{
  "id": 20038243,
  "title": "Couple's £138,000 Victorian water tower gets a seven-year makeover in England",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/14/couples-138-000-victorian-water-tower-gets-a-seven-year-makeover-in",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-11-14T19:20:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Times of India",
    "slug": "times-of-india",
    "url": "https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/uk/a-couple-bought-a-derelict-victorian-water-tower-in-england-for-138000-in-1997-after-a-seven-year-restoration/articleshow/135615406.cms"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "A £138,000 Victorian water tower in Lymm, England has been transformed over seven years into a modern family residence. Initially bought by Russell and Jannette Harris in 1997, the Grade II-listed tower underwent a £830,000 renovation by architect Julian Baker of Ellis Williams Architects. Completed in 2004, the five-bedroom home combines historic octagonal structure with contemporary living spaces, rooftop hot tub, and private cinema. The property, including telecommunications equipment on the upper floor, generates an estimated £75,000 in annual rental income. The house, with its combination of Victorian stonework and modern glass, steel, and minimalist interiors, was featured on Channel 4's Grand Designs and received several architectural awards. The Harrises, after living in the property for over two decades, are now selling it for over £3 million.",
  "summary": "Lymm Water Tower, a historical gem dating back to the 19th century, has undergone an incredible metamorphosis into an opulent residence. After acquiring the tower in 1997, the owners dedicated seven years to its remarkable restoration. Featuring a luxurious rooftop hot tub and generating income through telecommunications leases, this property is a rare find. Previously priced at £2.",
  "key_points": [
    "£138,000 Victorian water tower transformed into £3M family home",
    "Russell and Jannette Harris bought property in 1997",
    "Grade II-listed tower renovated by Julian Baker's firm"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}