 5 years of footage is a gigantic amount to deal with…overwhelming! As someone who has worked on houses and edits video I TOTALLY respect this amazing work! Impressive work on all fronts!
Likewise
While I live in the U.S., I'm also very proud of you're taking on this project to take an existing building with so much history and bring it back to life. All too often in the United States, when a building becomes old a derelict, we simply knock it down. But by knocking it down instead of renovating it, we've not only destroyed a building, but we've destroyed a part of our collective history and a part of a community. The current generation claims that they're all about reducing their carbon footprint blah, blah, blah. But I think it's just as important to take an already existing structure and renovate rather than build something new--even if it is a tiny house using sustainable products. I don't think I could ever live in a brand-new home because I'm all about living someplace that has history and character. Well done!
Trouble is the build quality in the US, there's nothing there to renovate, wooden walls and shingle roofs are not going to last 200 years unfortunately. In Europe when you strip something back you've a solid shell of bricks and mortar to work with.
As part of the 'current generation' who wants to reduce their carbon footprint, this project is fantastic! Improving an already existing structure is completely in line with what's good for the environment. Building materials require energy to be produced, so of course knocking down an old place to build something new isn't the best choice environmentally if the old building is still fit for purpose. And just personally, I despise the look of most modern houses because they tend to look really boring and have 0 soul.
It makes me sad that these generational categories are pointlessly dividing us. I recently went to my friend's 60th birthday party, who I get along with really well with. There's also people my own age (20) who I have absolutely nothing in common with. I don't think we should assume people's beliefs based on their age, or that the beliefs of different generations will be incompatible by default. Young people can want to preserve old buildings. Old people can want to knock them down and redevelop them for a quick profit.
Had to watch this right to the end. A young man with so many talents. Well done. It just shows what you can achieve in life with the right positive attitude. Never give up and reach your goals as always possible. Looks absolutely beautiful. Hope your business takes off and you go on and up.
@Shelley Leach thanks so much for the support and all the best for the future 🙂☀️
watching this with my 3 year old on my lap who's poorly with covid, when it got to the bit of you plastering the ceiling she said "mummy why is he putting chocolate on the roof!" and gave a big smile 😂
fantastic build, you've done such an amazing job! We both enjoyed watching your journey very much 💕
Aw I hope they're better soon!
@dreamwaves that's lovely, thanks for watching and I'm glad you enjoyed it. Wishing you and your daughter all the best for the future. Thanks 🙂☀️
I really enjoyed listening to your soft 'Scouser' accent. The transformation is mind boggling - love it!
@@flowerpower7077 thank you 🙂☀️
Watching this from Florida USA in 2022. I am amazed at the phenomenal amount of work you did. It boggles the mind. I don't think people work that hard anymore. What a beautiful result. I can only imagine that you will have tremendous success in your life. Congratulations. You are one of the best.
@Marsha Neumann thanks so much for your lovely comment, I am glad that you enjoyed the video. All the best, Stephen 🙂 ☀️
I live in the US, but I love old buildings everywhere. Thank you for your courage on a massive regeneration and not just starting again with something new! You deserve every good thing !
@Sunni Clark thank you! 🙂☀️
As a fellow human looking at restoring a two story 1895 brick building with similar issues I felt all of that pain and anguish of the wall removal and roof rebuild. Thank you for posting this up. It’s definitely an inspiration of what a human can do when they are determined. Bravo sir. Bravo.
@Bill Heineken thanks Bill! It was a bit tough at times but I got there in the end.
Wishing you all the best with your project
🙂👍☀️
@@newdawnrecordings
You mentioned something like' plenty of sanding' around the time in the video where you were plastering. Just curious, but did you have to sand any edges/lines left as the plaster cures or were you able to iron it out. You'd normally have a finishing trowel, nicely bladed in. Difficult enough any day notwithstanding you were working off a stepladder and knocking up yourself. Did you prime the joints to prevent these areas pulling in? I reckon you must have worked up a thirst on the ceilings. Out of the game now but more lads using stilts now.
This gonna became a precious video for your grandchild's, seeing their grandfather rebuilding the family house by himself, giving them lot of courage & proudest.
