MIDWEEK PROPERTY: PERFECT LODGING; Turning lodges into homes TINA MILES talks to two Liverpool home owners about the unusual appeal of living in a lodge house.

Byline: TINA MILES

LODGES are a popular choice for holiday accommodation, but the unusual features and character that make lodges so special, can also create ideal homes.

Michael Carey and Neil Sanford say they will be heartbroken to leave their Castellated Lodge in Claughton Village.

They are upping sticks to be closer to family.

The detached lodge, designed and built by Sir Joseph Paxton, was built in around 1850 and is a unique Grade II listed Park Lodge.

Michael says: ``The Lodges are an integral part of Birkenhead Park, which was the the first public park in England and was the blueprint for Central Park in New York.

``It's ideal for people who are looking for something different to the `norm'.

``The wow factor has to be a key part of living in such a property.It's apiece of history.''

Castellated Lodge has a large open plan fitted kitchen, two double bedrooms and a separate bathroom and WC.

The majority of the original period features have been maintained including gothic internal doors, sash windows, cellar,coving and fire surrounds.

As well as the distinctive fittings and fixtures, the property is surrounded by private gardens.

These provide a secluded environment offering peace and tranquillity.

Joanna Mallon didn't set out to buy a lodge when she began looking for her first home, but she was so overwhelmed with the beauty and character of the south Liverpool property that she couldn't resist its charm.

She says: ``I went to view a flat behind the lodge and got talking to a developer who was working on the lodge, but he told me that it was reserved.

Luckily for me that deal fell through. The lodge was put back on the market and we got our chance. ``The minute I walked in I knew instantly that I had to buy it,'' explains Joanna, who bought the house in November 1999.

``I loved the blend of old and new, with the beautiful 1900s architecture and the modern interior.

``It's such a pretty,lovely looking house and it's very peaceful.''

Before the lodge was fully renovated it had been disused and left vacant.

But the modernisation has made the property desirable for prospective home owners, especially young professional couples.

The detached lodge, which is likely to have once been a coach house, was built in the early 20th century and is close to Sefton Park.

There are many striking features,not found in newer properties, such as a sandstone beam running through the house and a sandstone wall and posts for the gates outside.

``The house is a lovely shape. One wall is curved and the upstairs is almost in the roof space due to the renovation, which is very quaint,'' explains Joanna.

``The main appeal of the lodge is its look - it is very cute and the location is a bonus.

``The view is lovely, the back overlooks other old houses and a walkway, and the front looks out onto a little road.''

The two bedroom lodge has a large driveway at the front, which is ideal for parking.

There is also a front garden that leads round to the side of the lodge.

``I'll be sad to leave,'' says Joanna, who is moving to up size to a bigger property.

To view either property or for more information: Castellated Lodge, Claughton Village, CH43, currently on the market at pounds 220,000-pounds 230,000,contact Michael Carey on 0151-201 8149.

The Lodge House, Ullet Road,L17 is currently on at pounds 285,000 contact Sutton Kersh on 0151 734 0666.

CAPTION(S):

CLASSY INTERIOR: The inside of Park Road West (above) has been designed and decorated to compliment the historic exterior (inset); PICTURE PERFECT: The Lodge on Ullet Road and its light and airy bedroom