WhatHouse? Southern February 2015 by WhatHouse? Local

l r, or ca e o lo ap r d ur y p ou Yo ert to y op d pr ere liv de

London & Southern Edition

February 2015

MORTGAGES P4 AUCTIONS P9 PROPERTY INVESTMENT P23 GARDENS P44 INTERIORS P52

Let-to-buy – renting out your own home P3

Living for the city – our favourite urban apartments, P6

– review P15

A specialist Land & New Homes department providing a unique and professional service

Unrivalled network of 38 Sales and Lettings branches within the M25 and a further 300 nationally

0208 394 2993

Dedicated Land team

focusing on the acquisition and disposal of land and development opportunities

Specialist team of New Homes Managers

www.barnardmarcus.co.uk

co-ordinating and overseeing the sales of New Homes developments through our network of high street branches

@BarnardMarLNH

Whatever your requirements we can tailor make a service for you

London, Kent, Sussex, Surrey, Hampshire, Isle of Wight – Find your new home at Whathouse.com

Eight unique Grade II listed 2, 3 and 4 bedroom barns converted to a high specification, retaining many original features. All properties have private gardens with plots 1, 2 and 8 having the added benefit of a paddock. ‘The Barns’ Merton Grange is situated in an idyllic rural location on the edge of Gamlingay in South Cambridgeshire. The approach is via a private drive with far reaching views either side across fields.

Specification includes:  A range of contemporary and traditional kitchens  Stoves Richmond 900EI Stainless Steel Range Cooker*  Stainless Steel Cooker Hood  Integrated Neff appliances  Integrated Prima wine cooler  Utility rooms (not applicable to plot 3) come with either a washer/dryer or washing machine and tumble dryer  Bathroom and En-Suites have contemporary bathrooms with Ideal Standard Sanitaryware and are fully tiled with Porcelanosa tiles  Floors are finished with Porcelanosa floor tiles to Kitchen, Utility, Bathroom, En-suite, Cloakrooms and Carpets to all other areas*  Oak panelled internal doors with pewter finished door handles  Built in wardrobes to most bedrooms – please refer to sales layouts – with oak panelled doors and pewter finished door handles  Air Source Heating, offering reduced running costs, with under floor heating to all ground floor areas and radiators to upper floor rooms with 5 year service and warranty package. *Where possible we will be able to offer buyers variations and choices on the internal finishes, although the availability of this will depend upon the stage of construction that each property has reached when a reservation is made. For full specification details please see the brochure.

Tel : 01923 251799 Email: sales@leavalleyhomes.co.uk www.leavalleyhomes.co.uk Artists impressions shown are for illustrative purposes only.

let-to-buy 3

Find your new home at Whathouse.com

An introduction I to let-to-buy

Welcome!

Stephen Maunder investigates an interesting way of using your current home to start a property portfolio

f you have had one eye on the property market over the last year, you will have noticed the continuing popularity of buy-to-let, as increasing numbers of investors ploughed their money into property. You may not, however, have heard of let-to-buy.

The premise of let-to-buy is relatively straightforward, although the process can seem daunting. Historically, let-to-buy has often been seen as a last resort - the domain of homeowners struggling to sell their property or those who need to relocate for work but intend to return to their original

home in the future. In the current market, however, it could be a savvy way of starting a property portfolio. Let-to-buy is a particularly attractive proposition for homeowners who are equity rich but possess limited savings, and in a rising market can allow you to benefit from two properties increasing in value.

income from a property that was once your main home, so you could enjoy a significant reduction in your CGT bill when the time comes to sell up. You can also offset any interest payments on your mortgage against your rental income, which will help you cut your income tax bill.

THINGS TO CONSIDER Is becoming a landlord right for me? – The rental income on your

HOW IT WORKS

THE POSITIVES

Homeowners who own enough equity in their property can remortgage and release funds to use as a deposit on a new home. They can then let out their existing property and use its rental income to pay their mortgage. This frees up the opportunity to take out another mortgage on a new home. Unless you are letting your property on a temporary basis, you are likely to require a buy-to-let mortgage. Rates tend to be more expensive than residential loans and a deposit of at least 25% may be required. Specific let-to-buy mortgages are offered by very few lenders, though some will allow customers to use one of their buy-to-let deals on a let-to-buy basis. Not all let-to-buy deals are available on the high street, as some lenders only offer them through intermediaries. With this in mind, enlisting an independent mortgage broker could be an invaluable investment. Alternatively, it may be possible to take out two residential mortgages, provided your current lender gives you ‘consent to let’ your home in advance of you buying another. Some lenders won’t allow this, but it is an avenue worth exploring as it could help you get a lower interest rate.

High demand in the lettings market – Rents increased by 6.6%

across the UK last year according to research by HomeLet, and although price increases are expected to slow in 2015, the rental market is likely to remain buoyant, with demand significantly outstripping supply in many areas. Financially, it is an excellent time to be a landlord, as evidenced by the growing numbers of buy-to-let investors entering the market.

Property price growth – In a rising market, owning two properties allows you to enjoy two sets of capital growth. As we enter election year, there is much debate about the effect that political uncertainty may have on house prices in 2015, but most experts still believe prices will increase by somewhere between 3-6%. While property is generally considered a safe investment, what goes up can also come down, and multiple property owners will be among the most susceptible should the market fall. Tax breaks – Using buy-to-let, you

are liable to pay Capital Gains Tax (CGT) when you sell your investment property. However, by taking the letto-buy route, you will be gaining

home should be at least 25% more than your mortgage payment, so if your mortgage payment is £1,000, you will need to rent the property out for £1,250. This extra leeway covers uncertainties such as void periods, maintenance and interest rate changes. It is, therefore, vital to make your home desirable to tenants and ensure it will attract an acceptable income. Research the market very carefully, considering the requirements of your ideal tenants and remember that finding a reliable long-term tenant could save you a significant amount of money. Being a landlord isn’t for everyone, so you must consider which route you prefer to take when letting your property. Using a letting agent to find and reference check your tenants but managing the property yourself is a shrewd financial move, but comes with considerable pressure. Alternatively, using an agent to fully manage the property will help you release the burden, but will also eat in to your profits.

Is it financially viable? – If you are remortgaging to borrow more money, the likelihood is that you will be subject to a higher interest rate, and possibly a large application fee too. You should also be aware that once tenants have moved into your home it is then considered a buyto-let property. If you don’t have a suitable mortgage in place, this could result in your lender increasing your existing interest rate or charging you a significant fee, thereby limiting the amount of money you can raise on the property. Do your sums carefully – considering the total cost (including stamp duty) of purchasing your new home and the cost of letting out your current property.

Will red tape cause problems?

– Your plans might sound relatively simple on paper, but executing them in the current climate could become very complicated indeed. With mortgage applicants undergoing exhaustive stress tests since the changes implemented by the Mortgage Market Review came into effect, some lenders are reluctant to take on relatively complicated cases. As mentioned earlier, an independent mortgage broker could be the key to unlocking the best deal.

EXPERT ADVICE

Ray Boulger, senior technical manager at John Charcol Let-to-buy has a number of advantages, including taking away the myriad of issues (and stress) of trying to tie-in a sale and purchase, and enabling a decision on when to sell an existing property to be taken independently. There are also tax advantages compared to purchasing a property specifically as a buy-to-let investment. Any mortgage on the current property will either need to be refinanced by a buy-to-let mortgage or the existing lender must give permission to let. Borrowers with plenty of equity often increase the mortgage on the existing property to finance the deposit for the new purchase. Lenders assess affordability for the mortgage on the new main residence in the usual way, ignoring the buy-to-let mortgage provided the rental income covers it, which it must do to satisfy the lender. A good independent mortgage adviser will calculate the most efficient split between the size of the residential and buy-to-let mortgage. New rules being forced on the UK in March next year by the EU are likely to restrict let-to-buy mortgage options.

s it time for another holiday yet? The property industry is back in full swing and the festive break is now a dim and distant memory. Here at WhatHouse? Towers, our inboxes are bursting with press releases and news and it’s been quite a task distilling it down to what we’ve been able to in this edition. It’s certainly a time for looking forward, and, as a couple of this month’s features show, while it’s useful to look back and see what we can take from 2014 (good and bad), it’s much more useful to use last year’s experiences as a springboard for a better 2015. There have been a host of statistics from overseas property markets that suggest that they, too, have turned a corner. Various reliable indices and government figures seem to back up anecdotal evidence that interest – and more importantly, transactions – from overseas buyers is on the up in familiar territories such as France, Spain and Cyprus. This year, the radical changes to the way people can use their pension pots come into force (from 6 April). Since these changes were announced last year, there has been much speculation about how many new buy-to-let investors and holiday-home owners will be created as some people decide to use their pension funds to purchase property. It’s certainly a tempting thought for many of us, and at this time of year especially when the weather is often rotten at home. A strong pound is also fuelling interest in foreign shores, as the pound in your pocket will go further in the eurozone and elsewhere. As always, I suggest that before acting hastily you seek advice from a reputable expert before cashing in the funds you’ve been squirreling away all these years – it will be worth the time and expense in the long run. What might seem like a very simple decision is often made far more complicated when matters such as taxation and inheritance enter the fray – and doubly so when you might be considering a property in another country where different laws and regulations apply. Don’t stop your research though. And whatever your property dream is for 2015 – happy house-hunting!

Keith Keith Osborne, editor. ko@whathouse.com @keithosborne69

4 mortgages

Find your new home at Whathouse.com

Lenders accused of lacking common sense when it comes to ‘porting’ mortgages

anks and building societies have been accused of lacking common sense when borrowers approach them to move their mortgage to a new property (known as ‘porting’). Over recent months there have been reports of consumers being refused for a mortgage when they simply want to move their deal onto a new property without borrowing any additional funds. The financial regulator has been forced to step in to deal with rising complaints about the practice, which many believe is an attempt to preclude homeowners from keeping low rates.

LENDERS FAILING TO APPLY TRANSITIONAL RULES New mortgage rules which came into force in April made it tougher for borrowers to get a new mortgage. Lenders were required to implement

tougher affordability checks in order to ensure that consumers were able to afford loans both at the outset and in the future. At this time, the regulator put in place transitional arrangements in order that existing borrowers who didn’t meet the new tests were not disadvantaged. These rules allow lenders to approve changes to existing mortgages as long as the borrower does not want to borrow more or extend the term of the loan. However, evidence has emerged of widespread rejection by lenders in cases where borrowers want to move home and ‘port’ their loan. There have been reports of consumers having their mortgages declined even though they do not want to borrow any additional money or in cases where they want to downsize and move to a cheaper property. In cases where a lender declines a loan application borrowers may then have to pay a significant early

A chance to win £50 It couldn’t be simpler – just ‘follow’ us on Twitter (@What_House) One of our new followers from 27 January to 26 February 2015 will win £50 in Marks and Spencer vouchers.

repayment charge – often thousands of pounds – and apply through an alternative provider. Keith Osborne, editor of Whathouse?, says: “Many brokers believe that lenders are taking advantage of tough new rules in order to decline mortgages and move borrowers off low interest rates and interest-only deals. It is clear that the rules are not being applied consistently.” The Financial Conduct Authority has made it clear that it expects lenders to apply these transitional rules. Linda Woodall, director of mortgage and consumer lending at the regulator, said they had seen many examples of lenders applying strict tests needlessly. “Some borrowers are looking to downsize and so substantially reduce their monthly payments and have been told that the new payments are not affordable,” she said. “This is not common sense.”

RISE IN AGERELATED MORTGAGE COMPLAINTS The Financial Ombudsman Service has reported a rise in complaints about lenders who apply the tough new criteria and cite age as a reason not to port a loan. Many borrowers with existing mortgages that are scheduled to end in their late 60s or 70s are finding they no longer qualify because lenders have cut their maximum lending age. “Many lenders have introduced some tighter criteria for older borrowers and this is sometimes given as a reason for not porting a mortgage,” a spokesman for the FOS said. “Of the cases we’ve seen, we’ve generally suggested to the lender that if age alone is the reason they’ve rejected the request – and the customer’s circumstances haven’t changed – it doesn’t seem very fair to refuse the option to port their mortgage.”

