Episodios

  • 10 Reasons to Rent a Beach Hut This Summer | Why Hire a Beach Hut

    10 Reasons to Rent a Beach Hut This Summer | Why Hire a Beach Hut
    Jun 1 2025

    Natalie shares her top 10 reasons to consider hiring a beach hut for your next getaway. From the unbeatable ocean views and the relaxing atmosphere to the plethora of water activities and the opportunity for quality time with loved ones, Natalie highlights the unique experiences that beach huts offer. She emphasises the flexibility and freedom they provide, allowing guests to escape the ordinary and recharge in a beautiful coastal setting. Whether you're seeking a romantic retreat or a fun family adventure, this episode encourages listeners to embrace the beach hut lifestyle and create lasting memories. Tune in for valuable insights and tips on making the most of your beach hut experience!

    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    1. Unbeatable Views: Renting a beach hut offers stunning ocean views, making every moment feel picturesque, whether it's sunrises, sunsets, or the beauty of the beach huts themselves.

    2. Relaxation and Tranquillity: Beach huts are typically located in serene settings, providing an ideal environment to unwind and disconnect from daily life, with the soothing sounds of the ocean enhancing relaxation.

    3. Variety of Activities: Many beach huts provide easy access to water sports and creative activities, allowing guests to engage in bodyboarding, surfing, or even artistic pursuits like crocheting or writing.

    4. Quality Time with Loved Ones: Beach huts create opportunities for families and friends to bond, share experiences, and create lasting memories in a beautiful coastal setting.

    5. Flexibility and Escape from Routine: Renting a beach hut allows for a flexible schedule, enabling guests to explore local attractions or simply enjoy the beach, making it a perfect escape from the ordinary.

    BEST MOMENTS

    "Renting a beach hut can be an absolute blast. And here are my top 10 reasons why you should hire a beach hut this summer."

    "Beach huts are usually located in tranquil and even remote settings, allowing you to unwind, disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life."

    "You might discover hidden gems, try new foods, or stumble upon local secrets."

    "Imagine candlelit dinners, even if it's fish and chip suppers. Sunset strolls and cozy nights by the fire pit."

    "Renting a beach hut can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience or a regular tradition."

    HOST BIO

    My name is Natalie Young. I bought a beach hut to bring joy into my life after escaping an abusive relationship and a difficult divorce. Based in Christchurch, Dorset, my beach hut is affectionally called the Salty Seagull and is located on Friars Cliff beach with sea views to the Needles on the Isle of White. It is my slice of heaven.

    Owning and hiring a beach hut is more complicated than I realised and I am on a constant mission to discover the best ways to manage and care for your hut. I have researched the pros and cons of renting and the best ways to market and host.

    The beach, the sights and the sounds of the sea bring me huge joy. I hope this podcast will bring you smiles, laughter and joy too!

    https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559730024536&sk=about

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/103555627/admin/feed/posts/?feedType=following

    PODCAST DESCRIPTION

    Welcome to the Bonkers about Beach Huts podcast, the show that's all about beach huts!

    Whether you are thinking of buying a beach hut and don’t know where to begin or if you have had a beach hut in your family for generations this podcast is for you.

    As I travel across the UK exploring these coastal retreats and sharing personal stories of how the humble beach hut has shaped lives, I will also be creating the UK's first beach hut map. I will give tips on where and how to buy a beach hut. And share everything you need to know about beach hut maintenance plus advice on hiring a beach hut.

    We will be chatting with special guests from estate agents to lock specialists, beach hut associations to beach hut builders, and artists to interior designers.

    If you don’t know what all the fuss is about, join us every week and you too will become a little bit Bonkers Bbout Beach Huts.

    This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    8 m
  • Creating Memories: The Transformative Impact of Beach Huts and Nature

