Living in a lighthouse is a unique experience, far removed from the comforts of a regular home.
Imagine not being able to drive up to your front door, but instead parking half a mile away and carrying all your supplies – food, water, and even gas for the generator.
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Yet, once you’re settled in, the experience is unparalleled.
Welcome to the Fairport Harbor West Lighthouse in Fairport Harbor, Ohio, a beacon of history and determination.
Sheila Consaul (65) took on the challenge of transforming this abandoned lighthouse.
A serious lover of all things history, the $71,000 purchase of the lighthouse on the shores of Lake Erie became Sheila’s passion project.
While her primary residence is in Ashburn, Virginia, she was on the hunt for a cooler summer retreat.
When she learned about the government auctioning off lighthouses, she saw an opportunity to combine her love for historic preservation with the dream of a unique summer home.
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The lighthouse, however, was not in the best shape when Sheila took ownership.
Broken windows, crumbling plaster, and a desperate need for a fresh coat of paint were just the tip of the iceberg.
Using a home equity loan, she began the arduous renovation process, initially budgeting around $200,000.
But as with most passion projects, the costs and time required exceeded her expectations.
The logistics of renovating a lighthouse are not for the faint-hearted.
Located in a state park, every trip to the lighthouse requires a half-mile walk through sandy beaches, sometimes even necessitating a climb on the breakwall.
Larger items? They had to be transported by boat, lifted by a crane from a barge onto the lighthouse platform.
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And utilities? The lighthouse is off the grid, demanding a complete electrical overhaul and a reliance on a gasoline-powered generator.
Despite the challenges, Sheila’s dedication shines through in the details.
The lighthouse now boasts a fully equipped kitchen, complete with granite countertops and new cabinets.
The living room is a cozy space, and the utility laundry room is a testament to Sheila’s forward-thinking.
One of the standout features is the cast iron staircase, spiraling up to the second floor, a testament to the lighthouse’s history.
Sheila’s commitment to preserving the lighthouse’s heritage is evident in her meticulous restoration of the windows.
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Each pane was hand-stripped, with the paint removed and the glass replaced.
Additionally, she commissioned stunning stained glass windows, adding a touch of modern artistry to the historic structure.
The lighthouse also pays homage to the many volunteers who have assisted Sheila over the years, with a dedicated wall showcasing their contributions.
The lighthouse’s interior is a blend of history and modernity.
The bunk room, once housing a coal boiler, is now one of three bedrooms. The bathroom, while fully restored, retains its original white hexagon tiles.
The master bath, which once served as a pantry, now offers luxury and comfort.
And the service level, previously used to maintain the light, now houses mechanical equipment.
The top of the lighthouse, known as the widow’s walk, offers breathtaking views of Mentor Headlands Beach and Headlands State Park.
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Here, she’s incorporated solar panels and a wind turbine, for sustainable living.
The beacon remains active, turning on every evening and shutting off at dawn, maintained by the Coast Guard.
This lighthouse is not just a home; it’s a living piece of history, an active aid to navigation, and a symbol of Fairport Harbor’s community spirit.
Sheila’s journey with the lighthouse has been one of dedication, passion, and community engagement.
While she occasionally ponders the idea of renting it out or taking on another such project, she acknowledges the unique challenges and joys this lighthouse brought into her life.
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