Rupert Bates, editorial director of WhatHouse? has been a property journalist for 25 years. He is an award-winning writer who started on local newspapers before becoming a columnist on The Daily Telegraph. He presents the annual What House? Awards, edits leading housebuilding magazine Show House and is property correspondent of The Field magazine.

Managing director Daniel Hill Editorial director Rupert Bates

Keith Osborne started writing about property 12 years ago and has been editor of Whathouse. com since 2010. He is currently a columnist in housebuilding trade magazine Show House and has previously written for Homes Overseas magazine. He has also been a part of the What House? Awards judging panel for a number of years.

Sales director (new homes) Mark Edmondson me@whathouse.com

Stephen Maunder is assistant editor of Whathouse.com, having previously spent 18 months there as a freelance special correspondent. He has a background in academic research and has worked at Sky News as a picture researcher. He has also written for BBC News, Huffington Post UK and the Shropshire Star newspaper.

Account manager Ann Chaloner ac@whathouse.com

What House?

Editor Keith Osborne ko@whathouse.com Assistant editor Stephen Maunder sm@whathouse.com Chief sub-editor Suzanne Frost Designer Sarah Davies Contributors Marc Da Silva Nick Parkhouse Richenda Oldham

Head of Sales (London) Andy Lunn al@whathouse.com Sales manager Jay Ali ja@whathouse.com Business development manager Richard Woodruff rw@whathouse.com Business development manager Steve Coyle sc@whathouse.com

Head of digital Simon Phillips simon@whathouse.com Cover photo: Dollar Bay in Canary Wharf, London courtesy of Mount Anvil, www.dollarbay.co.uk Published by: Globespan Media Limited, 291-299 Borough High Street, London SE1 1JG T: 020 7940 1070 E: info@globespanmedia.com W: www.whathouse.com Printed by 39zero / Distributed by Royal Mail © 2015 Globespan Media Limited

@What_House

No part of this publication may be reproduced without prior written permission from the publishers. The greatest care has been taken to ensure accuracy but the publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors and omissions.

NHBC – the mark of a quality home

...Buying a new home is a big decision, so you’ll want to know that your property is of good quality and your investment well protected. Only builders approved and registered by NHBC can offer Buildmark, and they must build to the detailed technical standards we have been developing and updating for more than 75 years. It will give you peace of mind to know that all new homes with NHBC’s Buildmark have been independently inspected at key stages during construction, and come with 10 years’ warranty and insurance. This gives you the reassurance that, on the rare occasion when something does go wrong, we’re here to help you.

So, before you buy a new home, make sure it has Buildmark.

Talk to us...

Call us now on 0844 633 1000 and ask for ‘Customer Services’. Or visit www.nhbc.co.uk/myhome H391 08/14

H391 - What House? advert_Sept_FINAL.indd 1

8/14/14 9:38 AM

6 six appeal

Find your new home at Whathouse.com

Four Hundred Caledonian Road, Islington, London, N1 • From £400,000

Sustainable developer Igloo is launching the third and final phase of seven one- and twobedroom, low-energy homes at this scheme, which was the first in London to receive a full ‘Outstanding’ 12/12 against the governmentbacked Building for Life assessment criteria, which seeks to improve the quality of homes and amenity spaces in new developments. Launching on 29 January is the muchanticipated show home designed by Kelly Parfitt, owner of Birdy Design, who has incorporated locally sourced pieces, including bespoke furniture made on Brick Lane into her design. Situated on a lively stretch of the historic ‘Cally’ road, Four Hundred Caledonian Road comprises a total of 23 contemporary, low-energy apartments, a pair of townhouses and three commercial studios, centred around two intimate courtyards. The homes are only being marketed to owner-occupiers, in a bid to catalyse a vibrant new community where

people can set down roots and live and work. Each home has its own outdoor space, with large balconies and secure cycle storage for residents. Internal features include efficient underfloor heating, sustainably sourced bamboo flooring, integrated A-rated Bosch appliances in the kitchens, and high-quality quartz worktops. Green living roofs with photovoltaic panels help provide free energy for the scheme, while rainwater harvesting, mechanical heat recovery and ventilation, and a Combined Heat and Power (CHP) system result in low-energy homes with significantly reduced emissions and annual energy bills.

From: Currell/Savills/igloo Contact: 0 20 7226 6611 0207354 6705

Six appeal Our favourite city apartments around the country, on the market right now The Penthouse, Benbow House, Southwark, London, SE1 • £8.9million

Dollar Bay, Canary Wharf, London, E14 £POA

This is currently the largest penthouse in the central London SE1 postcode, an area that stretches along the south bank of the River Thames from Waterloo to beyond Tower Bridge. Gracing three floors and offering over 4,600 sq ft of accommodation, this luxurious property offers an open and exceptionally bright reception room, kitchen and formal dining area, family and entertainment areas, library, study, five spacious bedrooms and two private terraces. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows let in abundant light and take maximum advantage of the stunning views of London’s famous skyline and River Thames.

Dollar Bay is a stunning 31-storey ‘crystal’ tower, designed by the world-renowned Ian Simpson Architects and brought to life by developer Mount Anvil in a joint venture with Citystyle Homes (the private development arm of One Housing Group), with completion set for 2017. Located on the South Dock, and offering uninterrupted views of Canary Wharf, each of the 111 new homes – a mix of studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments – will enjoy water views and their own winter garden, offering year-round inside/outside space. Airy, open-plan interiors and floor-toceiling windows maximise the light and space afforded by the waterfront setting. Other luxury touches include a residents-only garden, gym, lounge and 24-hour concierge service.

The property also benefits from two private, secure, underground car parking spaces and, as you would expect for such a prestigious home, on-site 24-hour concierge. Location, as always, is a prime consideration. Benbow House is on Bankside, near the world-famous Shakespeare’s Globe theatre, Tate Modern and Borough Market. It’s also just 15 minutes on foot across the river into the City and along the South Bank is world-class theatre and arts in every form.

From: Pastor Real Estate Contact: 020 3195 9595

As many major institutions relocate from the city, the Isle of Dogs is emerging as London’s new financial heart. With its vast array of restaurants and bars, two malls offering over 200 designer and high street shops and a year-round programme of arts, music, and leisure events, the area is a place to live as well as work. South Quay station is just a five-minute walk away, connecting Dollar Bay to both Canary Wharf and the City of London. The new Crossrail station set to open in 2017 means Dollar Bay will be even better connected.

From: Mount Anvil Contact: 020 7205 2997

six appeal 7

Find your new home at Whathouse.com

The Junction, Stockwell, London, SW9 From £199,999

The Junction is phase four at The Park, a project creating 1,000 new build and refurbishment properties in this up-and-coming suburb. Buyers at this phase have the opportunity to buy an initial share from 50% to 75% of their new home. A 50% share of a one-bedroom apartment valued at £199,999 (full market value £399,999) can be bought with a 5% deposit of as little as £9,999. The apartments are set within two striking, contemporary buildings designed by acclaimed architects bptw partnership. The buildings sit around an inner central courtyard that features mature trees and communal seating. Internally, these apartments are bright and spacious and all of them benefit from private external space in which to relax, such as a patio, terrace or sunspace. The homes

come with underfloor heating and the kitchens are well equipped with integrated Neff and Zanussi appliances. Bathrooms are fitted with Villeroy and Boch sanitaryware, smart glass shower screens, heated towel rails and coordinated tiling to the floors and walls – so there’s absolutely no compromise on quality. Buyers who do not qualify for Shared Ownership also have the option to purchase some apartments at the open-market price. The Junction is a short distance from all the amenities of Brixton, including the tube and rail stations; Oxford Circus is only 12 minutes away on the Victoria Line. All homeowners at The Junction also enjoy a year’s free membership to a car club.

From: Network Living Contact: 0300 373 3000

Farm Lane, Fulham, London, SW6 From £107,000

More West, Latimer Road, London, W10 From £415,000 As well as attracting workers looking to put down roots in the capital, London continues to be a draw for property investors in the UK and all over the world. Outside of its ‘prime’ market, where prices can easily head north of £1million, many of the capital’s neighbourhoods are being regenerated with new homes and amenities. Peabody has been building social housing in London for some 150 years and has recently branched out to build homes for

the private market. Help to Buy is available on properties at More West. This collection of 28 one-, two- and three-bedroom private sale apartments (together with 39 shared ownership properties being released this year) offers the chance to get on the property ladder for somewhat less than seven figures. Each has a private balcony or terrace, a stylish, contemporary, high-gloss, handleless kitchen with integrated Bosch appliances and engineered oak flooring.

This development is in Zone 2, on the doorstep of Notting Hill and within walking distance of Portobello Road market and Westfield shopping centre. Latimer Road tube station is across the road from the development, allowing residents to be in central London in less than 15 minutes on the Hammersmith & City tube line.

From: Peabody/Hamptons International Contact: 020 7758 8431

Affinity Sutton is offering 18 apartments through Discounted Market Sale (DMS) at Farm Lane, providing an affordable way for eligible homebuyers to get on the property ladder in this ever-popular neighbourhood. DMS is a low-cost homeownership scheme which enables buyers to purchase a brand new home with a large discount off the full market value. No rent or interest will be charged, although a monthly servicing charge will be levied. Applicants will need a mortgage and/or savings to cover the discounted price of the property and they must also live or work in Hammersmith and Fulham. A maximum income threshold will apply, as the scheme is being aimed at those who genuinely cannot

afford an open-market property in this locality. Housed in a contemporary-style building these one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments are designed with the modern lifestyle in mind, with open-plan living areas and a private balcony in most properties. Fulham boasts an eclectic mix of shops, eateries bars and entertainment, which are all within close walking distance of Farm Lane. The development is just five minutes’ walk from Fulham Broadway station: London Victoria is a 14-minute journey away and the chic shopping district of Sloane Square is just 12 minutes’ away.

From: Affinity Sutton Contact: 0300 100 0303

AUCTION

Four Day Sale - 126 Lots 09 February - Kent, SE London & Essex 10 February - Sussex & Surrey 11 February - Hampshire & Isle of Wight 12 February - West Country

Sussex & Surrey Lots - Tuesday, 10 February at the The Hilton Brighton Metropole - commencing 11am

Garden flat for investment or occupation Guide: £60-65,000 epc:tbc

Detached cottage set in 6.5 acres Guide: £450,000-Plus

Freehold former nightclub Guide: £325-350,000 epc:e

ST LEONARDS

Guide: £280-300,000 epc:tbc+d+g

BRIGHTON

Mixed residential & commercial investment

SOUTH NUTFIELD

BEXHILL-ON-SEA

CROWBOROUGH

Guide: £270-280,000 epc:tbc

Pounsley Manor

Old Stable Cottage

50m

75m

Land with four fishing lakes Guide: £50-60,000 Hunters Ridge, Pounsley, Blackboys, Uckfield, East Sussex

Well presented second floor flat Guide: £70-75,000 epc:e

Crab Hill Lane N

Land with potential

Moats Lane

M23

Guide: £40-45,000 Hatch Lane

25m

50m

ANGMERING

Four storey building with sea views

BLACKBOYS

CHIDDINGLY

ST LEONARDS

A range of Sussex & Surrey Lots including:-

Former caretakers bungalow Guide: £200-220,000 epc:tbc

75m

Land on the south of Crab Hill Lane, South Nutfield, Redhill, Surrey

Guides are provided as an indication of each Seller’s minimum expectation. They are not necessarily figures which a property will sell for and may change at any time prior to Auction. Unless stated otherwise, each Lot will be offered subject to a reserve (a figure below which the Auctioneer cannot sell the Lot during the Auction). We expect the reserve will be set within the guide range or no more than 10% above a single figure guide. Please check our website regularly at cliveemson.co.uk, or call 01273 571853, in order to stay fully informed.