    Creating Memories: The Transformative Impact of Beach Huts and Nature
    May 18 2025
    In this episode, Natalie welcomes Rachel, a former nursery nurse turned creative entrepreneur, to discuss the profound inspiration that the sea and nature provide in our lives. They explore the reasons why people are drawn to beach huts, emphasising the importance of proximity to the sea for relaxation and creativity. Rachel shares her journey from working with children to managing family support services, highlighting the significance of play and creativity in both childhood and adulthood. The conversation delves into the therapeutic benefits of crafting, the joy of engaging with nature, and the importance of creating memories through simple experiences. Rachel also introduces her sustainable craft business, where she hand-prints fabric and creates unique items, encouraging listeners to embrace their creativity and find joy in the little moments of life. KEY TAKEAWAYS Importance of Play in Learning: Engaging children in play-based learning, such as crafting and exploring nature, is vital for their development. It helps them learn essential skills like communication, sharing, and problem-solving. Impact of Nature on Well-being: Being close to nature, particularly the sea, can have a profound effect on mental health and happiness. Engaging with the environment through all senses—sight, sound, touch, and smell—can enhance feelings of relaxation and connection. Creativity for Adults: Crafting and creative activities are not just beneficial for children; they also provide adults with a valuable outlet for self-expression and relaxation. Engaging in creative pursuits can lead to a sense of achievement and improved mental well-being. Creating Memories: Small artifacts or experiences, such as a visit to the beach, can trigger strong memories and emotions. Capturing these moments through photographs or keepsakes can help individuals reconnect with positive feelings during challenging times. Permission to Pause: In a fast-paced society, it's essential to give oneself permission to take breaks and enjoy moments of stillness. Allowing time for reflection and play can lead to greater happiness and fulfillment in life. BEST MOMENTS Rachel: "I think the whole culture of society is changing so that there is much more emphasis now on computers and on television... we've lost that opportunity to just play." Rachel: "For children, learning is fun and play is fun. That's one of the cruxes for children and having the opportunity to be expressive." Rachel: "It's about laying those foundations in terms of the connection with the sea and open space... the freedom that the beach gives." Natalie: "If we're not careful, nature is going to be eaten up, and we don't all want to be in these big concrete urban masses with little access to nature." Rachel: "I think it's about creating little pockets of memories... giving yourself time to remember that it is okay to say I'm not okay and I need some time for me." HOST BIO My name is Natalie Young. I bought a beach hut to bring joy into my life after escaping an abusive relationship and a difficult divorce. Based in Christchurch, Dorset, my beach hut is affectionally called the Salty Seagull and is located on Friars Cliff beach with sea views to the Needles on the Isle of White. It is my slice of heaven. Owning and hiring a beach hut is more complicated than I realised and I am on a constant mission to discover the best ways to manage and care for your hut. I have researched the pros and cons of renting and the best ways to market and host. The beach, the sights and the sounds of the sea bring me huge joy. I hope this podcast will bring you smiles, laughter and joy too! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559730024536&sk=about https://www.linkedin.com/company/103555627/admin/feed/posts/?feedType=following PODCAST DESCRIPTION Welcome to the Bonkers about Beach Huts podcast, the show that's all about beach huts! Whether you are thinking of buying a beach hut and don’t know where to begin or if you have had a beach hut in your family for generations this podcast is for you. As I travel across the UK exploring these coastal retreats and sharing personal stories of how the humble beach hut has shaped lives, I will also be creating the UK's first beach hut map. I will give tips on where and how to buy a beach hut. And share everything you need to know about beach hut maintenance plus advice on hiring a beach hut. We will be chatting with special guests from estate agents to lock specialists, beach hut associations to beach hut builders, and artists to interior designers. If you don’t know what all the fuss is about, join us every week and you too will become a little bit Bonkers Bbout Beach Huts. This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
    Más Menos
    30 m
  • Memories and Investments: The Emotional and Economic Value of Beach Huts in Today's Market