Excellent refurbishment! So refreshing to see our heritage restored instead of been demolished. Maybe I'm too nostalgic but IMO nearly all Victorian terraces / corner pubs, shops are very special, unique and should all be grade II listed.
You restored a characterful, historic building, and made it into a beautiful home, and a great creative space. That house was lucky to get you as its owner.
Congratulations on reviving an older building into a work of art, function and beauty. You can be so proud of your amazing achievement.
Massive respect mate! Huge project on your own but certainly not easy for anyone. Such a shame to see buildings rot away and I’m so pleased you decided to take this on and I bet your the proudest guy in the world right now.
@Greasy 5th Wheel thanks for watching ☀️
I am in total awe of your amazing project. It took a long time to finish, and from the way it started, I didn't have much hope for that poor building. You, sir, made it into a masterpiece of beauty!!! I was so moved by your final results, I actually had tears in my eyes watching this. The amount of blood, sweat and tears you put into this project will give you many many years of comfort. You did an outstanding job!!!! Bless you for saving this building....and making it into a home...and a place for musicians to gather.
@KarenL1251 thanks so much for watching and for your lovely comment! I'm really glad that you enjoyed the video. All the best, Stephen ☀️
Beautiful film,narration and music ambiance.
Outstanding renovation mate!
Congratulations on a fantastic restoration project. You should be extremely proud of what you've achieved. Good luck for the future.
@Alan Ahern thanks a lot for watching and for leaving a comment, all the best, Stephen 🙂☀️
Mate beginning to end inspirational proper respect fella.
Good on you to see the potential in the building.
As a Swede, I have always heard English buildings are poorly insulated, but I about spit out my coffee when you removed the slate roof and there was no protective underroof, with its own rain protection and and insulation. It must cost a fortune to heat these old buildings (if left it that state).
I liked a lot many of your decisions, such as making your own cabinet, the mini garden, the plastering, the insulation ... (I also once fixed up on old house, but not nearly as derelict as yours!)
Truly well done, whippersnapper!
PS: I quite enjoyed your chosen music! 🍻
@Space Lemur ha yes that is how they are built in England! I have worked in Scotland though and know what you mean about a protective underroof. Thanks a lot for watching, I'm glad you enjoyed the video.
I hope to visit Sweden one day, I love nature and the outdoors.
All the best, Stephen ☀️
Always drove past this building on my way to Tranmere games, but moved away a few years ago so I had no idea you'd done this. So glad you've saved the building, what a difference that makes to the look of the area. Fantastic achievement, and I hope it's a great home for you
@Sam King thanks Sam! 🙂👍☀️
Steve, this is brilliant!! Well explained and documented. Well done! Being a contractor myself, to take a task such as this on your own takes some set, and you did very well. Take bow, you did amazing, and it looks out of this world.
As a Liverpool born, living in Australia...I have to say, this video warms my heart on many levels. What you have achieved is nothing short of amazing and you can be rightly proud.
"Fortune favours the brave."
Beautiful and loving restoration which is contributing to the living history of Birkenhead, the great music tradition of Liverpool, and renovators across the world who wonder if their projects will ever be finished.
Many thanks for your gentle style and humility.
If my dad was still alive to watch this, him having been a plasterer, I'm sure he would have a few things to say but from my view you did a way better job than I could have attempted! I think it takes some courage and bravery to take on such a project!
@Shannon Feaver thanks Shannon! 🙂☀️
Inspirational, Steve. I watch a lot of videos on these projects - having tackled a couple myself - but not with buildings that are on the cusp of demolition. Not only do people like you add value to your own lives, but this renovation adds value to the lives of your neighbours. I salute you, good sir, for all your hard work in creating this little gem.
I fixed up a few houses too (and I'm a 55 year old woman), so believe me, I know how hard it is, how much work it is, how much there is to learn, and how scary and overwhelming it can feel at times, and you dominated all that, wow, well done !! I'm in total admiration of your courage and your skills, you have my total respect! And you have good taste too! Congratulations and a happy future to you!