Catalogue Hotline LAND & PROPERTY AUCTIONEERS

View Lots and download catalogues via our website cliveemson.co.uk

(60p per minute at all times)

09068 517744 Follow us on:

auctions 9

Find your new home at Whathouse.com

Property auctions: Your guide to guide prices You often see a ‘guide price’ for a property for sale at auction, but what does it actually mean to you as a buyer? Marc Da Silva reports.

h en a twobedroom semidetached house in Nottingham in need of modernisation and improvement with gas central heating and uPVC double glazing was recently sold at an auction in Leeds for £62,500 – against an advertised guide of £40,000 – it set the tone for the rest of the sale. Among the other highlights of the auction was a traditional two-bedroom terraced property in Radford, an innercity area of Nottingham, which went under the hammer for £54,000 despite being guided at £37,000. Elsewhere, an interesting L-shaped piece of land with the potential for a small residential building plot was offered at a guide price of £5,000

but sold for £7,500, while a threebedroom end-of terrace property in Langley Mill, a small town in the Amber Valley district of Derbyshire, was sold for £62,500 against a guide price of £45,000. Some of the prices achieved at the auction were impressive, particularly the first five lots, which all went for almost 25% over their guide prices on the back of competitive bidding from buyers. But what these examples highlight is that the guide price in the auction catalogue will often be less than the property eventually sells for.

GENERATING GREATER INTEREST Low guide prices generally help to create what Graham Penny, auctioneer

at Graham Penny Auctions, describes as a “buzz in the room” which can often result in some “phenomenal prices achieved”. He adds: “We pride ourselves on our accurate guide pricing and local property knowledge and so it’s very satisfying to get great results such as these.” What he really means by “accurate guide pricing” is that while guide prices are there to act as a signal of the price that the property is expected to sell for, you will often find that the guide price of auction properties is set relatively low in an effort to generate interest among bidders. This in turn should lead to healthy competition and a real intent to buy for the majority of lots, driving up the sale price

in the process, so have in your mind what you think the true market value of the property is, and bid accordingly.

BUDGET APPROPRIATELY To avoid paying too much for a property at auction, it is crucial that you do not get carried away with the “buzz” in the auction room. Guide prices are ultimately for information only and should not be relied on as an indication of the lowest price that the vendor will accept, otherwise known as the reserve price. Buyers are deemed to have obtained independent, professional advice of others and relied on their own knowledge, which includes possessing

an understanding of a property’s true value, and for that it is necessary to undertake all necessary due diligence, which comprises analysing what other comparable homes in the local area recently sold for.

MAXIMUM BID Finally, always set a ‘maximum bid’. You will be competing with other purchasers on the auction day, which could mean encountering somebody determined to acquire the lot that you are interested in at any price. But it is important to set a budget and stick to it. Find out more about property auctions at www.whathouse.com/ property-auctions

★★★★★

From a five star builder

OOM HOME 4 BEDR – FR OM

4 bedroom homes from

£ 424,995! at time of print

in partnership with

Off Greenway Lane, Budleigh Salterton, Devon EX9 6SL Open Thursday to Monday, 10am – 5pm For more information: 01395 444434 horizon@cavannahomes.co.uk

www.cavannahomes.co.uk

£4

TH E

– OK RO B RS KE

9 ,9

3 & 4 bedroom new homes Greenway Lane EX9 6SL

Available on this site

BuckwheaT PLOT 31 £385,000

The OaTgraSS PLOT 10 £420,000 The OaTgraSS PLOT 9

£430,000 The lavender PLOT 35 £450,000 The rye PLOT 11 £410,000

reserve now and move in this Spring at The ashmiles Beautiful 3 bedroom homes available now with Help to Buy* from £385,000

Help to Buy

The Ashmiles at Barns Green is an exclusive collection of sixty-nine 2, 3, 4 & 5 bedroom luxury new homes, set in a beautiful village location but still near to all of the excellent amenities and transport links West Sussex has to offer. Berkeley are delighted to offer five stylish 3 bedroom homes, ready to move into this spring. Whether you’re looking for modern and flexible space perfect for entertaining, or a slightly more traditional set-up, these spacious homes with stunning kitchens, classic bay windows and en-suite to your master ensure you’ll find the perfect fit at The Ashmiles. To experience the Berkeley difference for yourself call 01403 336 062 to arrange your private viewing or simply visit our stunning Showhome. www.theashmiles.co.uk Marketing Suite & Showhome open daily 10am – 5pm Two Mile Ash Road, Barns Green, West Sussex RH13 0PX

Proud to be a member of the Berkeley Group of companies

The new Help to Buy* scheme can make it so much easier to secure the home of your choice at Bersted Park you need a minimum deposit of 5%, a Homes and Communities Agency equity loan of 20% and a mortgage of 75%*. If you qualify, you can use the scheme to buy your first home or move to a new home up to the value of £600,000. Prices correct at time of going to press and subject to availability. Computer Generated Image of The Ashmiles is indicative only.

The Roseland – A stunning 3 bedroom home A traditionally styled home offering spacious open plan living and dining area with separate kitchen. A luxurious master bedroom with ensuite completes this perfect fit for you and your family. Highwood offers an unrivalled collection of beautiful 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5 new homes created exclusively for you, set just a short walk from all of the amenities available in Horsham. With its tree lined avenues, riverside walks and exceptionally designed interiors, it offers you a way to enjoy modern country living alongside the tradition, community and craftsmanship of a bygone era. Our stunning Showhome is available to view at this sought-after location.

To find out more or book your personal appointment speak to one of our dedicated Sales Team on 01403 334334 Sales Suite open daily 10am - 5pm Highwood, Hills Farm Lane, Horsham, West Sussex RH12 1EP

www.highwoodhorsham.co.uk

Designed for life

Proud to be a member of the Berkeley Group of companies

Plot 100 mid terrace £355,000 Plot 102 end of terrace £355,000 Plot 107 end of terrace £345,000

The new Help to Buy* scheme can make it so much easier to secure the home of your choice at Highwood Horsham you need a minimum deposit of 5%, a Homes and Communities Agency equity loan of 20% and a mortgage of 75%*. If you qualify, you can use the scheme to buy your first home or move to a new home up to the value of £600,000. Prices correct at time of going to press and subject to availability. Photography depicts typical street scene and interiors at Highwood and are indicative only. Computer Generated Image of The Roseland is indicative only.

Help to Buy

112 Western Road, Brighton BN1 2AB 01273 771111 phillipsandstill.co.uk westernrd@phillipsandstill.co.uk

SELL YOUR PROPERTY WITH US & PAY JUST

£99

+ VAT

*Terms and conditions apply

NEW INSTRUCTION

SILWOOD PLACE, BRIGHTON £225,000 - £235,000

EATON ROAD, HOVE

• Delightful Fifth Floor One Bedroom Flat • Balcony & Allocated Parking Space • Gorgeous Views & Share Of Freehold • City Centre Location • Sale By Tender

• Sixth Floor One Bedroomed Purpose Built Flat • Distant Sea Views & Views Over Cricket Ground • Close To Hove Station & Town Centre • Communal Roof Terrace & Laundry Room • No Ongoing Chain

NEW INSTRUCTION

DYKE ROAD DRIVE, HOVE

£250,000

• Superb Newly Refurbished First & Second Floor Maisonette • Two Bedrooms • Bathroom & En Suite Shower Room • Share Of Freehold • No Ongoing Chain

£235,000 - £250,000

NEW INSTRUCTION

WESTERN STREET, BRIGHTON £425,000 - £450,000 • Stunning Refurbished Three Bedroomed Town House • Superb Roof Terrace With Views • Bathroom & En Suite Shower Room • Highly Sought After City Centre Position • No Ongoing Chain

NEW INSTRUCTION

FURZE HILL, HOVE

£325,000

• Highly Sought After Second Floor Two Bedroomed Apartment • Fabulous Views & Balcony • Popular Location Opposite St Ann’s Wells Gardens • Communal Parking & Gardens • Long Lease

NEW INSTRUCTION

STAPLEFIELD DRIVE, BRIGHTON • Three Bedroomed Semi Detached House • Excellent Size Lounge • Kitchen / Diner • Substantial Loft Area • Front & Rear Gardens

£260,000

2015 predictions 13

Find your new home at Whathouse.com

The property market in 2015 ? 2015201520152015

We ask industry experts for their thoughts on how the property market will change in the coming year “We anticipate that property prices will increase around 3.55% nationally in 2015 and 5-7% in London, but we won’t see the meteoric growth witnessed in the first half of 2014. Stamp duty reform has boosted market activity at the start of this year, with 98% of homebuyers benefiting by paying up to £4,500 less to the chancellor. This has no doubt given a

boost to the market, which may have flatlined in the run up to the election. “With continued low interest rates and higher loan-to-values more common place, the first quarter of 2015 is set to be the season of the first-time buyer who may also continue to benefit from Help to Buy if it is retained post-election.” Paul Smith, CEO at spicerhaart estate agents

“The political ambition to meet the UK’s housing deficit of 240,000 means that debates around planning, development and delivery will monopolise the pre-election period in the run up to May. We’ve seen four housing ministers in this

parliament and there is no reason to think that housing won’t continue to be a political football in the next. What we need is certainty, clarity and confidence from government to keep us building homes.”

“Stress testing of borrowers’ ability to service a mortgage and loan-tovalue lending caps will increasingly limit the amount buyers can borrow, making it more difficult to access or trade up within the market.

“Not only will this suppress price rises, particularly in London, it will also reduce the potential for transaction volumes to return to anything close to a pre-crunch norm”

Jeremy Blackburn, RICS head of UK policy

Lucian Cook, head of residential research at Savills

“The growth of the rental market as a form of tenure will continue. The advent of large-scale investment in build-to-rent could start to lift the quality of rental accommodation, especially in city centre markets. “This rising appetite for property comes against the continuing shortage of new housing stock in

the UK, putting strong upward pressure on prices in some areas. Construction activity has picked up markedly over the last year, but we still see a large shortfall in the delivery of new homes in the coming years.”

“It is always difficult to predict the market going forward, but I believe there is much to look forward to now with stamp duty being made incremental rather than stepped. “For those wanting to move in the first half of 2015, it would be a good idea to put their property on the market early in the new year to take advantage of favourable conditions before election uncertainty has any

real impact. “Overall, I see 2015 being a strong year for house sales as confidence in the economy increases, interest rates stay low and a greater supply of property comes to the marketplace. I believe activity levels will be the reverse to 2014, and will therefore increase steadily throughout the year.”

“If the status quo is maintained politically it will be the responsibility of the Bank of England to steady the ship post-election, with interest rises that aren’t too aggressive yet, equally, not too weak. Hatched expects interest rates to rise, which will, along with the general election, be a contributor to the slow-down for the housing

market in the final half of the year. For many homeowners, this correction will be barely noticeable over such an extended period of time and certainly not when compared to 2008, when house prices were falling at 2% per month in some places in the UK.”

“The rental market will be where much of the action takes place in 2015. Those relocating to the capital for work are now biding their time before purchasing their own portion of London property. This will push demand in the corporate lettings sector even further, and the biggest rental increases are predicted to be among one- or two-bedroom flats. “Supply of rental properties

looks set to be sustained, but any regulatory changes to tenancy fees under a new government could inflate rents artificially. The powers that be need to ensure that landlords are not spooked out of the market by unnecessary layers of legislation, and that aspiring property investors don’t take their money elsewhere.”

“With agents predicting the housing shortage will potentially worsen in 2015, the general election will be a pivotal event for the market next year, with all three main parties pledging to build more homes should they be elected. “We have already seen policies put in place in an attempt to tackle the problem, with the announcement of new garden city developments and the reforms to stamp duty – another change our

members believe will influence the market next year. While we do see these changes as a step in the right direction, they are still not enough. The lack of capacity within the market means that the gap between supply and demand probably won’t close for some time. We currently don’t have the resources to respond to the problem, and this is another issue that needs addressing.”