    Memories and Investments: The Emotional and Economic Value of Beach Huts in Today's Market
    Apr 20 2025
    In this episode, Natalie welcomes Andrew, a seasoned Chief Investment Officer and Business and Investment Strategist, to the show to discuss his extensive experience in real estate and property investment. Andrew shares insights into the differences between real estate and property terminology, the impact of technology on shopping habits and town centres, and the unique characteristics of beach huts as investment assets. He reflects on the emotional connections people have with beach huts, highlighting their value beyond mere financial investment. KEY TAKEAWAYS The terms "real estate" and "property" are often used interchangeably, with "property" being more common in the UK and "real estate" in North America. Both refer to the same concept, but "real estate" may encompass a broader range of assets. The rise of e-commerce and technology has significantly changed consumer behaviour, leading to a decline in traditional retail spaces. This shift has resulted in a polarisation of the market, where successful regional shopping centres thrive while many high streets struggle. Beach huts, while smaller and less conventional than typical real estate investments, hold unique value due to their location and the experiences they provide. Their scarcity and the emotional connections people have with them contribute to their rising prices. The property investment landscape is evolving, with challenges such as economic turbulence and changing consumer preferences. However, there remains a strong demand for affordable housing, indicating potential opportunities in the residential market. The importance of ongoing education and adaptation in the real estate sector is emphasised, particularly with the emergence of AI and new investment strategies. Modern learning methods allow for flexible and accessible education, enhancing professional development in the field. BEST MOMENTS "I've worked on global projects across shopping centres, office blocks, industrial warehouses, and more recently have got involved in residential over the last 20 years or so." "People are always shocked about beach hut prices. And the Daily Mail, they love to do articles every time a really expensive feature goes up for sale." "The fundamentals of it, it's not interchangeable with anything else particularly. So one would assume that the value of the hut would stay strong in real terms because it can't be substituted easily." "You mentioned that you're utilising this time to do some additional learning and training, which I think is brilliant because I think the days when we used to go to school and then you'd go into employment and that's where you'd stay and the learning stopped." "At the end of the day, it's a shed on the beach. It is. But yeah, it's not quite as much fun as playing in my garden shed." HOST BIO My name is Natalie Young. I bought a beach hut to bring joy into my life after escaping an abusive relationship and a difficult divorce. Based in Christchurch, Dorset, my beach hut is affectionally called the Salty Seagull and is located on Friars Cliff beach with sea views to the Needles on the Isle of White. It is my slice of heaven. Owning and hiring a beach hut is more complicated than I realised and I am on a constant mission to discover the best ways to manage and care for your hut. I have researched the pros and cons of renting and the best ways to market and host. The beach, the sights and the sounds of the sea bring me huge joy. I hope this podcast will bring you smiles, laughter and joy too! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559730024536&sk=about https://www.linkedin.com/company/103555627/admin/feed/posts/?feedType=following PODCAST DESCRIPTION Welcome to the Bonkers about Beach Huts podcast, the show that's all about beach huts! Whether you are thinking of buying a beach hut and don’t know where to begin or if you have had a beach hut in your family for generations this podcast is for you. As I travel across the UK exploring these coastal retreats and sharing personal stories of how the humble beach hut has shaped lives, I will also be creating the UK's first beach hut map. I will give tips on where and how to buy a beach hut. And share everything you need to know about beach hut maintenance plus advice on hiring a beach hut. We will be chatting with special guests from estate agents to lock specialists, beach hut associations to beach hut builders, and artists to interior designers. If you don’t know what all the fuss is about, join us every week and you too will become a little bit Bonkers Bbout Beach Huts.
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    34 m
  • How To Refelt Your Beach Hut Roof

    How To Refelt Your Beach Hut Roof
    Apr 13 2025

    In this episode, Natalie chats with Sean, a construction director with over 40 years of experience in various sectors of the industry, including residential, commercial, and military projects. Sean shares his journey into construction, influenced by his family's long history in carpentry, and discusses his transition from hands-on work to management. They discuss practical advice for DIY enthusiasts, focusing on the challenges of replacing a felt roof on a beach hut.

    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    • Sean has a long history in construction, stemming from a family legacy of carpenters. He initially worked alongside his father before pursuing an engineering degree and moving into management roles.

    • Replacing a felt roof on a beach hut can be challenging due to limited space between huts, which makes it difficult to maneuver tools and materials. Additionally, the timing of repairs is crucial, as heavy maintenance is often restricted to certain seasons.

    • When refelting a roof, it's important to choose high-quality materials. While mineral felt is common, rubberised products may offer greater longevity in harsh environments, such as those near the sea.

    • Proper preparation is essential for a successful roofing project. This includes having the right tools, such as stepladders, a Stanley knife, and a good quality adhesive, as well as accurately measuring the roof to determine the amount of felt needed.

    • Safety is paramount when undertaking DIY projects. Watching instructional videos, using sharp tools carefully, and considering protective gear can help ensure a safer working environment. Investing in quality materials can also lead to longer-lasting results, reducing the need for frequent repairs.

    BEST MOMENTS

    "When i first stared work, i thought working out in the elements was absolutely fantastic, then I went through the first winter and realised that it was absolutely freezing and not for me."

    "The issue with doing the work yourself is the quantity that you actually have to buy as felt for example comes in a roll, which can mean that it's expensive when you only need a small amount for a beach hut. Rather than maybe getting somebody in who does it on a regular basis."