I’ve just watched this now and had to leave a comment. Absolutely unbelievable mate. I take my hat off to do’ers like you. The vision, the planning, the hard work, the balls lol! What a beautiful home and shop you have made with you own bare hands. Well done mate 👏🏻👏🏻
This has to be one of the best self done renovations I have ever watched. Absolutely beautiful finished product. Well done sir.
@TynTynTyn thanks I really appreciate it! 🙂☀️
Your work ethic and commitment is inspiring. Nothing but respect and admiration for what you've achieved. Good luck, you deserve it.
I have lived near this building for 20 years and always thought it was pretty. It’s been a amazing to watch it getting re build from afar. Thank you for making our area nicer.
Wow Steve I am just speechless, as someone who has refurbished a few old houses I'm just blown away by what you have accomplished. Thanks for sharing, and best of luck always. You are an inspiration
@Kevin G thanks Kevin! ☀️
CONGRATULATIONS! It takes a special kind of person to even visualize what that derelict shop could be, much less have the strength and perseverance to make that dream come true. What you did is simply awesome. Thank you for sharing it with us.
I don't know why RUclips decided to show me this video right now. But I am happy that I watched it.
It is wonderful how you rescued that beautiful old building and brought it back to life and life into it. Absolutely love the idea with the window garden, makes the building look "friendlier" (?) and the view from inside out improves, too. Also liked that you brought back the shop as place for artists. I see to many old shops and stores of that size just being transferred to living space. While it is very hard to compete against the big box stores, you show what creativity can do.
Wish you all the best!
Well done on renovating this Victorian building. These buildings are part of our heritage and well worth preserving. They also look stunning when revived.
I’ve watched a number of “professional” refurbished/repurposed homes in the UK. Yours is so genuine… the comments, the music all fit together so; it is not a surprise you are an artist .. best wishes for your new enterprise. Regards, monica.
@Monica Molloy thanks Monica 🙂☀️
Absolutely fantastic! Completely refurbished, yet still beautifully vintage. You are a true craftsman. 5 years of hard work...you have worked wonders with this lovely restoration!
Thank you for rescuing one of our “ordinary” buildings and giving it another 100 years of life. Amazing work done with respect to the building. Hope you have every success there.
What an impressive renovation. I love it when people can repurpose old shops into full living spaces!
Hello Mary
We need more people like you saving buildings that just need to be restored and not knocked down. You are a credit to the area. We'll done the place looks brilliant. 👍
I am in absolute awe of what you had the guts to take on, how you persevered through what at times must have felt to be never ending, and the subtle sophistication of you interior decor. I thoroughly enjoyed watching every minute of this video, and as a Chorley lad now living in retirement in South East Asia I was transported back to my very happy childhood. Thank you for sharing this huge achievement and I wish you the very best for the future of your business.
Always good to see a fellow Chorley lad in the comments
@Ian Bromley thanks a lot for watching and for your comment! I'm glad you enjoyed the video. I hope you are enjoying South East Asia and wish you all the best for the future! Cheers, Stephen 🙂☀️
Yes I spend some time in and around Birkenhead I know exactly .what it was like and I also have been out in the southeast Asia for the last 20 years and I'm so blessed to be here away from All the Troubles of such places which I look back in the UK they can only got worse over the last 15 years since I've been back I am so blessed but for those who have died doing positive things I have more respect than for anyone!
"subtle sophistication of interior decor" ... those were the words I wanted to come up with, but couldn't quite formulate! Agree with you 100%
What a fantastic job you have done to the building fantastic finish all over
No praise is enough. I am in awe of the energy, stamina, knowledge and skill involved in completing a project like this. Congratulations!
@Joe Oak thanks Joe! I really appreciate it, cheers 🙂👍☀️
For people that understand when a building gives you a certain feeling there is a special bond that happens between you and that structure as you fix it. It’s special!
Yea like my relationship with the misses, she needs condemning shes falling apart all over the place. Went shopping she picked up facial cream i said you can put that back. Then i picked up a six pack and she says and just what are they good for . They do the same as me as the face cream does for you. (Look more attractive)
@@apsert Did you spend a long time in A&E lol?
@@pinkladycool100 Your comment is utterly incoherent adjacent to my comment. Maybe when you feel different a little later you may choose to come back and read what you had written. Sometimes a thank you for pointing out the obvious wouldn't go a miss but as always , it does and will no doubt.
