'I turned a ship into a studio'

All aboard!

When photographer Michele Turriani bought a decommissioned light vessel, Lightship 93, at auction for £20,000, he had no idea that it would be the start of a long and all-consuming obsession. Formerly owned and used by the nautical institution responsible for our lighthouses, Lightship 93, which is moored at Trinity Buoy Wharf on the River Thames, has been converted into a photographic studio where Michele works.

Courtesy of Coast magazine

Boat with a view

The glass tower of the marine photo studio affords great views of the river.

Red steel

The red steel-hulled vessel was in a good condition when Michele bought it in 2004. ‘My surveyor said he had never seen a ship of that age in such good condition,\' says Michele.

Industrial style

A refit for automation in the early 1980s meant that the ship\'s original features had been taken out, giving Michele a blank canvas to work on. He has fitted industrial-style, steel units and a woodburning stove in the centre of the kitchen area.

Salvage finds

The dining area has also been kitted out with steel cupboards and functional furniture. Michele has spent a long time in salvage yards looking for maritime paraphernalia, such as portholes and lamps, to suit the style of the lightship.

Steel office

Antique steel office furniture gives a utilitarian-chic feel.

Copper charm

The statement French copper bath sits very well in its maritime setting.

Comfy control room

The old control room is now the living area, complete with antique leather sofa and chair - Michele relaxes here when he\'s not working in the studio.