    "Some councils only allow heavy beach hut maintenance at certain times of the year, usually off-season, thereby restricting work to times when the weather is less favourable."

    "If you're doing it from a DIY point of view, using good quality materials means it will last longer. You don't want to be replacing the roof again in four or five or six or seven years."

    "It's always good to have good quality and sharp tools. Makes the job that little bit easier."

    HOST BIO

    My name is Natalie Young. I bought a beach hut to bring joy into my life after escaping an abusive relationship and a difficult divorce. Based in Christchurch, Dorset, my beach hut is affectionately called the Salty Seagull and is located on Friars Cliff beach with sea views to the Needles on the Isle of White. It is my slice of heaven.

    Owning and hiring a beach hut is more complicated than I realised and I am on a constant mission to discover the best ways to manage and care for your hut. I have researched the pros and cons of renting and the best ways to market and host.

    The beach, the sights and the sounds of the sea bring me huge joy. I hope this podcast will bring you smiles, laughter and joy too!

    https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559730024536&sk=about

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/103555627/admin/feed/posts/?feedType=following

    PODCAST DESCRIPTION

    Welcome to the Bonkers about Beach Huts podcast, the show that's all about beach huts!

    Whether you are thinking of buying a beach hut and don’t know where to begin or if you have had a beach hut in your family for generations this podcast is for you.

    As I travel across the UK exploring these coastal retreats and sharing personal stories of how the humble beach hut has shaped lives, I will also be creating the UK's first beach hut map. I will give tips on where and how to buy a beach hut. And share everything you need to know about beach hut maintenance plus advice on hiring a beach hut.

    We will be chatting with special guests from estate agents to lock specialists, beach hut associations to beach hut builders, and artists to interior designers.

    If you don’t know what all the fuss is about, join us every week and you too will become a little bit Bonkers Bbout Beach Huts.
    Más Menos
    16 m
  • Unusual Beach Huts of the UK: A Journey from Sussex to Kent

    Unusual Beach Huts of the UK: A Journey from Sussex to Kent
    Apr 6 2025
    Natalie celebrates the arrival of spring and the joys of beach hut culture along the British seaside. She shares her top five favourite unusual and extravagant beach huts, starting with the innovative Spyglass in Eastbourne, which rotates to follow the sun, and the artistic What Unearthed, inspired by local archaeological finds. The episode also highlights the quirky Crazy Golf 18 Holes in Folkestone, created from a repurposed crazy golf course, and a striking lighthouse-style beach hut by artist Pablo Branston. Finally, Natalie takes listeners back in time to Weymouth to explore a replica of the historical bathing machine used by King George III. This episode is a delightful exploration of unique beach huts that embody creativity and history, perfect for anyone planning a seaside getaway. KEY TAKEAWAYS Spring and Beach Hut Season: The arrival of spring brings longer daylight hours and the opportunity to enjoy beach days, prompting thoughts about holiday plans, particularly trips to the British seaside. Unique Beach Huts in Eastbourne: Eastbourne features two extraordinary beach huts, the Spyglass and What Unearthed, both designed as part of an initiative to create iconic beach hut designs. The Spyglass is notable for its ability to rotate for optimal views, while What Unearthed is inspired by local archaeological discoveries. Folkestone's Artistic Beach Huts: Folkestone is home to several remarkable beach huts, including Crazy Golf 18 Holes, created by sculptor Richard Wilson, which repurposes elements of a former crazy golf course, and a lighthouse-style hut by Pablo Branstein, which pays homage to 18th-century architectural styles. Historical Bathing Machines in Weymouth: Weymouth features a replica of a bathing machine, an early form of beach hut used by King George III. This wheeled structure allowed for modesty while bathing and represents a significant piece of seaside history. Exploration and Recommendations: The episode encourages listeners to explore these unique beach huts and historical structures during their summer travels, while also promoting other podcast episodes that delve deeper into specific topics related to beach huts and their history. BEST MOMENTS "The Spyglass is a unique beach hut because it was designed to move. It was mounted on a recessed turntable and the hut was designed to rotate 180 degrees to give you the best view." - Natalie Young "What's Unearthed is a striking geometric beach hut... inspired by local archaeological discoveries." - Natalie Young "He recycled an old crazy golf course, sawing it up into three sculptures in the shape of three beach huts." - Natalie Young "This fabulous hut is situated next to other brightly coloured huts along the waterfront and alongside the council's more mundane arrangements for parking maintenance." - Natalie Young "The bathing machine allowed the better off to enjoy the sea and at the same time protect their modesty whilst they took a dip." - Natalie Young Beach Huts Featured: https://jakstudio.co.uk/the-spy-glass/ https://www.foleyarchitects.com/case-studies/eastbourne-beach-hut https://www.richardwilsonsculptor.com/sculpture/18-holes-2008.html https://youtu.be/_w7u0suA7hI?si=1udIkiQLkL9Q09Up https://www.countrylife.co.uk/out-and-about/the-remarkable-tale-of-the-bathing-machine-258941 HOST BIO My name is Natalie Young. I bought a beach hut to bring joy into my life after escaping an abusive relationship and a difficult divorce. Based in Christchurch, Dorset, my beach hut is affectionally called the Salty Seagull and is located on Friars Cliff beach with sea views to the Needles on the Isle of White. It is my slice of heaven. Owning and hiring a beach hut is more complicated than I realised and I am on a constant mission to discover the best ways to manage and care for your hut. I have researched the pros and cons of renting and the best ways to market and host. The beach, the sights and the sounds of the sea bring me huge joy. I hope this podcast will bring you smiles, laughter and joy too! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559730024536&sk=about https://www.linkedin.com/company/103555627/admin/feed/posts/?feedType=following PODCAST DESCRIPTION Welcome to the Bonkers about Beach Huts podcast, the show that's all about beach huts! Whether you are thinking of buying a beach hut and don’t know where to begin or if you have had a beach hut in your family for generations this podcast is for you. As I travel across the UK exploring these coastal retreats and sharing personal stories of how the humble beach hut has shaped lives, I will also be creating the UK's first beach hut map. I will give tips on where and how to buy a beach hut. And share everything you need to know about beach hut maintenance plus advice on hiring a beach hut. We will be chatting with special guests from estate agents to lock specialists, beach hut associations to beach hut builders, and artists to interior designers. If you don’...
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    15 m
  • The Intersection of Art and Business: Liam Gilby Discusses Animation in the Coastal Experience