Gráinne Gilmore, head of UK residential research at Knight Frank

John Frost, managing director of The Frost Partnership

Adam Day, managing director of leading low-cost estate agent Hatched.co.uk

Peter Rollings, chief executive of Marsh & Parsons

Mark Hayward, managing director of the National Association of Estate Agents

“We are also forecasting an increase in enquires from our investors who are thinking ahead to retirement. We expect to see a substantial increase in investment in buy-to-let property from the over-55s in light of the changes to pension annuities due to come into force in April. We predict that our investors will continue to be looking to purchase new build city centre apartments that appeal to young professionals. First-time investors in particular will be attracted to these due to their low maintenance and high rental demand.” Graham Davidson, managing director of Sequre Property Investment “Already off to a good start, we expect to continue to see a strong market in 2015. Demand remains strong and with growing employment, falling inflation and interest rates at current levels, more and more people are going to be able to buy a new home, whether getting onto or moving up the ladder. “The benefits of buying a new home in terms of the design quality, energy efficiency, warranties and customer service are becoming more and more apparent to purchasers, meaning interest in buying a brand new home continues to go from strength to strength.” Gary Ennis, South regional managing director for Barratt Developments

“From a price perspective, 2015 will be new territory for predictions. Since last summer, we have entered a new era of mortgage restrictions, as stronger powers are given to the Bank of England to curb lending. Talk of this and the end of buyers’ ‘pent up demand’ from the recession has meant price rises and recovery have slowed. “With pressure on companies to increase wages, potential interest rate rises and landlords realising their income is being eroded if they don’t increase rents annually, rents are likely to be static or increase by up to 3% in 2015.”

Dorian Gonsalves, director of commercial and franchising at Belvoir

WARRI NER PLACE_SW11 4 XW

FINA L T WO HOME S NOW R E M A INING 05

MINS TO

BATTERSEA PARK

MINS TO

KINGS ROAD

MINS TO

OXFORD CIRCUS

MINS TO

CANARY WHARF

WARRINER PLACE_SW11 4XW

MINS walk TO

BATTERSEA PARK STATION

MINS TO

SLOAN SQUARE

T H E T O W N H O U SE COL L E C T I O N ST U NNING 4 & 5 B E D R O O M TOWN HO U S E S AT WA R R I N E R P L AC E PRICES FROM £1,999,950 TO £2,5 95,000

MINS TO

SOUTHBANK (WATERLOO)

MINS TO

LEICESTER SQUARE

FIND OUT MORE ONLINE SHANLYHOMES.COM

020 7228 8686 Photography of Warriner Place. Travel times approximate only. Prices correct at time of press.

this, our second WhatHouse? n Awards supplement since the Gala Luncheon event in November last year, we continue to look at some of the winning projects, this time with the emphasis on their geographical diversity and what the plans are for the winning companies in the coming year. While it is true to say that the most vibrant region for the property industry remains London and the South East of England, you can see from the full list of winners (www.whathouse.com/whathouse-awards-2014) that the best new homes in Britain come from all over the country. The same exacting criteria are applied by the judges no matter where the development is based, as of course are the expectations of ordinary

homebuyers up and down the country. From starter homes to luxury homes, and rural settings to city centre locations, the WhatHouse? Awards really are a national barometer charting the rising standards of excellence achieved by our nation’s housebuilders. We’ve also spoken to many of the winners of our Housebuilder of the Year categories (Small, Medium, Large and Sustainable) to see what projects they will be working on. The knowledge that the homes they are looking at come from an awardwinning housebuilder will instil confidence in many house-hunters looking for a new-build property. Read on to find out more about this year’s Award winners.

Britain’s best new homes

Best Exterior Design (Silver), Kingston Riverside, Kingston-upon-Thames from Redrow London

INLAND HOMES BUILDING SUPERB NEW HOMES THROUGHOUT THE SOUTH EAST

Vista, Drayton Garden Village

St John’s, Chelmsford

Queensgate, Farnborough

Inland Homes are currently regenerating areas across the South East providing quality homes with an emphasis on design and sustainability. Visit our fabulous Showhomes and discover more about our range of new homes.

Carter’s Quay, Poole

Abbeywood Park, Markyate

Carter’s Quay, Poole

Queensgate, Farnborough

1 & 2 bedroom apartments and 2, 3 & 4 bedroom houses

1 & 2 bedroom apartments and 3 & 4 bedroom houses

Vista, Drayton Garden Village,

COMING SOON:

West Drayton

Queens Road, High Wycombe 1 & 2 bedroom apartments and 3 bedroom houses

2, 3 & 4 bedroom houses St John’s, Chelmsford

2, 3 & 4 bedroom houses Abbeywood Park, Markyate

1 & 2 bedroom apartments and 2, 3, 4 & 5 bedroom houses

Charterhouse Mews, Chelmsford 1 & 2 bedroom apartments and 2 bedroom houses The Comptons, Wooburn Green 1 & 2 bedroom apartments and 3 bedroom houses

Call 01494 762 450 or email sales@inlandhomes.co.uk for details Showhome open at this development

Please check website for current availability

www.inlandhomes.co.uk

award winners 17

Find your new home at Whathouse.com

Small is beautiful They may only build a handful of homes a year, but David and Laura Rich-Jones can match the big developers for success judges and members of the public who voted for Pembroke (pictured). As we only build a few homes every year, we were delighted to gain recognition alongside some of the industry’s largest developers, and it shows how smaller firms must not be overlooked! It was an honour to receive the WhatHouse? Award – it is a prestigious event and the trophy is on display for all to see.

Your company Richstone Properties has won a number of Awards for The Pembroke. Will your WhatHouse? Award for Best Landscape Design take pride of place on your mantelpiece? Laura: It has been a fantastic year for us, and we are grateful to all the

Can you tell us a little about your company’s history and team? David: Laura and I founded Richstone Properties over 20 years ago, after seeing demand in the market for exclusively designed luxury homes. We ensure that all our projects are built using high-quality materials and with acute attention to detail, for a truly bespoke finish. Our team has been gradually expanding to match the growth of the business, and we are now developing the Richstone Collection, a selection of luxury rental properties overseas. What’s Richstone Properties’ USP? Laura: Each Richstone property is individually designed to blend

seamlessly with its surroundings, combining clever design and construction techniques with the use of sustainable materials and state-ofthe-art technology. David and I like to be personally involved with every development and by keeping the majority of our functions in-house, we are able to deliver on quality over quantity, a concept which is perhaps fading in the industry today. Pembroke was a bit of a departure in some ways from your usual projects, what special considerations did it require? David: There is a huge demand for spacious family homes in this part of Richmond, which we have been successfully supplying over the last decade. This time, we took on a challenging site, sandwiched in between two residential roads. Our challenge was to create light-filled, contemporary homes which maximized on space but did not infringe on the neighbours’ privacy. The skills of our architectural and design team more than delivered, and we believe Pembroke has transformed a once

neglected wasteland plot into a highly regarded residential development. Do you think awards help you to sell homes and provide a benefit when it comes to working on new projects? Laura: They are both a reassurance and an incentive – awards remind you that you’re doing something right, but they also drive you to both maintain and raise standards for future projects. In terms of helping to sell homes, it certainly raises the profile of the development, and Richstone Properties as a brand, but ultimately the buyer has to see a home they want to live in.

Will your future projects include a few more larger schemes such as The Pembroke or do you prefer to concentrate on individual homes? What’s in your pipeline? David: We have a few ongoing individual home projects in Richmond, and are also currently expanding the Richstone Collection on the luxurious Anahita Resort in Mauritius. We have not built anything new in Roehampton for 10 years, but the team are now delighted to have returned to the area, taking on the exciting challenge of the renovation of Templeton, which will eventually become our new family home.

To find out more, visit richstone.co.uk; 020 8878 5333

18 award winners

Find your new home at Whathouse.com

The best new homes T he WhatHouse? Awards really are a national affair. Every year, newhomes developments and housebuilders from across our nation are honoured by the expert panel of judges in 21 categories for their exceptional quality in design and construction. Here, we take a look at the geographical spread of just a baker’s dozen of the winners of the 2014 Awards. See the full list of winners here www.whathouse.com/what-house-awards-2014

1. Timperley, Cheshire Best House Bronze, Altin Homes, Sylvan Point The WhatHouse? judges say: “Altin Homes appointed Reid Architects, which has successfully designed a very crisply detailed, innovative family home. The elevations are simple and unfussy with red brick under slate roofs. “The interiors are modern and flexible and so will very easily accommodate the changing needs of the occupiers. There are a few refinements that are being incorporated into the later houses and these improvements will enhance an already excellent product.”

2. Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands Best Retirement Development Bronze, Churchill Retirement Living, Steeple Lodge The WhatHouse? judges say: “Churchill Retirement Living continues to deliver at a very affordable price, with dynamism, awareness and vision. The company knows what it is doing in this sector, but is continually researching, evolving its products and services to meet the changing and diverse needs of its customers. “Facilities at Steeple Lodge include an open-plan reception area manned by the lodge manager, an owners’ lounge with a library area and a wellbeing suite for hairdressing and beauty treatments. There is also a fully furnished guest suite for visiting friends and family to stay in.”

3. Bath, Somerset Best Landscape Design Gold, Crest Nicholson, Bath Riverside The WhatHouse? judges say: “Around 300 homes have been completed; eventually the site will also feature two parks, as well as health and cultural facilities, all set within 44 acres of landscaped grounds. “[We] were impressed by the fluidity of the master plan, and how it connects existing footpaths, footbridges and vehicle crossings, seamlessly linking them with the riverside walkways, parks and squares permeating the site. [We] were impressed by the scale and simplicity of the design that has created a calm and tranquil setting.”

4. Dalmarnock, Glasgow Best House Bronze, City Legacy Consortium, The Athletes’Village The WhatHouse? judges say: “The ‘Hibiscus’ is a flexible, modern take on the endof-terrace house, a key part of the Athletes’ Village development designed by RMJM for City Legacy. This house was cleverly designed to be easily converted into a comfortable, contemporary and, most importantly, very affordable family home packed with energy-efficient features. “This four-bedroom property is arranged over three floors with wonderful full-height eaves spaces on the top floor. The gable end is a prominent feature of the design, of which there are several variations. The building is well detailed.”

5. Pontyclun, Rhondda Cynon Taf Best Starter Home Scheme Silver, Lovell, Bryn Celyn The WhatHouse? judges say: “Bryn Celyn is a great example of what Lovell has consistently done well for many years – providing high-quality homes for local communities at a competitive price. It was completely sold out prior to the judges’ visit. “The mix of singles, couples and young families, together with the older residents here, has already created a friendly and neighbourly community. A landscaped play area and wild-flower grassland have added new features that the whole village can enjoy.”

6. Kindsway, Derby Best Mixed Use Development Bronze, Kier Partnership Homes, Manor Kingsway The WhatHouse? Judges say: “The Parade is the first phase of a nine-phase development that Kier is building on a former hospital site. “The individual house types are well planned, with the three-storey houses particularly distinguished by a master suite that extends over the whole of the top floor. For a house selling at below £250,000, the space standards and quality of finish are extraordinary. This is a development that contributes massively to the town and will merit further visits, and likely awards, as it progresses.”

award winners 19

Find your new home at Whathouse.com

in Britain in 2014 7. Leith, Edinburgh Best Brownfield Development Gold, CALA Homes, Albert Dock

11. Peterborough, Cambridgeshire Best Sustainable Development Bronze, Morris Homes, Vista

The WhatHouse? judges say: “This terrace has excellent views across the working dock, but the planning masterstroke lies in the treatment of the “street” formed between the two parallel terraces where extensive balconies not only define and punctuate the streetscape and create useful carports, but provide piano nobile outdoor living space. “The individual houses are imaginatively planned and this is a fine response to what was a very difficult brownfield site.”

The WhatHouse? judges say: “The 295 homes at Vista are more advanced than any that Morris Homes has previously built and are being delivered in partnership with the Homes and Community Agency, Peterborough City Council and Cross Keys Homes housing association. “With its selection of two-, three- and four-bedroom homes, from apartments to detached properties, Vista’s master plan was designed to include urban, rural and suburban character areas to reflect the diverse communities within Peterborough.”

8. Alnwick, Northumberland Best Small Housebuilder Gold, Stone Homes The WhatHouse? judges say: “It has been quite a journey for the husband and wife team behind Stone Homes, Dale and Jo Robinson. It was the conversion of their own traditional Northumberland farmstead into a luxury home that fuelled the desire to turn their obvious eye for detail and design into a business. “The result is a series of charming, well-conceived and architecturally pure creations across Northumberland. These are new country houses of outstanding quality, sympathetic to their environments, but adding style and boldness to the vernacular.”

