The author’s unconventional home, and birthplace of her book Homesick, is to go under the hammer on the 25th March.
Known locally as “The Shop”, this shed became the residence of author Catrina Davies after she struggled to find a real home in the midst of Britain’s housing crisis. While living there, she recounted her experiences in the book Homesick: Why I Live In A Shed, which was longlisted for the Baillie Gifford Prize.
Having now moved to a larger shed to house her growing family, The Shop is to be sold for a guide price of £80,000 - £100,000 (plus fees) by Auction House South West.
A writing retreat
The Shop was originally bought by Catrina’s father in 1989, where it was used as an office space for his business. When this venture failed, the shed was left empty for many years.
After struggling with precarious living arrangements, Catrina was drawn back to the land of her childhood and set about transforming her father’s former workspace into her personal refuge, where she wrote her book, made music and surfed on the nearby beaches.
Inside, The Shop offers open plan living, with an airy living/dining area covering the entirety of the floor space. Warmth is provided by a multi-fuel stove, while appliances are powered by mains electricity. A mezzanine floor contains the bedroom, which is accessed by a ladder.
Outside the property is a shower room and W.C., which are linked to the mains water supply. There is also a garden and off-road parking.
Living in the landscape
The Shop acts as a gateway to access all the natural beauty of Cornwall. Located in Polgigga, a rural hamlet in St Levan, the shed provides easy access to scenic spots such as Land’s End and Porthcurno. Nanjizal Bay is also only a short distance away, a dramatic cove famed for its ‘song of the sea’ arch and tidal pool.
Surfing hotspots, such as Gwynver Beach and Sennen Cove, are just short drives away and offer consistent surfing conditions.
For a host of amenities, future residents can drive around 20 minutes to Penzance, a lively market town packed with great restaurants, bars, independent shops and galleries.
A home away from home
Commenting on the property, Katie Roberts, Area Manager for Cornwall at Auction House South West, said: “Positioned close to the sea, this unique property would be wonderfully suited for those wanting a special coastal retreat.
“A buyer could revamp the space to create a holiday let or their own home away from home – a snug, tucked away place to enjoy the peace of reading, writing or crafting. Alternatively, surfing enthusiasts could transform it into a fantastic base for their outdoor adventures. Fans of Catrina Davis and her book Homesick will also be drawn to this property and the rare chance it offers her readers to share her lived experiences.”
The property will be sold via livestream auction at 11am on Wednesday, 25th March. Buyers who would like to view The Shop can call the Auction House South West team on 01872 484888 to arrange a viewing.