    The Intersection of Art and Business: Liam Gilby Discusses Animation in the Coastal Experience
    Mar 31 2025
    In this episode, Natalie sits down with Liam Gilbey, an animator and motion designer from Cut the Mustard Animation, a Norwich-based studio specialising in bespoke 2D animations. Liam shares insights into his journey from studying at the Norwich University of the Arts to co-founding a successful animation company in 2019, just before the pandemic. Liam discusses the creative process behind Cut the Mustard animations, the importance of storytelling, and the joy of capturing nostalgia through hand-drawn art. KEY TAKEAWAYS Founded in 2019, this Norwich-based animation studio specialises in bespoke 2D animations, focusing on illustrative and nature-themed work. The team consists of four close collaborators who have been working together since university. The studio has developed a significant partnership with a local beach hut for hire, creating over a dozen films to promote it. This collaboration has allowed them to explore various seasonal themes and showcase the charm of the beach hut experience. The animation process involves several steps, including story breakdowns, storyboarding, and creating style frames. The team emphasises the importance of front-loading decisions to avoid extensive revisions later in the hand-drawn animation process. The work produced often evokes feelings of nostalgia and warmth, which are essential in connecting with audiences. The animations aim to capture the timeless charm of beach hut experiences, appealing to both local and distant visitors. A key piece of advice for aspiring animators is to maintain an open mind and continuously learn. This adaptability not only enhances professional skills but also enriches personal growth and creativity in storytelling. BEST MOMENTS "We kept the net so widely open, we'd start drawing this, and we'd start drawing that, and what followed was some of the best work and a chance to work with wildlife trusts." "I was delighted to find this unique and clever animation for a beach hut in Norfolk." "Animation is ultimately a slow process. It takes a while to see the end product. So for clients, and obviously for somebody like the beach hut client (who we have worked with plenty of times before), there's that faith." "The details matter. The fact that we put in the effort to focus on the details means that probably the viewer doesn't even need to notice that they're there." "It's amazing actually, that more people haven't thought to promote their beach huts with animation." LINKS https://www.cutthemustardanimation.com https://www.instagram.com/cutthemustard_animation/ https://www.youtube.com/@CutTheMustardAnimation https://www.youtube.com/@CutTheMustardAnimation HOST BIO My name is Natalie Young. I bought a beach hut to bring joy into my life after escaping an abusive relationship and a difficult divorce. Based in Christchurch, Dorset, my beach hut is affectionally called the Salty Seagull and is located on Friars Cliff beach with sea views to the Needles on the Isle of White. It is my slice of heaven. Owning and hiring a beach hut is more complicated than I realised and I am on a constant mission to discover the best ways to manage and care for your hut. I have researched the pros and cons of renting and the best ways to market and host. The beach, the sights and the sounds of the sea bring me huge joy. I hope this podcast will bring you smiles, laughter and joy too! https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559730024536&sk=about https://www.linkedin.com/company/103555627/admin/feed/posts/?feedType=following PODCAST DESCRIPTION Welcome to the Bonkers about Beach Huts podcast, the show that's all about beach huts! Whether you are thinking of buying a beach hut and don’t know where to begin or if you have had a beach hut in your family for generations this podcast is for you. As I travel across the UK exploring these coastal retreats and sharing personal stories of how the humble beach hut has shaped lives, I will also be creating the UK's first beach hut map. I will give tips on where and how to buy a beach hut. And share everything you need to know about beach hut maintenance plus advice on hiring a beach hut. We will be chatting with special guests from estate agents to lock specialists, beach hut associations to beach hut builders, and artists to interior designers. If you don’t know what all the fuss is about, join us every week and you too will become a little bit Bonkers Bbout Beach Huts.
    Más Menos
    40 m
  • Exploring the Creative World of Architecture in Beach Huts with Jacob