9. Cholsey, Oxfordshire Best Renovation Silver, Thomas Homes, Fair Mile at Cholsey Meadows The WhatHouse? judges say: “Large sites such as this are often challenging and involve careful consideration of aesthetic, conservation and practical requirements. Thomas Homes has managed

1 6 12

11 9

3 13

this with aplomb. “Internally, features including Victorian panelling, high skirting boards and windows seats have been preserved and meticulously repaired; sash windows have been upgraded. The renovation of the Great Hall, complete with stage and full lighting system, is exemplary.”mprovements will enhance an already excellent product.”

10. Harrow, London Best Landscape Design Gold, St Edward, Stanmore Place The WhatHouse? judges say: “The mixed-use development of high-specification homes and contemporary office space combining private housing, socially rented and shared ownership accommodation is nearing completion. “The nearby Edgware Brook runs close to the scheme and the potential flood risk it presented provided an opportunity to create a lake and feature decking, together with marginal and aquatic plants and swales. [We] were again impressed by the quality of design and materials used and how these were carefully detailed and constructed on site.”

12. Bourne, Lincolnshire Best Retirement Development Silver, Larkfleet Homes and Keystone Developments, The Croft The WhatHouse? judges say: “At the centre of the development is an Edwardian manor house, which now has a residents’ lounge, garden room and kitchen. The new build doffs its architectural cap to the manor house with gabled frontages, while old stone walls at the entrance to the site have been retained. “It is the warmth of the development’s whole streetscape and use of enclosed spaces that strikes you most. There are obvious but thoughtful touches, such as raised beds in the gardens to make it easier for residents to tend the flowers and vegetables.”

13. Milford-on-Sea, Hampshire Best Exterior Design Bronze, Antler Homes, Fairwater The WhatHouse? judges say: “The external balcony relates the outside to the interior, while the setback breaks the roofline and creates a modelling of the facade. Further layering is created by a ground-floor projection, which incorporates a deeply recessed porch.” “The whole elevation is carefully considered and satisfying, presenting a seaside character of through-colour white render with powder-coated aluminium windows and grey-green composite cladding panels in the recessed balconies, which have clear glazed frameless fronts to match the crisp and thoughtful detailing that informs these very attractive exteriors.”

Find your new home at Whathouse.com

What’s next?

Britain’s best housebuilders, all winners of a WhatHouse? Award in 2014, tell us what their plans are for the coming year Jo Robinson, director: “Stone Homes’ aspirations for 2015 are to continue to build on its success in 2014, expanding into markets further afield. With a build style that would fit in perfectly with the landscapes of Harrogate, Surrey and surrounding areas we are keen to work on our own developments and look to collaborate with established bespoke housebuilders. Just as importantly, Stone Homes Interiors have the same goals, and all while retaining our current market share in the North East.”

Stone Homes

(Best Small Housebuilder, Gold) David Smith, group head of marketing: “We are sweeping into 2015 with more high-quality homes for the luxury sector, returning to prime location favourites such as Wimbledon Village and Highgate Village in London and Sunningdale in Berkshire. But we are also extending the boundaries a bit to accommodate growing families currently living in London, seeking more house and garden space for their money. We have some super-sized country houses underway in Picketts Hill, Hampshire (pictured) and Essendon, Hertfordshire, both surrounded by pleasant countryside, but close to first-class schools, and within a reasonable commute of the capital.”

Octagon

(Best Small Housebuilder, Bronze)

London Square

Adam Lawrence, chief executive: “Among the current projects is a £130m residential square in Fulham, 113 cutting-edge apartments in Putney and a traditional square of apartments and houses in the heart of affluent Teddington – all of which are underpinned by strong forward sales. Exciting new developments in the pipeline include the restoration and conversion of the historic Grade II listed The Star and Garter on Richmond Hill, 243 apartments on a two-acre site in Streatham Hill and the sensitive conversion of a Grade II listed building and grounds in Hayes, Bromley, into apartments and townhouses – making for an exciting year ahead.”

(Best Small Housebuilder, Bronze)

Mar City Homes

(Best Medium Housebuilder, Silver)

Tony Ryan, chief executive: “Mar City had a transformational and multi-award-winning year in 2014. Unveiling and raising the bar with our ground-breaking modular construction methods for residential properties, we launched our first modular developments – Green Point in Colindale and Regent’s Wharf in Walsall – gaining notable support and recognition from housing minister Brandon Lewis and many top political bodies. 2015 will be used to further cement Mar City’s credentials as a leading UK housebuilder, specialising in modular methods of construction as well as high-specification luxury properties throughout the UK. With a pipeline of circa 5,000 new homes planned across the country, the plans for growth remain ambitious with the aim to develop houses for every taste.”

award winners 21 Linden Homes

(Sustainable Developer of the Year, Gold) Mike Coker, managing director Linden Homes Midlands: “We are entering what we anticipate to be another exciting, productive and successful year on the back of a terrific previous 12 months. The region is continuing to expand, with work poised to start on a number of new developments in early 2015, and more land purchasing opportunities in the pipeline. This will be in areas where we already have an association as well as ‘new territory’. Our focus is on offering continued choice to customers in terms of location and designs, and not only to meet, but to exceed their expectations.”

Mount Anvil

(Best Medium Housebuilder, Bronze) Killian Hurley, chief executive: “The London market is one of the most exciting places to be and Mount Anvil is right at its heart. We have more homes coming at Queen’s Wharf – our riverside development in Hammersmith; at The Landau – our boutique scheme in Fulham; and at Dollar Bay – our stunning 31-storey glass tower overlooking Canary Wharf. We’ll also be launching our new development at Keybridge House, Vauxhall, offering more than 400 homes in the UK’s tallest residential brick tower. With other prospects also in the pipeline, we’re excited about 2015 and the opportunity to continue creating homes that add to London’s worldclass reputation.”

Redrow Homes

(Best Large Housebuilder, Gold) Dave Bexon, group sales and marketing director: “We’re planning significant growth in 2015, largely through a combination of increasing the number of Heritage Collection developments and rolling out our new Abode range. We’re also expanding our online services available to customers through ‘My Redrow’, which is a unique offering among our competitors. For the success of the wider housebuilding sector, we hope the economy continues to strengthen and the next government will address some major issues, namely speeding up planning, helping first-time buyers and continuing to back Help to Buy. In addition, our collective aim as an industry must be to address the skills shortage and attract more talented people into a construction career.”

City & Country

(Housebuilder of the Year)

Weston Homes

(Best Medium Housebuilder, Bronze)

Bob Weston, CEO: “2015 is set to be an exciting year for Weston Homes. We have 10 new developments launching, which will provide around 600 new homes in desirable commuter locations including Kent, Sussex, Essex and Cambridge. We are proud to have also just secured two new sites in Dartford and Greenwich, which will provide a further 700 new homes in 2016, which will contribute to the company’s growth strategy goals for the next 12 months. Our new homes range from spacious apartments to starter homes and family houses, many of which have Help to Buy available and will provide high-quality housing to those looking to get onto the property ladder.”

Helen Moore, managing director: “Our pipeline has rapidly grown and 2015 is already looking like an incredibly exciting year. King Edward VII Estate (to date the most significant development to have gained planning permission within the South Downs National Park), will launch in March; we will have our first legal completions at The General in Bristol; and work is progressing on our new site, Angel’s Courtyard in Colchester town centre, which is due to launch later this year. Recent acquisitions include the iconic Donaldson’s College in Edinburgh, Bramshill House in Hampshire, Sundridge Park Manor in Bromley, Kent and a portfolio of four listed prisons from the Ministry of Justice, being HMP Gloucester, HMP Dorchester, HMP Kingston (Portsmouth) and HMP Shepton Mallet – all of whichwill create some very special and desirable homes in the future.”

CB THE CROFT AT

BASTON

D E SIG N E D E X C L U SIV E LY F O R T H E O V E R 55 S

Homes from £149,995 with a choice of purchase options including Part Exchange

A wArd winning Homes built exclusively for tHe over

ake your life your own at The Croft at Baston, a stylish development surrounded by beautiful grounds, with a variety of facilities and services close by to suit every lifestyle.

The development consists of 49, one and two bedroom bungalows, as well as three bedroom chalet bungalows for those who want a little extra space.

The Croft at Baston is not just a place to live but a community of like-minded neighbours who enjoy a lifestyle full of possibilities.

The properties by What House? ‘Best Retirement Development’ Winner Larkfleet Homes are located around attractive walkways and gardens, creating a pleasant community environment.

The Croft at Baston, Mayfield Gardens, Baston, Lincolnshire PE6 9QW

www.larkfleethomes.co.uk email baston@larkfleethomes.co.uk

...better, because we care We care about quality

We care about customers

We care about your energy bills

All the homes have been designed to need minimal ongoing maintenance so homeowners can benefit from the independence and security of property ownership without the day-to-day concerns of property upkeep.

A community club house is also on site where residents can enjoy from £149,995 taking part in their own 1 bedroom bungalows hobby, activity groups 2 bedroom bungalows from £179,995 and regular communal 3 bedroom chalet bungalows from £249,995 events.

A new development, built exclusively for the over 55s. Call 07825 275820 for more information.

We care about the environment

We care about the community

55 s What’s more, Larkfleet offers a range of buyer services, to make your move to Baston easy and trouble-free.

Award winning developer

Sales office and showhome open daily 10am – 5pm

property investment 23

Find your new home at Whathouse.com

How to be an overnight property success Finance expert Lawrence Watts asks whether building up a property investment portfolio really is an easy way to make money

s in most new businesses, desire trumps need. Setting up a property portfolio from scratch can take years and, as in most businesses, the secret of success is, perhaps, not so secret after all. What follows is a road map of how one client built a portfolio (although I have changed some details to protect the innocent!). So, in the first instance, Billy (let’s call him that, mainly because that’s his name!) bought his first property in 1983 in cash (earned from street trading), in a Home Counties town. Within four years, property prices had increased by 63% (1983-87) and he sold it and bought a new main residence and two buy-to-lets. He then moved out of the main residence and rented a tiny flat for himself, his then partner and their daughter. He let the main property out as bedsits. A tough call, but it suited the market at that time. You will recall that, between 1989 and 1993, property prices fell off a cliff and interest rates shot up, but by 1996, prices were recovering. Billy then re-mortgaged all three properties and bought two more. In 1998, he married and his wife sold her house. With the proceeds, they bought three more properties. His brother then joined the party and they bought a further three properties (all on a shared basis). His wife managed the redecoration and maintenance of the properties. Between 1998 and 2001, property prices rose by some 50% and he remortgaged the whole portfolio (well, in fact, I did) and bought another five properties and we repeated the operation in 2006 (by then, property prices were up by 70%, approximately). His property portfolio was 21 homes. The yield at that time was circa 7.5%, but interest rates were 6.5% on average. Right now, interest rates are at an all-time low – profits are flattered and frankly exceptional. Capital appreciation is back. Some points you should know: • Billy managed all the properties himself and saved, say, 10% per annum in agent charges. Up until very recently, he undertook all

maintenance work himself. • He worked full-time as a healthcare worker – this is a “switched-on” guy with ambition and guts (and a vision). • He invested every penny of profits back into his properties. • After 1997 (when I got involved), he only rented to professionals. • Up until 2008, when interest rates fell, he made very little income from the portfolio. In other words, on a £5.25m portfolio, with £3m in mortgages, with rents of £189,000 and interest of £150,000 (at 5%), gross profit was £49,000 but, over the 22 years, capital appreciation is say £2m. The portfolio is now worth £6m. • For the record, one of the properties he bought in 2007 is still below the purchase price now. • In the first 25 years, he rarely could afford to go on holiday. Remember, unless you sell to release capital, the margin between income and mortgage interest costs is not necessarily that high. • He is also resilient and tough. He did use solicitors as and when tenants couldn’t (or wouldn’t) pay. He could and would face up to difficult tenants. He also maintained his properties to high standards. I guess he married well! • He also bought in the best streets, in the best part of town. It may reduce initial yield, but it maintains yield (better tenants) and, in the long run, produces higher capital appreciation. I also believe that, once the ‘London effect’ is over and investors look further afield, his part of suburbia will do very well. I mention this, because I think that is where growth will happen next. The key point of this story is that Billy managed his outgoings by using his job to pay for day-to-day living costs and reinvested his rents to improve the fabric of his business (literally). In fact, he invested and was willing to be patient before reaping the benefits of his investments. My view on his portfolio is that it’s time to move on. IHT (inheritance tax) alone would be circa £1m and at age 63, there needs to be an end game.

