MICHAEL LIVERSAGE
ILLUSTRATION I FINE ART I PHOTOGRAPHY
Buying & restoring a house
Starting a business
AnITALIANStory
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My 500-Year-Old Piedmontese House and a Mission to give back to the Community
Imagine stepping back in time, not through a museum exhibit, but through a doorway into a living, breathing piece of history. That's exactly what I'm doing. My project isn't just about renovating a house; it's about resurrecting a corner of Italy, breathing new life into its ancient stones and fostering a spirit of community that time has threatened to erode.
My journey begins in Pievetta, a historic district nestled in the Piedmont region of Italy. Here, amidst rolling hills and vineyards steeped in tradition, I've acquired a house that's seen five centuries unfold. Its walls whisper tales of generations past, of families who lived, loved, and labored within its embrace. But time, as it inevitably does, has taken its toll. The house, though structurally sound, stands as a silent testament to neglect, its beauty obscured by layers of decay.
This isn't just a renovation project; it's a restoration, a delicate dance between honoring the past and embracing the future. My goal is to meticulously restore the house to its former glory, preserving its original character while adapting it to modern living. Think exposed stone walls meeting modern plumbing, ancient beams supporting state-of-the-art electrical systems, and traditional craftsmanship blending seamlessly with contemporary design.
But this journey is about more than just bricks and mortar. It's about breathing life back into the house.The vibrant heart of the district has slowly faded, its younger generations drawn away by the allure of larger cities and more readily available opportunities.
Therefore, alongside the restoration of the house, I'm embarking on a second, equally important, adventure: establishing a business that directly benefits the community. The exact nature of this venture is still taking shape, evolving as I immerse myself further in the local culture and understand the unique needs of. However, the core principle remains constant: to create opportunities, foster connection, and contribute to the revitalization of this special place.
Why Pievetta and Why Now?
The answer lies in a confluence of factors. I've always been captivated by the beauty and history of Italy, particularly its lesser-known, more authentic corners. Piedmont, with its stunning landscapes, rich culinary heritage, and deep-rooted traditions, has always held a special appeal. Pievetta, with its undeniable charm and sense of timelessness, felt like a place where I could truly make a difference.
Furthermore, I believe there's a growing movement towards slow living, a desire to escape the frenetic pace of modern life and reconnect with simpler values. People are increasingly drawn to experiences that are authentic, meaningful, and rooted in community, with its unhurried rhythm and welcoming spirit, embodies this ideal.
My goal is to create a space that celebrates this ethos, a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of the Piedmontese countryside, experience the richness of its culture, and connect with the local community. The renovated house will serve as a base for this endeavor, perhaps offering charming cultural guest accommodations
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The Journey Unveiled: Victories, Disappointments, Problems, and Mistakes
Starting June 2025, I'll be sharing my journey through a series of videos, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and triumphs of this ambitious project. Expect to witness the raw, unfiltered reality of restoring a 500-year-old house.
What you'll see:
The Restoration Process: From the initial assessment of the house's structural integrity to the painstaking work of uncovering hidden architectural details, you'll witness the entire restoration process unfold. You'll see the craftsmanship of local artisans, learn about traditional building techniques, and understand the complexities of working with a historic property.
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The eight month buying process, dealing with agents, the legalities and the process.
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Why i selected the property, region and area.
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The Restoration Process: From the initial assessment of the house's structural integrity to the painstaking work of uncovering hidden architectural details, you'll witness the entire restoration process unfold. You'll see the craftsmanship of local artisans, learn about traditional building techniques, and understand the complexities of working with a historic property.
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Discoveries and Setbacks: Every restoration project unearths surprises, both pleasant and challenging. I'll share the exciting discoveries we make along the way – perhaps a hidden fresco, a forgotten artifact, or a previously unknown architectural feature. But I'll also be transparent about the setbacks – the unexpected structural issues, the bureaucratic hurdles, and the inevitable budget overruns.
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The Business Venture: Witness the evolution of my business idea integral with the house, from initial concept to implementation. You'll see me connect with local artisans, and business owners. You'll be privy to the challenges of launching a new business in a foreign country, from navigating local regulations to building relationships.
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Community Engagement: More than anything, this project is about connecting with the community. You'll see me participating in local culture, learning the language, and immersing myself in the Piedmontese culture. You'll meet the people who call Pievetta home – the farmers who cultivate the land, the artisans who preserve traditional crafts, and the families who carry on the legacy of their ancestors.
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Mistakes and Lessons Learned: I'm not an expert in restoration or business. I'm a passionate individual with a vision and a willingness to learn. I anticipate making mistakes along the way, and I'll be sharing those mistakes openly and honestly, hoping to learn from them and help others avoid similar pitfalls.
Why Follow Along?
This isn't just a renovation show; it's a human story. It's about the passion for history, the allure of Italy, the challenges of building something new, and the power of community. It's a story filled with hope, resilience, and a deep respect for the past.
By following my journey, you'll:
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Experience the magic of Italy: Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Piedmontese landscape, the richness of its culture, and the warmth of its people.
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Learn about restoration techniques: Gain valuable insights into the art and science of restoring historic properties.
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Witness the birth of a business: Follow the journey of a new business from concept to reality, learning about the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship.
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Connect with a community: Become part of a global community of people who are passionate about history, culture, and making a difference.
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Be inspired to pursue your own dreams: My journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the belief that anything is possible.
Join me in June 2025 as I embark on this incredible adventure. Let's resurrect a house, and rediscover the beauty of slow living, one stone, one story, one connection at a time.
Stay tuned for updates, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and a taste of what's to come! I'm excited to share this journey with you and invite you to be a part of the story. Subscribe to my channel, follow me on social media, and let's build something beautiful together. Ciao!
