By Andrew Batt:
For an alternative to modern living, this three-bedroom cave home (pictured) in France might be the answer, although don’t expect to have to skimp on the necessities of comfortable living.
This well-designed troglodyte home offers stunning views over the Loire Valley that are to die for. It’s located just one hour from Tours and 35 minutes from Vendôme and a TGV link to Paris.
This home is simply unique. It boasts under-floor heating, main water and drainage, air-conditioning, ADSL and some wonderful design features including a beautiful glass tread staircase leading to a mezzanine floor and what the owner calls "the blue lagoon" – a large circular glass insert in the floor which floods the kitchen downstairs with light.
Enter through the double-height glazed wall at the front straight into the kitchen/dining area which has its own fireplace and a moveable unit housing the cooker and hob. The wide stairs, carved into the stone, leads into the living space which is surprisingly light and airy. Further steps lead to a bedroom area with bathroom, and two further bedrooms to the rear. There are en-suite bathrooms in each of the three bedrooms, which have been left unfinished so you are free to choose your own tiles and decor.
At the front of the cave, above the kitchen, is the mezzanine level which can be used as another living area, study or office. Outside there are two terrace areas, and there’s even another cave at road level which can be used for storage or further development.
The property is being marketed by www.frenchestateagents.com and is priced at €371,000 (S$594,187).
Related Stories:
Mumbai’s tossed-out tenants become overnight millionaires
London’s York House to launch in Singapore
Overseas exhibitions tempt Singapore buyers