In other words, sell. So, what can we take from Billy’s experience: • Investing in property is a business. Do your research as to where best yields can be obtained and best possible capital growth – look beyond your locality. • Consider it as a long game. • Prepare for much higher interest rates (oh, by the by, you could consider borrowing against your main residence, since rates will be lower – but do you have the nerve? Also, make sure you tell your lender why). • Sit down and work out your return, after all income and costs. Repeat the exercise on a regular basis and manage both sides of the accounts. • Hone your skills – do a decorating/ joinery/bookkeeping course. It will save you money, unless your marginal earnings and time are

of higher value than the cost of a tradesperson. • Sell, if you see better opportunities elsewhere – why don’t landlords do more of that? • Look to build partnerships with friends and family – but do choose carefully. • Plan your exit. • Remember that having ten properties can actually be less risky than a couple – but reinvest profits to bring down mortgage borrowing as quickly as possible. • Don’t be put off by the naysayers. There is lots of evidence that investors buy at the top and sell at the bottom, for various reasons. Property is illiquid, compared with shares, but consider price movement over the past year. Hunt for likely value! Finally – take independent advice. And talk to your spouse – believe me, it’s a joint effort.

Lawrence Watts is a chartered financial planner with HBB. Contact 07982 235543, 01727 862477

AND FOR THOSE WHO LIKE STATISTICS... From Nationwide’s House Price Survey Period Average UK price change 1983(Q2) – 1987(Q2) £27,386 -> £42,987 1987 – 1993 £42,987 -> £51,918 1993 – 1998 £51,918 -> £58,403 1998 – 2001 £58,403 -> £87,638 2001 – 2008 £87,638 -> £174,514 2008 – 2012 £174,514-> £164,955

Percentage change +56% +20% +12% +50% +99% -5%

DESIRABLE NEW HOMES in sought after locations

This is a computer generated image and some details may vary

WALNUT TREES HILL Ashbury, Oxfordshire SN6 8DB

BADELYNGE YARD High Street, Urchfont, Wilthsire SN10 4QP

An exclusive community of just 10, four and five bedroom detached, homes of exceptional quality

A characterful community of 19 beautiful family homes, ranging from two to five bedrooms, in the heart of this idyllic village

From £659,950 to £789,950

From £245,000 to £760,000

This is a computer generated image and some details may vary

MANOR FARM Up Hatherley, Cheltenham GL51 3ED

ROWDEN COURT off Coppice Close, Wiltshire SN15 2NN

Last few refurbished homes remaining – two, three and six bedroom (Grade II listed project)

A development of one, three and four bedroom homes, nestled on the edge of the historic market town of Chippenham

From £265,000 to £625,000

From £235,000 to £340,000

For further information about any of our developments please contact 01454 316633 or email info@redcliffehomes.co.uk

redcliffehomes.co.uk

london 25

Find your new home at Whathouse.com

A touch of class Harrods Estates Asset Management prides itself on exceptional levels of service and quality of staff

live, with the most beautiful entrance lobby for residents to enjoy and call home. The development has a private leisure facility, which is synonymous with the luxury and privacy required and has been designed with a boutique hotel feel.” Bunel now has some 15 years of experience in the five-star hospitality

industry, having previously worked at Silversea Cruises, the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group and Hyatt Hotels before moving into luxury residential property management. He adds: “Our aim is for each of our residents to walk into a Harrods Estates managed building and feel that they can enjoy the sumptuous relaxation areas or the gym and be at home.

“In addition, we can help them with their busy lives, whether it be a simple request like booking them a car or organising for their dry cleaning to be taken care of to bigger requests such as booking venues or helping to arrange parties. “One request we had was that a client wanted to take his son to see a film but he didn’t want anyone to see him there or bother him, so he asked us to book every seat in the cinema. We did and they had a lovely time!” For the most part, however, residents’ requests are not so extraordinary and it is often by taking care of mundane matters where Bunel and his team provide the most valuable help for their customers. “Most of our clients ask for everyday things to enable them to enjoy or focus on what matters most. For us it’s about delivering what our clients want and to surpass their expectations. When everyone has moved in at Ebury Square, we will have a team of 19 staff who will provide a service 24 hours a day.”

To find out more about Harrods Estates Asset Management, visit www.harrodsestates.com/assetmanagement; 020 3626 7565. For further information about Harrods Estates or luxury properties for sale in London at Ebury Square, Trevor Square or 375 Kensington High Street, visit www.harrodsestates.com; 020 7225 6506.

T M O BU O TH S D NT I IN 1S IR H S E T EC S AD SS TO ON W ES I T RY TH LL O FO E W RE RE P R HA CE LY £9 T IV 9 HO E + 1 VA US 2 E T

y lvain Bunel, who is responsible for the operational management and 24-hour concierge service at Berkeley Homes’ luxurious London development, Ebury Square, exemplifies the standards that residents at such an exclusive scheme might expect and that any company bearing the Harrods name might provide. “At Harrods Estates Asset Management, we pride ourselves in offering the highest-quality, mostefficient concierge service,” explains Bunel. “Whether it be hiring a private jet, organising theatre tickets or simply collecting the residents’ post, my team and myself are on hand 24 hours a day to assist. Ebury Square, pictured, is the latest development to offer Harrods Estates Asset Management concierge service. Having that facility can often be an important factor in the purchaser’s decision when choosing a home in London, says Bunel. “At Ebury Square, the developer has created a luxurious and secure place to

Full contact details: including telephone, address, email and web links, logo

From renovations to finishing touches. Make it your business.

Summary description: to help promote you on the search results

Try the dedicated property directory, target the specific audience you have wanted for years! They want your services NOW!

Send to a friend: at the click of a button viewers can send your business details to their friends

Full description: lots of space for you to describe your business and services Image gallery: post up to 9 images of your business Google maps: so people can easily see where you are Video snippet: add an advert or video to show the atmosphere even better

Add / Share: quick and easy for customers to add your business information to the web and share your information via social networking sites (Google+1, Twitter and Facebook) Description: 100 word description about the services you offer Please contact Steve Coyle for further information on 0207 940 1074 or email sc@whathouse.co.uk

150392H Composite 340x265_150392H Composite 340x265 27/10/2014 14:58 Page 1

Inspired by tradition

TRADITIONAL CHARACTER, CONTEMPORARY LIVING If you're searching for a new home with traditional charm as well as all the internal features you desire for comfortable, convenient and stylish living, look no further than Hopkins Homes and Hopkins and Moore. We are East Anglia's leading developers, building collections of homes to exceptionally high standards, each one individually designed to complement its setting, be it town, village, countryside or coast.

Call us or visit our website for further information hopkinshomes.co.uk â&#x20AC;˘ 01394 446860 Hopkins Homes builds traditional award winning homes throughout Suffolk, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire and Essex

london 27

Find your new home at Whathouse.com

Choice of buying options at new Wembley development Award-winning Network Living launches a new collection of 81 apartments near the iconic stadium

e twork Living, who picked up Bronze for Best Starter Home at the WhatHouse? Awards 2014 for its Langhorne Place development in Dollis Hill, is returning to north-west London for the launch of Lime Walk, a collection of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments situated just around the corner from Wembley Stadium. Designed by award-winning architects PCKO and with stylish interiors, Lime Walk is set to be one

of the area’s standout developments. Situated in a leafy, tree-lined avenue and surrounded by landscaped communal grounds, it’s situated five minute’ walk from the thriving leisure and retail hub of Wembley Park. The good news for purchasers trying to get on the property ladder in this part of London is that there are three buying options at Lime Walk. Those that can afford it can simply buy one of the apartments at market value, starting from £325,000 for a one-bedroom property. However, apartments can also be bought under the shared equity scheme, where buyers purchase 80% of the market value of their home and borrow the remaining 20% in the form of an equity loan, which is interest-free for the first five years. The shared equity guide prices start from £360,000 for a two-bedroom apartment and £440,000 for a threebedroom duplex apartment.

For buyers with more severe budgetary constraints, and who fit the eligibility criteria, there is also a selection of homes available through shared ownership, with guide prices starting at £117,250 for a minimum 35% share in a two-bedroom apartment (full market value £335,000). Every owner is liable for a service charge which covers the cost of communal maintenance, gardening and buildings insurance, regardless of how they purchased their home. Boasting no fewer than six dedicated play areas, the development is particularly well suited to families, who will also value nearby independent and state schools including Byron Court Primary, rated Outstanding by Ofsted. The 81 apartments at Lime Walk are housed in three contemporary redbrick buildings and benefit from private balconies or terraces, some of which

have panoramic views over London. The internal specification includes a fitted kitchen with integrated SMEG fridge/freezer and washer/dryer, and Hansgrohe brassware in the bathroom. Lime Walk offers excellent access into central London. The tube from Wembley Park tube station, just five minutes’ walk

away, takes 23 minutes to Waterloo and 19 minutes to Kings Cross. Rail services from Wembley Stadium station, around 15 minutes away on foot, reach Marylebone in 14 minutes. Find out more from sales agents Imagine on www.imagineliving.co.uk; 020 3667 1516.

LIME WALK WEMBLEY

SHOW HOME NOW OPEN LIME WALK COMPRISES A CONTEMPORARY COLLECTION OF 1, 2 & 3 BEDROOM APARTMENTS • Intelligently designed layouts offering a fantastic speciﬁcation

• A 5 min walk from Wembley Park Station with links to the West End within 30 mins on the Jubilee line*

• Moments from Wembley Stadium, the SSE Arena and the London Designer Outlet

• Less than a mile from Fryent Country Park offering 254 acres of open space*

Prices from £280,000† Flexible buying options available Marketing Suite & Show Home open Thursday to Monday, 10am to 5pm, Sunday 10am - 4pm Viewings by appointment only

networkliving.co.uk

0203 667 1516

LIME-WALK.CO.UK

Computer generated image of Lime Walk. Internal images of previous Network Living developments. *Travel times and distances approximate only taken from Google maps and TFL. †Prices correct at time of press.

G E T MOV IN G WITH N ETW O R K LIVING Offering a stylish selection of homes across well connected locations with a number of flexible buying options available.

THE CHOICE IS YOURS...

S T R E AT H A M S W 2

Warehouse SW2

The Junction SW9

Alpine Place NW9

1, 2, 3 bedroom apartments Prices from £312,500

1 & 2 bedroom apartments Prices from £333,000

2 & 3 bedroom apartments & duplexes Prices from £355,000

020 7704 5618

0300 373 3000

0203 667 1518

LIME WALK WEMBLEY

243 Ealing Road HA0

Wykeham Place NW2

Lime Walk HA9

2 & 3 bedroom apartments Prices from £355,000

1 & 2 bedroom apartments Prices from £255,000

1, 2 & 3 bed apartments Prices from £280,000

020 7704 5618

0808 168 7900

0203 667 1516

networkliving.co.uk Full asking prices referenced and correct at time of press. Shared Ownership and Shared Equity options available on selected homes. Computer generated images and photography of developments.

london 29

Find your new home at Whathouse.com

Agent Insight We speak to Nick Karamanlis, sales director of Stirling Ackroyd in Shoreditch Could you please give us a brief introduction to your company and the area in which you operate? We were one of the first agents in Shoreditch when we set up in Curtain Road in 1986, back when this area was still an unfashionable northern fringe of the City. We have been involved with the artists and movements taking place in the area since the 90s and have always been part of the east London culture. Expanding the business into vibrant areas such as Bankside, the West End, Clerkenwell and Hackney has meant we have become known for working with unconventional properties such as loft conversions and warehouses. It has been fascinating to see how the areas have changed over time, as the City fringes and east London have become among the most sought-after areas in the capital.