    Exploring the Creative World of Architecture in Beach Huts with Jacob
    Mar 17 2025

    In this episode, Natalie sits down with architect Jacob to discuss the multifaceted world of architecture. They touch on Jacob's journey from industrial design to creating innovative spaces, including his recent project, the Spyglass beach hut in Eastbourne. Jacob shares insights into the creative process behind architectural design, the importance of client collaboration, and the challenges of working with small spaces. He also highlights the unique features of the Spyglass, including its ability to move and its thoughtful design elements.

    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    • Architecture encompasses a wide range of disciplines, including sociology, politics, creativity, and sustainability, making it a multifaceted and rewarding profession.

    • The relationship between clients and architects is crucial, as architects must interpret clients' briefs—whether they are descriptive, visual, or detailed—to create a vision that meets their needs.

    • Designing small structures, like beach huts, requires innovative thinking to maximise functionality within limited space, often drawing inspiration from other fields such as yacht or transport design.

    • The Spyglass beach hut utilised a car turntable for movement, showcasing how unconventional methods can be employed in architectural design to achieve unique functionalities.

    • Architecture can evolve over time, as seen with the Spyglass, which was repurposed into a café after its initial construction. This adaptability highlights the ongoing relationship between buildings and their communities.

    BEST MOMENTS

    "It's an amazing job in many respects, because as a professional, you kind of touch so many different things. It's amazing to see things you've kind of worked on for very long periods of time come to life in the kind of built form."

    "There's often a people before they come to the architects or designer that have a brief and they have their own, maybe their own requirements, even a bit of their own vision."

    "I think there's so many clever things you need to think about within a very small space, it forces you to be innovative."

    "I guess with small spaces, I would have thought architecture is even more important because you've got a limited amount of space that you've got to maximise."

    "It was designed around a plywood structure and how they'd make a say a spitfire wing. A series of plywood ribs that were then clad and then sprayed in a kind of a concrete final concrete finish."

    HOST BIO

    My name is Natalie Young. I bought a beach hut to bring joy into my life after escaping an abusive relationship and a difficult divorce. Based in Christchurch, Dorset, my beach hut is affectionally called the Salty Seagull and is located on Friars Cliff beach with sea views to the Needles on the Isle of White. It is my slice of heaven.

    Owning and hiring a beach hut is more complicated than I realised and I am on a constant mission to discover the best ways to manage and care for your hut. I have researched the pros and cons of renting and the best ways to market and host.

    The beach, the sights and the sounds of the sea bring me huge joy. I hope this podcast will bring you smiles, laughter and joy too!

    https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559730024536&sk=about

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/103555627/admin/feed/posts/?feedType=following

    PODCAST DESCRIPTION

    Welcome to the Bonkers about Beach Huts podcast, the show that's all about beach huts!

