A 135-year-old iconic Middle Ground Lighthouse has been making headlines. The reason behind the widespread fascination with this Virginia lighthouse is the exceptional renovation that transformed the ocean structure into an off-grid maritime estate. The seafaring sanctuary is completely isolated from land and offers one-of-a-kind meditative solitude enveloped by the seascape of Chesapeake Bay in Virginia.
The beautiful journey of the historic Middle Ground Lighthouse’s remarkable transformation began when two couples, Dan and Jackie Billingsley, and Bob and Joan Gonsoulin, bought the property in 2005 for $31K. The couples did rigorous renovations to restore the century-old charm of the Virginia lighthouse and turn it into an adventurous family getaway.
The sanctuary offers a 1,251-square-foot living space with five stories connected through a circular staircase and a sixth story housing the lighthouse lantern. The lower level houses mechanical systems and offers space for storing water sports and safety gear. The second level has a main entrance to the Virginia lighthouse through the wraparound deck, which includes a cozy dining space and kitchen.
The dining space includes a curved wooden dining table with chairs designed to mimic the lighthouse’s round silhouette. The elongated bench pressed against the wall provides an additional sitting place. The large white pillar with a rose compass mural on the roof anchors the living space.
A vivid mural on the curved wall, above the open bookshelf adorned with maritime artifacts and books, imbues the space with a serene coastal charm. Near the bookshelf, a small study nook quietly sits under the window, which frames the beautiful ocean and sky. The kitchen area flaunts a lovely light-toned material palette through its large cabinetry and marble countertop. The hardwood floor contrasts sharply against the neutral walls and adds warmth to the room.
The third level includes a primary bedroom decorated with hand-painted murals on the wall. The decorative brickwork on the curved wall behind the cozy double bed serves as a dramatic rustic backdrop for the entire space. Several eye-catching maritime décor items, including a model boat and framed sea artworks, enhance the coastal aesthetic.
The fourth level includes a porthole room, daybeds, and game tables for entertainment. The fifth level, crowned by the lighthouse’s lantern, has a watchroom on the outer deck, from which coastal guards used to monitor ship traffic.
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The ocean property has ample off-grid utilities, including a USCG-approved marine sanitation system, a reliable diesel-generator backup, solar power, and a rainwater collection system. The lighthouse, surrounded by water on all fronts, remains accessible only by private boat.
The century-old Middle Ground Lighthouse offers a refreshing getaway into a serene seascape. You can watch dolphins and other marine life while enjoying private rafting or boating in the adventure-filled Chesapeake Bay. The current owners listed the maritime landmark property with Realtor.com for $995,000.
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