What is the property market currently like in your area?

What types of properties do you sell and let? There is no standard type, as the area we cover and the architecture here are extremely varied, but we are synonymous with warehouses and conversions, especially in central Shoreditch.

There has been a great deal of discussion about Crossrail (the main work here is expected to be completed in 2017), and the areas that will benefit are a good bet for investors. I also feel that Whitechapel and Bethnal Green offer excellent value.

It has been a mixed bag of late. The second half of 2014 saw a less frenzied, traditional market where supply was more in line with demand, keeping prices stable. January has seen the emergence of first-time buyers in their droves, with many sales of sub£500,000 properties being agreed with sealed bids. How much do properties typically cost to buy and rent?

What do you expect to see happen in the local property market during 2015? In an election year it is difficult to predict, but at the moment the market is still going from strength to strength, albeit in a more controlled and measured way. Things can always change quickly in the London property market, but local and international demand remains very strong. Contact: www.stirlingackroyd.com; 020 7749 3838

As you would expect, it is all dependent on size, location and quality but in the Shoreditch area properties are typically trading at around £850-£1,000 per sq ft.

FACT BOX

Are there any particular areas in which investors should be looking to buy property?

Locations: Shoreditch, Bankside, West End, Clerkenwell, Hackney

Founded: 1986 Branches: Five

Expertise: Residential sales, new homes, commercial, overseas property

get to the point selling off plan now the point | the upper drive | hove The Point is an elegant boutique development of just eight luxury 1 and 2 bedroom apartments and one stunning 3 bedroom penthouse, all with private outdoor space. Spacious and stylish, each with a luxurious specification which will seduce and delight. Tremendous attention has been paid to every detail and the advanced design, incorporating sustainable energies, will please the most discerning purchaser. Prices from £295,000

01273 829300 e: thepoint@mishonmackay.com w: www.mishonmackay.com Computer generated image is for illustrative purposes only. Exact finishes must be verified.

a new concept in designer city apartments, created with flair and passion to deliver a superb contemporary living environment

Now pay

less on Stamp Duty! Ask for details.

Mayflower Mews exterior

Mayflower Mews show apartment interior

Mayflower Mews Southampton

2 bed apartments from £124,000 with Help to Buy* (£155,000 full price)

3 bed homes

from £204,000 with Help to Buy* (£255,000 full price)

Visit us today at this stunning development, just 3 miles from the centre of Southampton, and ask about our Inspirations - a range of stylish extras available to help you express your personality and make your new home unique.

With incentive schemes, including Help to Buy* available, there’s never been a better time to make the move.

Sholing, Southampton SO19 9JA @lovell_uk

Available on the iPad

Marketing Suite and Showhome open: Tuesday to Sunday 10am - 5pm, Monday 11am - 5pm.

/lovellhomes

Tel: 02380 083 045 lovellnewhomes.co.uk

Items from Inspirations range available subject to stage of build. * Prices based on plots 12 & 6. Help to Buy Scheme prices are shown excluding 20% equity loan. Scheme available on selected properties in England, on homes up to £600,000. Subject to terms and conditions. Lovell cannot advise you on a mortgage. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE OR ANY DEBT SECURED ON IT. Full details available on request. Prices correct at time of going to print, 23rd January 2015.

hampshire

Find your new home at Whathouse.com

Best of both worlds Making the most of town and country life at a new home in Andover

h ile many people dream of swapping their bustling urban life for a more peaceful existence in the countryside, others aspire to making the reverse journey. The Armstrongs are such a family, deciding sleepy village life wasn’t for them anymore and that they would find much more to do on the doorstep at The Chariots at Augusta Park, a Taylor Wimpey development in Andover, Hampshire. Life was sweet for mum and dad, Lisa and Neil, in their rural home but as their sons Tom (18) and Sam (10), are growing up, the whole family began dreaming of living somewhere that offered more leisure options close to home. The whole family agrees they have found that in their new home, with the bonus that the countryside isn’t far away at all. Company director Lisa says: “I do feel like I’ve got the best of both worlds here. We’ve got the town centre two miles away, which provides lots of different activities, local shops, a cinema, theatre and leisure centre. But

we’re also just half-a-mile from some lovely traditional country pubs, which we can walk to safely from home.

“We decided to move out of a village location as the children were growing up and we wanted to live somewhere with more of a community, and more activities for them and the whole family to enjoy. We chose a home that was on the edge of the development, very close to the surrounding fields and farmland, where we are able to walk our dog, but still be in a location close to my company in Andover town centre. “It’s also close to Sam’s new school, Endeavour Primary School, which is actually on the development so he is able to walk to school and lots of his friends live close by. We’ve met lots of new people in the area and we feel we’re

really part of the community here.” They love the new lifestyle they’ve made for themselves in their fourbedroom detached house, which they moved into in early 2014. But they are not the only ones – Taylor Wimpey proudly boasts that every single customer who bought a property at The Chariots between December 2012 and October 2013 would recommend the company to friends and family, according to latest figures from the National House Building Council (NHBC). There is still a range of new homes currently available to reserve at The Chariots, including three-bedroom houses priced from £250,000 and four-bedroom detached homes from £278,000. The development is more than just a collection of new dwellings, though: new amenities such as a new primary school, community centre, sports hall and playing fields are being constructed alongside the homes. Find out more by visiting the sales information centre at The Chariots at Augusta Park, located off Icknield Way, Andover, which is open daily from 10.00am to 5.00pm, or call 01264 310732.

FAIRLAWN WARREN ROAD • COOMBE HILL • KINGSTON UPON THAMES

Firgrove Homes present the opportunity to savour elegant living at Fairlawn, an exclusive gated collection of just four beautifully appointed luxury residences benefitting from landscaped gardens, a private meadow and three secure parking spaces per property. Comprising a Victorian mansion sympathetically renovated and converted to two 5/6 bedroom homes and two new detached 4/5 bedroom homes built in complimentary style, these homes blend classic and contemporary and exude quality and style. Two available, prices from £2.5million

elegant living on kingston’s private coombe hill estate

Showhome open Wednesday to Sunday from 11am - 5pm Warren Road, Coombe Hill, Kingston upon Thames KT2 7HY

JOINT SELLING AGENTS

FIND US ON:

A DEVELOPMENT BY

www.firgrovehomes.co.uk

FIR29117 Fairlawn - What House? Magazine CD: 25/11 (created week 49) Size: 168x265mm

020 8947 9393

020 8971 8111

here is a small yet significant investment market that can be easily over-looked. It’s the market for rare stamps. Due to supply-demand dynamics, it’s a market that continues to grow, with finite, heritage assets sought by global collectors and astute investors. It’s an alternative that offers strong portfolio diversification. Uncorrelated with more traditional asset classes and with generally slow, steadily moving markets, rare stamps can offer a buffer against volatility.

Want to invest big? Maybe you should think small. I

t’s a market where experience and expertise make all the difference. One where one name stands tall above all others: Stanley Gibbons, with our 158 years’ experience of ‘stock picking’ rare and precious stamps. With no management, storage or insurance fees – Stanley Gibbons only charges a commission on any portfolio growth – investing in rare stamps (or coins) could prove very profitable. So for an alternative investment opportunity that could both balance and grow your portfolio, why not invest in a small piece of history? It could play a big part in your future.

For further information call 0845 026 7170, or get your free investment guide at: sginvest.co.uk/wh The value of your investment can go down as well as up and you may not get back what you put in. Stamps and certain other collectibles are not designated investments for the purposes of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Regulated Activities) Order 2001 and as such are not subject to regulation by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) or otherwise. Past performance or experience does not necessarily give a guide for the future. Stanley Gibbons Investment does not provide valuations; please visit www.stanleygibbons.com for information on valuations, and investment.stanleygibbons.com for full terms and conditions.

hampshire

Find your new home at Whathouse.com

Property of the month from Waterfords in Yateley

ituated on the sought after Yateley/Eversley border, this four-bedroom Charles Church ‘Stratford’ design home has just come on to the market, priced at £530,000. The property would represent an ideal purchase for a family in search of a little more space. Downstairs, family

life is centred on the double-aspect living room, which has doors opening out into the conservatory. There is also a separate dining room. Heading up the staircase to the first floor, there are four-bedrooms, with the main focal point being the master bedroom, which features a luxury en suite shower room.

Further benefits here include double glazing, ample parking and double garage. With properties in this area rarely becoming available, early viewings are being encouraged. For more information see www.waterfords.co.uk or call 01252 870222.

Thinking of selling your home? Do you know how much your home is really worth? Find out with our FREE valuation service. It’s a quick and easy process that you can carry out online or over the phone. Visit www.whathouse.com/value-my-property/value-myproperty-now or call us now on 01245 835 053.

WhatHouse? works with a team of reputable agents that will carry out the free valuation

£?

hampshire

Find your new home at Whathouse.com

Hants on fire!

David Wilson Homes brings new homes to a number of Hampshire addresses in 2015

n a crowded marketplace, with many large and small developers currently building all over the southern counties of England, it sometimes takes a different

approach to get noticed in the crowd. David Wilson Homes (DWH) – a division of the Barratt Group – believes it is doing this at its developments in Hampshire via its distinctive approach to design and

Windmill View,

through its portfolio of initiatives to help buyers, especially its Movemaker scheme. These factors combined are generating a great deal of interest from house-hunters across the county.

Meadowcroft,

DWH has sites in Clanfield, Denvilles and Petersfield that between them offer a huge range of property types and sizes, from two-bedroom starter homes to beautifully appointed five-bedroom

Manor Farm,

family homes. Prices currently range from just under £300,000 to around £850,000, catering to a wide spectrum of budgets as well as requirements for space and specification.

Foxfield Grove,

Clanfield

Denvilles

Petersfield

This collection of four- and five-bedroom homes, currently being marketed for between £415,000 and £599,950, is built against the unique backdrop of the South Downs National Park. Ideally located close to the village centre, and situated a short distance from Petersfield and Waterlooville, homes here provide easy access to the A3 and excellent links to London. It could be the perfect rural retreat for commuters looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and more home for their money. Clanfield is a sought-after place to live, particularly for lovers of the outdoors; its rural location the perfect base for walking, cycling and other country pursuits. The village has a variety of shops and restaurants and there is further choice nearby in Petersfield, just seven miles away.

A secluded close of just 12 privately owned threeand four-bedroom homes, this is an enclave of the wider Windmill View development. Currently on sale for £310,000 to £335,000, the properties here provide a lower price point with which to enjoy the same country lifestyle and convenient proximity to amenities and transport links as the neighbouring new homes. Clanfield’s own amenities mean most everyday needs are catered for without having to trek too far from the doorstep, with traditional shops including a newsagent, butcher, hairdresser and greengrocer, among others. Commuters will appreciate the easy drive to places like Portsmouth, Southampton, Chichester and Guildford and it’s only 75 minutes by rail into Waterloo station from Petersfield.

This development of three-, four- and fivebedroom homes is just five minutes’ walk from the station at Warblington, near Denvilles. Overlooking rolling fields, this collection offers something to appeal to families and commuters alike. Local schools and convenient transport links are within easy reach and proximity to coast and countryside means residents can enjoy an enviable lifestyle. Nearby Havant town centre has all your shopping needs covered with a good selection of high street shops and cafés. Numerous pubs and bars and a variety of restaurants and takeaways will certainly never leave you short of options in the evenings or at weekends. The current range of four- and five-bedroom houses here are on the market at £399,999 to £530,000.

This exclusive new development was shortlisted for a Sunday Times design award and showcases the style and quality that is associated with DWH. Foxfield Grove features a selection of two, three-, four- and five-bedroom properties Sales director Michelle Storer was delighted with the initial launch, which has generated high levels of interest from potential homeowners: “We knew that this development would generate considerable interest because of its superb location; it is close to the National Park, a short distance from the town centre and local amenities, it also has excellent road and rail links and offers a wide range of properties.” David Wilson is currently marketing the development’s four- and five-bedroom homes with prices ranging from £535,000 for a fourbedroom ‘Cornell’ through to the five-bedroom ‘Gilthorpe’ for £850,000.

