ISKA Muay Thai World Champion Charlie Guest and his wife, Mem, spent five years renovating a two-bedroom property in Andover, Hampshire, turning their first home into a long-term foundation before his upcoming featherweight clash against Luke “The Chef” Lessei at ONE Fight Night 48 on Prime Video.
Building a First Home in Andover
The couple purchased the older Hampshire property just before the COVID-19 pandemic struck. Working within a budget, they faced an extensive list of repairs and upgrades before the house could resemble a permanent residence. Rather than keeping the project private, the couple launched an Instagram account in November 2023 to record milestones ranging from fresh paint coats to custom-built furniture.
“We just decided to document it because it’s our very first home,” Guest said. “It’s a big deal for us. It’s something truly special, you know. We always had a goal, and we decided to buy it and do it up from there, really.”
Overcoming Childhood Instability Through Renovation
For Guest, the renovation project represents far more than interior design choices. Raised by his grandparents from a young age, the 30-year-old fighter views stability as a foundational element for a family. The property now features a spacious front garden and a large backyard shared with their German Shepherd, Roscoe.
“Hopefully, in the future to come, a baby would really complete this home,” Guest said. “Essentially, that is what a home is all about. We want to eventually have a family of our own with a few kids, have a great life, learn parenthood, and make their life great.”
Strengthening Partnership Through DIY Projects
The shared labor of tackling weekend DIY projects brought Guest and his wife closer together over the five-year period. Shopping for materials and constructing furniture transformed the house into a joint enterprise.
“Working on this project together, for sure, it’s brought us closer,” Guest stated. “It’s a hard feeling to explain, but, for sure, we’ve become closer as we’ve done loads of new activities together. From shopping for DIY furniture to building something together. It’s been fun and rewarding. Making a house a home is doing it all together.”
Unwinding Away from the Training Camp
When away from his training regimen with Impact MMA and Tiger Muay Thai, Guest favors a specific setup to decompress. The space houses his championship belt collection and a television setup shared with his wife and dog.
“My favorite spot has to be the hall,” Guest explained. “It has got my belt collection there, the TV, and we’ve got a nice long sofa where we all cuddle up – me, my wife, and my dog. It’s probably the most relaxing space in our home.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Charlie Guest?
Charlie Guest is an ISKA Muay Thai World Champion and fighter representing Impact MMA and Tiger Muay Thai, scheduled to face Luke Lessei at ONE Fight Night 48.
Where is Charlie Guest’s home located?
Guest and his wife reside in a two-bedroom house located in Andover, Hampshire.
When did Guest begin documenting his home renovations?
Guest started an Instagram account to track the property’s progress in November 2023, several years after purchasing the home ahead of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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