    Whether you are thinking of buying a beach hut and don’t know where to begin or if you have had a beach hut in your family for generations this podcast is for you.

    As I travel across the UK exploring these coastal retreats and sharing personal stories of how the humble beach hut has shaped lives, I will also be creating the UK's first beach hut map. I will give tips on where and how to buy a beach hut. And share everything you need to know about beach hut maintenance plus advice on hiring a beach hut.

    We will be chatting with special guests from estate agents to lock specialists, beach hut associations to beach hut builders, and artists to interior designers.

    If you don’t know what all the fuss is about, join us every week and you too will become a little bit Bonkers Bbout Beach Huts.
    Más Menos
    27 m
  • A Sanctuary by the Sea: Serena Mitchell on the Joys and Challenges of Beach Hut Ownership

    A Sanctuary by the Sea: Serena Mitchell on the Joys and Challenges of Beach Hut Ownership
    Jan 27 2025

    In this episode, Natalie welcomes communication specialist and beach hut owner Serena Mitchell to discuss her unique beach hut named after her ancestor, Martha Gunn, a legendary sea bathing dipper from the Regency period. Serena shares her journey of acquiring the beach hut in 2017 and the joy it brings her as a space for relaxation and creativity. They also consider the recent controversial changes imposed by Brighton & Hove Council regarding transfer fees and license agreements for beach hut owners, which have sparked community outrage and a campaign against what Serena describes as a "stealth tax."

    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    • Serena's beach hut is named after her ancestor, Martha Gunn, a notable figure in Brighton's history known for her role as a sea bathing dipper in the Regency period. This connection highlights the cultural significance of beach huts in the area.

    • The Brighton & Hove Beach Hut Association was formed to advocate against significant increases in transfer fees imposed by the council, which rose from £85 to either 10% of the sale price or four times the annual license fee, representing a 3,000% increase.

    • The council's financial struggles led them to target beach hut owners for revenue, which sparked community outrage and a campaign against what was termed a "stealth tax." The lack of effective communication and preparation from council members during consultations further fueled discontent.

    • Serena describes her beach hut as a personal sanctuary, providing a space for relaxation, creativity, and social gatherings. It serves as a retreat from her work life and a place to enjoy the coastal environment.

    • Owning a beach hut comes with significant ongoing costs, including maintenance and licensing fees, which can exceed £1,000 annually. Despite these challenges, the emotional and recreational value of the hut remains a priority for owners like Serena.

    BEST MOMENTS

    "The council thought, well, actually, we've seen prices of beach huts, so they were starting to exchange for silly money. A garden shed that had been £20,000 was going for up to £40,000."

    "We calculated that that was a 3,000% increase from an £85 admin fee to what, in effect, was a stealth tax."

    "It almost feels like the council don't really understand the benefits that the beach hut community are bringing into the area and to the community."

    "I think being carried out in a coffin. I think for as long as I live in Brighton and Hove, I will have my hut."

    "The irony of ironies, it was just announced the I360 is going into administration. It owes the council £51 million."

    HOST BIO

    My name is Natalie Young. I bought a beach hut to bring joy into my life after escaping an abusive relationship and a difficult divorce. Based in Christchurch, Dorset, my beach hut is affectionally called the Salty Seagull and is located on Friars Cliff beach with sea views to the Needles on the Isle of White. It is my slice of heaven.

    Owning and hiring a beach hut is more complicated than I realised and I am on a constant mission to discover the best ways to manage and care for your hut. I have researched the pros and cons of renting and the best ways to market and host.

    The beach, the sights and the sounds of the sea bring me huge joy. I hope this podcast will bring you smiles, laughter and joy too!

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    PODCAST DESCRIPTION

    Welcome to the Bonkers about Beach Huts podcast, the show that's all about beach huts!

    Whether you are thinking of buying a beach hut and don’t know where to begin or if you have had a beach hut in your family for generations this podcast is for you.

    As I travel across the UK exploring these coastal retreats and sharing personal stories of how the humble beach hut has shaped lives, I will also be creating the UK's first beach hut map. I will give tips on where and how to buy a beach hut. And share everything you need to know about beach hut maintenance plus advice on hiring a beach hut.

    We will be chatting with special guests from estate agents to lock specialists, beach hut associations to beach hut builders, and artists to interior designers.

    If you don’t know what all the fuss is about, join us every week and you too will become a little bit Bonkers Bbout Beach Huts.
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