Nestled in the heart of Cheshire, the historic Lymm Water Tower has undergone a stunning transformation, thanks to the vision of audiophile Russell Harris. Once a derelict structure plagued by rotting floors and pigeons, the Victorian landmark has been meticulously renovated into a contemporary residence that harmoniously blends history and modernity.
Lymn Water Tower renovation
Harris, who has held a longstanding affection for the Water Tower, finally acquired the building in 1997 after years of unsuccessful negotiations with local authorities. He embarked on an ambitious renovation project that would take seven years to complete, jokingly stating, “If I knew it would take seven years, I might’ve chosen otherwise.” Under the guidance of Ellis Williams Architects, the tower was restored while a sleek, wrap-around extension was added to its octagonal base. Inspired by British architect John Pawson, Harris aimed for a serene aesthetic using a limited palette of materials—white resin, English oak, and limestone—enhanced by large glass elements that invite the colors of the surrounding garden and sky into his home.
The successful renovation earned Harris numerous accolades, including prestigious awards from the RIBA, British Lighting Design, and Manchester Evening News, and even caught the attention of Kevin McCloud, the well-known British designer.
With the renovation complete, Harris sought to elevate his home’s audio experience. Despite initially installing a comprehensive audio system, he felt ill-equipped compared to his audiophile friends. “I kept hearing about Amphion through reviews,” he explained. This led him to invest in the Argon 7LS speakers paired with a Hegel H390 amplifier—a decision he describes as revealing hidden depths in his favorite tracks. “I hadn’t realized how much I missed music,” he reflected.
Passion for sound
Harris’s passion for sound began in his youth; he built his own audio equipment, scavenging parts from local waste yards. His journey into high fidelity has come full circle as he discovers the joy of music anew. “Playing ‘I’m Coming Out’ by Diana Ross sent shivers up my sides—it’s like the music comes to life,” he said, reveling in the clarity and richness the Argon 7LS provides.
The architectural design of the Water Tower further enhances the sound, with its octagonal shape preventing echo and allowing for an immersive listening experience. Utilizing Tidal for music streaming ensures that the delivery of sound meets his high expectations. Harris has transformed listening into a ritual, often taking time to unwind in front of his speakers with a cozy fire, claiming it’s an experience unlike any he’s had in decades.
Amphion Argon7LS
Eager to showcase his new system, Harris invited a fellow audiophile for a blind listening test. His friend, unaware of the new purchase, was astounded by the sound quality of the Argon 7LS, affirming Harris’s decision to invest in the speakers as monumental.
Ultimately, the combination of the acoustically embracing Water Tower and the elegant Amphion Argon 7LS has rekindled Harris’s relationship with music. “The investment I made with Amphion is a gift that keeps on giving,” he said with a smile. “I light the fire and get lost in my music. I really don’t think I’ll ever change the system.”
