June 10th 2024.
The house located in Downham, Bromley, South East London, is quite the sight to see. Covered from top to bottom in a stunning Virginia creeper, this home has become quite famous in the neighborhood. However, after almost 50 years of growth, the massive plant may finally be getting a trim. Michael and Teresa Lye have been living in this home since 1984, when they purchased it for a mere £24,000. This historic estate, opened in the 1920s by a member of the royal family, was known for its beautiful homes adorned with Virginia creeper. The council even provided residents with this plant to enhance the appearance of their homes.
Upon moving in, the Lyes attempted to control the growth of the Virginia creeper, but it proved to be a daunting task. The plant grew at a rapid pace and now covers almost every inch of their home, except for small areas of the windows and an extension wall. Teresa, who recently lost her husband, has found comfort in the insulating properties of the plant. However, some of the locals are now calling for the creeper to be trimmed back.
Mark Philpot, a neighbor, finds the home to be a bit out of place among the more modern and concrete structures in the area. He even jokingly commented that the plant probably attracts a lot of bugs. Another neighbor, 90-year-old Eric Sands, has lived in the neighborhood for many years and while he sympathizes with Teresa, he is not a fan of the overgrown plant. He mentioned that his family has been living in the area for 88 years and the home has always been covered in Virginia creeper.
For those unfamiliar with the plant, Virginia creeper is a fast-growing, deciduous climber with five leaves. While it may not cause damage to the brickwork, it is not recommended to let it grow excessively on houses. Building surveyor Brien Walker explained that the level of growth on this particular home could trap water and potentially damage the surfaces. However, it seems that the owners are not too bothered by this. As one neighbor put it, the overgrown look may just be a result of laziness rather than a planned aesthetic.
Despite some disapproval from the locals, the Lyes have become somewhat of local legends. The unique appearance of their home has attracted many passersby, often causing drivers to slow down to take a look and snap a photo. While some may not be a fan of the green-covered house, others find it to be a charming landmark in the neighborhood. As one neighbor stated, "I think the owners have become local legends. I always see people taking pictures and slowing down to have a look. I like it - it's a good landmark."
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