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Hey, I’m Ollie — and I’m currently learning how to renovate a 1930s house the hard way.
My Rookie Reno started as a simple idea: show the real, unfiltered process of fixing up an old house with zero experience, a lot of determination, and a slightly questionable “how hard can it be?” mindset.
I bought a 1930s solid-brick home in rough shape — damp issues, blown plaster, failing cement render, ancient wiring, the lot. Instead of paying for huge quotes I couldn’t afford, I decided to do as much as possible myself. And I film everything: the wins, the mistakes, the questionable techniques, and the satisfying bits in between.
To make renovation feel less intimidating for normal people. No gatekeeping, no perfect glossy before-afters, just honest DIY, learning in public, and showing that you don’t have to be an expert to start.
Along the way I’ve built a community of people who are renovating, thinking about renovating, or just enjoy watching someone else battle a crumbling house so they don’t have to. My videos now reach millions, and this website is the deeper side of the journey — proper breakdowns, what I’m researching, what I’m trying, what’s gone wrong, and what I’d do differently next time.
If you’re here for practical info, inspiration, chaos, or moral support… welcome.
I’m glad you’re along for the ride.
Mission
For anyone who’s thought ‘keep going, mate’ while watching — this is just a simple way to help more videos happen.