@@apsert I thought you had a sense of humour but it seems you haven't. I will not explain so let's leave it at that, shall we?
@@pinkladycool100 I do for sure, again on a subtle note revert to the latter comment. Its not always what we mean by what we say, same with what we mean by what we write. Writing is poetry thus has no ONLY an interpret of expression (which is anyone's guess) but no actual true expression hence that can all to often be misinterpret. No rough feathers intended.
It makes my heart happy whenever I see an old building restored and loved again. You did a wonderful job!
You took an old rundown building and made it beautiful and the town looks so peaceful and serene.
I don't know you pal, but wow what a brilliant job you have done. You should be so proud of what you've built.
@peteg8888 cheers Pete! 🙂☀️
Absolutely incredible......the physical and mental strength a project like this takes is totally off the charts, maximum respect to you
Congratulations from Canada. I love old buildings and what you did with that is simply fantastic! Beautifully designed, carefully crafted, and the end result is about perfect
Your artistry and skills are great. But your determination is incredible.
Wow, stunning, great job your long and hard work really paid off truly amazing! Came across this video by accidentally and had to watch it all. Thanks for sharing.
@Derek Gavin Thanks a lot for watching and for your nice comment, I am glad you enjoyed the video, cheers, Stephen 🙂☀️
I have to say, I felt very sorry for you with nobody to help you on your birthday. It was such a daunting task, however, you had the vision and the commitment to see it through and look where it led. I salute you Sir, you are a true craftsman. In an age of quick fixes and everyone looking to make a fast buck, you have illustrated the benefits of good old fashioned hard work. My sincerest best wishes to you and good luck in all your endeavours.
absolutely gorgeous kitchen and the work involved to get you to the finish, absolutely fantastic. I built a 6 bedroom house but it was from the ground up, I have always felt that restoring a derelict house to be way harder. You certainly have an eye for what looks good. very impressed. thank you for taking the trouble to share this video.
@Rob Cox thank you! 🙂☀️
There's something very calming about this compared to other renovation videos I've seen
What an effort! Great job mate 👍
Totally agree Scottie. Weird to think a couple of NZers watching this from afar.
@@bedef1980 and Australia 🙌🏻 also love your work Scottie
Scott Brown here
damn the uk looks poor ...
@@art_means_artificial depends where you come from. The UK has some fantastic places poor or not a little like Australia or the US or any other country on planet earth
Absolutely fantastic! I am a Brit now living in Texas and doing property renovation but how excited I was to hear your statement you were opening a record label. Been a collector of music for over 40 years, DJ and general audio enthusiast. Can’t wish you enough success my friend
@DJWerkz thanks and all the best to you 🙂☀️
This is really an achievement to be proud of.
I'm renovating a house which isn't nearly as derelict as the shop, and doing most of the work myself as well.
So I can understand the many hours of graft going in your project.
This is not only a man renovating a house, but a man fulfilling a dream, and that's having a place to do what he always wanted, having his own record label.
@Tom Lahaye thanks Tom! I really appreciate it 🙂☀️
Wow that is amazing. My heart was pounding looking at your roofing work. You did a beautiful job. Well done on your determination and attention to detail on all of your wood work and the colours you used . I absolutely love the design of the kitchen and utility room.
You deserve more than a pat on the back for the transformation of a derelict shell to a beautiful new home and business. I hope that the council has acknowledged your hard work.
From Ireland 🇮🇪
Watching this here from the US, but I have to say you did a fantastic job on this property! To see it go from falling apart to the well-done business and residence it is at the end, you should be proud of the work you put into it! It looks great!
I loved the demonstration of patience and true grit demonstrated in this video. While the man was building the house, the house was building the man! Imspring and beautifully understated. More powerful than any episode of "Grand Designs" to be sure!
incredible job. it's so nice to see people not just giving up on old buildings but reviving them.
Wow you did a marvelous job on this restoration. What a beautiful place! Such hard work and care you put in that place. Such a great old building you saved! Just beautiful!
it must be an amazing feeling to live in a house you built so much of with your own two hands
@Nithin Sai thanks it does make you appreciate it! 🙂☀️
What a beautiful home and business you've made for yourself! Absolutely breathtaking and so very special! Thank you for sharing this transformation! Very blessed indeed!
Beautiful job! I watched your video while on hold to a government office... best on-hold wait I've ever had. Love the live/work vision, and outcome. I live in a 170 year old stone row house in Canada, and although I don't have your construction talent/experience,I have leaned a lot since buying this place 5 years ago. And now, you have nudged me toward doing more.
This is so beautiful. To keep the character and personality of the building and adding to the community is such a rare thing.
So wonderful to see this beautiful old building restored. Hats off to you for all your hard work and what a beautiful result, well done!!!!!
Stephen, you are a true artist; you turned a ravaged building into a beautiful piece of art! I enjoyed watching your steady pace of work and the end result of it.
@Svetlana Seamone thank you! 🙂☀️
Just found this and wanted to pass on my respect for what you've achieved, I've been a builder for longer than I care to remember and understand all to well the amount of effort it takes to do this kind of thing, especially on your own, all the best for the future.
@Kev S thanks for your comment I really appreciate that. The building game is not for the faint hearted is it! Finding spare time is the main problem! All the best, Stephen 🙂☀️
Excellent vidio and the music mighty, well done with the house and building too 👍
You are so talented and hardworking, holy crap!!! And five years is admirably insane. I spent six weeks crocheting a blanket and thought that was a lot😂 props to you! This is amazing!!
Well done sir! Not just for your build, which is spectacular, but for following your dream, plus sharing it with your people (locals I mean). Best wishes to you!
Wirral resident myself and went to Borough Rd college. It's fantastic to see genuine local redevelopment. Well done. Hope the new business is booming.
@Rebecca Jenson thanks Rebecca! 🙂☀️
WOW 😊, what an amazing build. I thoroughly enjoy watching artists work like this. Thank you for saving this building and bringing it back to life ❤ Louise -USA
I lived in Larch Road for a short time in the early 80's. This shop was run by a broker where I'd get my car insurance. Fantastic work/restoration and a great video. Thanks for posting it.
Well done. You took on an absolute nightmare of a project, developed multiple skills along the way and amazingly, you stayed sane and completed the build to a fantastic standard. The roof, bathrooms and kitchen are all perfect and all your drywall/plastering too. I wish more people could achieve what you have. Congratulations - enjoy and best wishes for your new business.
Great project, I worked on many old building restorations in North East England and around the UK before emigrating. I miss those old buildings, it was dirty work but the pride in restoring an old building is a wonderful achievement, all credit to you.
What an amazing man you are! Would that there were more like you in the world, building things up instead of tearing them down. Kudos, mate!
I live further down Borough Road and watched this happen day by day, home from work, the shops, lockdown walks. So good to see the result! Really glad the decorative bit at the front survived! Best of luck in your venture. I am sadly not terribly creative but will certainly say hello.
Jan thanks so much for watching and for taking the time to leave a comment! Yes it wouldn't be the same without the front corner window and pointy roof (The official name is an Oriel window apparently!) 😄 By the way that's what all the most creative people say! I bet there is something you would love to try? I think we are all creative really. All the best, Stephen 🙂☀️
Magnificent on Sooo Many Levels! Success In All You Do! Thanks for sharing. Just Beautiful!
Amazing, just amazing! I've watched a lot of video's of people renovating houses, old sail boats, cars. It must be a great sense of satisfaction to complete a project like that and then look back on the journey it took to finish it. Well done, good luck on your musical career, you are a true Renaissance man!
I’m just ran into the video and you did amazing work ! It’s beautiful inside and out ! Cheers !
This is one of the best videos I've watched on RUclips. Beautiful. You saved a building. Good luck to you and all the artists you are encouraging. We need artists more than ever these days.
Thumbs up from me. All around Birkenhead and across the water there are streets and streets of derelict but solid terraced houses. It is great to see one of these brought back in to beneficial use by someone who is clearly passionate about what they do.
I started to watch expecting not to watch the whole thing but I stayed to the end. Not only was it an inspiring build, your choice of music was also inspired. Well done
@Michael Baker thanks Michael! I'm glad you enjoyed the video. All the best ☀️