Call 023 8181 0395

Call 023 8181 0397

Call 023 8181 0394

Call 01243 630 190

MORE SPACE FOR LIVING For some people, it is the kitchen that must have space; others want open-plan living to entertain; families often prioritise outside areas; and teenagers love the idea of their own space. DWH sales director Michelle Storer says: “Gone are the days when people judge a new home purely on the number of bedrooms. Nowadays buyers are more discerning and they put use of space, quality of design and build and location above everything else.’’ She says the key is providing homes that cater for modern-day living and that means free-flowing space and quality in everything from light and airy designs through to energy-efficient appliances. “Homes in the past were simply not designed for modern living,’’ she says.

AN EASIER WAY TO SELL YOUR HOME “People want carefully-planned design and functionality – not just lots of rooms that don’t really work. Above all they want to be comfortable.’’ She adds that research by DWH had revealed the importance of space to buyers of all ages and its homes and their changing priorities during the time they live there. “Our homes have lounges that are large enough to entertain family and friends. We have spacious kitchens, many with breakfast and family areas and built-in storage. We also recognise the importance of creating separate areas for different family members and offer luxurious en suite bathrooms and homes with separate studies offering flexible living for those working from home.’’

With Movemaker, DWH will pay the estate agents fees, which could save home movers thousands of pounds on the value of the average family home. The scheme involves DWH taking charge of the marketing of your existing home by having it valued by two independent surveyors and then instructing an estate agent to market it, leaving you free to plan your move. The valuations, which are based on the local area and achieved property sold values, are provided within 24 hours and confirmed by a full valuation carried out within seven days by an estate agent. This fast turnaround means buyers know exactly how much they can spend on their new home very quickly, minimising delays in the moving process. Movemaker also

means you don’t spend time liaising with agents selling your home and the price should find a buyer quickly and at a price that will keep you happy. Michelle Storer remarks: “We have seen a marked increase in people looking to move up the housing ladder and Movemaker is proving an ideal way for people to move into one of our homes. You have no estate agent fees to pay and our experienced teams are on hand to provide a hassle-free experience to new homebuyers.’’

STATION ROAD, AYLESFORD, ME20 7JH

HOME I T ’S A S M A L L WO RD W ITH A BIG M E A N I N G A stunning new gated development of 4 & 5 bedroom houses in the picturesque village of Aylesford, Kent. Beautifully landscaped with a mixture of imaginatively designed homes Ashlin Quarter is the perfect place to call home.

FOR FURTHER DETAILS AND TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT

W E B : W W W. A S H L I N Q U A R T E R . C O M / K E N T TEL: 01622 790 090

EMAIL: INFO@ASHLINQUARTER.COM

Help to Buy

MARKETING SUITE/SHOW HOUSE OPENING HOURS, 10AM – 5PM, 7 DAYS A WEEK Prices are correct at time of going to press. Computer Generated Imagery is for illustrative purposes only. Interior pictures are of the show house at Ashlin Quarter, the Blackwell and furnishings are not included. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE OR ANY OTHER DEBT SECURED ON IT. Available on new build homes up to £600,000 subject to the Government’s ‘Help to Buy’ terms and conditions and only available to customers where a primary mortgage is secured. Not available on second, additional homes, buy-to-let or let-to-buy properties. The equity loan is interest free for the first five years and needs to be a minimum of 10% of the purchase price up to a maximum of 20%. After five years, an annual fee of 1.75% of the outstanding equity loan is charged. This is increased annually at + 1% RPI. Subject to status, terms and conditions apply. 014767 ASHLIN WHAT HOUSE? AD D2 (PRINT).indd 1

07/01/2015 11:20

kent

Find your new home at Whathouse.com

New homes spotlight: Michael Shwartz Group Based in Stanmore, north London, Michael Shwartz Group is growing its reputation for high-quality new homes at developments around the South East of England, including a scheme of family homes in the Kent village of Aylesford. We speak to managing director Michael Shwartz and take a closer look at the Ashlin Court development. Hi Michael. What are housing market conditions currently like in the areas where you are building? There are very buoyant conditions at the moment. Kent in particular is only an hour away from London and we have seen a keen interest from young families who wish to have a bigger home but cannot afford it in London, as well as downsizers who are seeking a different lifestyle. Aside from Ashlin Court (see box), what other projects are you working on and what’s in the development pipeline? At Roxeth Green Avenue in south Harrow, which forms part of a major

mixed-use regeneration scheme that we have been working on for eight years, we are currently working on the final phase of the project. properties overseas. We are also working on a major scheme in Alperton, an area in Brent, north-west London. The development, also part of wider regeneration project, will feature about 2,000 new homes, including 20-30% affordable housing. Property prices in the new development will start from around £180,000 for a one-bedroom apartment. What types of properties is your firm developing? We develop apartments and houses as well as some commercial units that are integrated with apartments.

ASHLIN QUARTER, AYLESFORD

h e recently launched Ashlin Quarter in Aylesford, is a brand new community of 95 properties that will be delivered in phases over the course of the next three years. Phase 1 comprises 24 four- and five-bedroom homes priced from £395,000. The site is a former Somerfield distribution centre covering approximately 7.8 acres. “It was an eyesore and had been derelict for many years,” says Michael Shwartz. “We initially rented the site to local businesses to allow them an opportunity to set up new businesses at a very low rent. We also saw this as an opportunity to give the area a much-needed change, which was received well by residents and the local council.” The Michael Shwartz team is hoping to inspire house-hunters with its design-led approach, stylish specification and attention to detail, making each home comfortable, practical and efficient and providing a modern feel that nevertheless fits in comfortably with the traditional housing stock of the village. Set within a gated development, Ashlin Quarter is located in one of the most scenic and picturesque parts of the Garden of England. Aylesford itself is a village steeped in history, combining old-world charm with a range of local amenities for day-to-

day needs, plenty of good schools and a welcoming community spirit. “As well as bringing a new community to Aylesford, we were keen to give something back, too,” adds Shwartz. “We were committed to appointing local tradespeople and suppliers, thereby creating employment but also forging links with the businesses who were selected based on their superb craftsmanship and attention to detail. This has made Ashlin Quarter the success that it is proving to be, and we are delighted with the outcome and hard work put in by the whole team.” With tranquil and peaceful surroundings in its lush countryside setting, the village is also under an hour away by train to King’s Cross St Pancras thanks to its connection to the HS1 High Speed line. The Channel Tunnel is only half-an-hour away by car and the Eurostar stations at Ebbsfleet and Ashford are only a short distance away. The government-backed Help to Buy initiative is also available at Ashlin Quarter, so buyers only require a 5% deposit whether they are firsttime buyers or existing homeowners.

Find out more at www.ashlinquarter.com; 01622 790 090

How much does a new home by Michael Shwartz typically cost to buy? This is all dependent on the area in which we are building. Prices are driven by demand and we like to ensure that all our developments are priced competitively.

people to move in straightaway and then stamp their own style on their home. New build homes are also less costly to insulate as a result of current building regulations. The homes are more airtight and insulated better, therefore reducing your energy costs in the long run.

Why should more buyers consider buying a new build home as opposed to older property? All of our new build properties come with a 10-year warranty. With new build you have the luxury of modern appliances, brand new carpets, and kitchens and bathrooms that are decorated in neutral colours, allowing

Is it worth buying property during the off-plan stage of construction? Very much so. If you buy early your price is secured and, as the market is ever changing with prices being driven by demand, you may find that you end up paying less than your neighbour who bought the same property six months later. We do try and help people

to buy by releasing special offers at Ashlin Quarter e.g. over the Christmas and New Year period we had an offer to reserve a number of plots by a certain date and, to help the buyer, we agreed to pay the stamp duty as well as legal fees up to £1,000. We reserved two homes as result of the offer. What is Michael Shwartz Group’s USP? I believe that what sets us apart from the rest is our commitment to our customers. We are very community focused and involve local residents as well as people who have purchased from us previously or are considering purchasing from us in various aspects of the building process. We personally respond to customers as quickly and efficiently as possible, rectifying any issues they may have as soon as possible. We update our social media on an almost daily basis letting people see how their homes are being built to give them reassurance and confidence that their home is being built to the highest standard. Which of the developments Michael Shwartz Group is currently developing do you think stands the best chance of winning a WhatHouse? Award? Ashlin Quarter, our latest development of 95 houses in Aylesford, Kent. Overall, I believe the Ashlin Quarter will bring something new to the community. A refreshing change while being respectful of the historic surroundings and giving people the chance to grow their families, build memories and live happily together as a community.

38 kent

Find your new home at Whathouse.com

Focus on: Tunbridge Wells

FEATURED PROPERTIES Oakhurst Lodge, TN4 £399,000 A pretty, single-storey, 19thcentury lodge house within the grounds of the iconic Molyneux Place. This two-bedroom property boasts a range of Georgian-style features, with arched sash windows and a stunning decorative porch.

ith a market heavily influenced by London activity, property prices in Tunbridge Wells have been on the rise, and all indications point to a continuing increase in demand in early 2015. Natasha Selbie of Savills gives us the lowdown on what attracts buyers to one of Kent’s most popular towns.

OVERVIEW

Tunbridge Wells boasts stunning town and country houses to suit all requirements. Buyers enjoy a high quality of family life, with convenient road and rail links, excellent sporting and leisure facilities and a great choice of schools.

PROPERTIES House styles vary from the historic Regency elegance of the Tunbridge Wells Parks to Georgian and Victorian farmhouses in the villages, as well as rural country estates, equestrian properties and striking contemporary houses.

SHOPPING Many retailers are represented in Royal Victoria Place, meeting up with smaller and boutique-style shops in the high street area. The town is also known for The Pantiles, which houses specialist shops, pubs, cafes and restaurants.

TOP STREETS

Park, Hungershall Park, Nevill Park and Camden Park are the top streets here, featuring fine Victorian villas and Grade II listed Regency houses.

RESTAURANTS AND PUBS The huge variety here includes Sankey’s Seafod Brasserie, Hotel Du Vin & Bistro, the Black Pig pub and dining

IN NUMBERS

LEISURE The town has a number of spas and leisure centres, as well as a range of sporting venues including cricket, golf and lawn tennis clubs. Further afield, explorers can enjoy Ashdown Forest, Bedgebury Pinetum and Bewl Water Country Park. There is also a number of National Trust properties in the area.

56,500 - population

SCHOOLS

51 – minutes to London Waterloo East on the train

There is an excellent choice of schools here, including Tunbridge Wells Girls’ Grammar and The Skinners’ School and The Judd School and Tonbridge Grammar School in nearby Tonbridge. Private schools include Holmewood House and Beechwood Sacred Heart.

4,364 – 12-month London season ticket price in pounds 339,271 – average property price in pounds

TLL2300_Layout 1 20/01/2015 16:19 Page 1

Known locally as The Parks, Calverley

room, and Thackeray’s – home of Michelin-star modern French cuisine.

Lanthorne Mews, TN1 £575,000 A three-bedroom modern townhouse on the southern side of Crescent Road. Accommodation over three floors, with a private rear garden, communal courtyard, rose garden and terrace.

St James Road. TN1 £775,000 A substantial three-bedroom semi-detached Victorian house with high ceilings and sash windows, stained glass and exposed floorboards. This home benefits from a guest bedroom with en suite facilities and a private garden.

TRANSPORT There are regular train services in to London that take less than an hour. There is also easy access to the M25, M20 and Channel Tunnel.

Cambridge 3 seater sofa was £1459 - now £969

Contact: www.savills.co.uk; 01892 507000

Chesterfield 3 seater sofa was £1299 - now £889

If you are searching for the finest hand-built leather upholstery without the usual extravagant price tags, then you need to look no further than the latest Thomas Lloyd brochure. By selling direct from our factory you get furniture at Trade Prices and of a far higher quality than you would from your local shops at similar prices.

100%

MONEY BACK GUARANTEE

YEAR FRAME GUARANTEE

21 day home trial

2 years other materials

DELIVERING CRAFTSMANSHIP & QUALITY Since 1981

Direct from the factory quality leather sofas and chairs

Handcrafted in Britain since 1981

For a FREE colour brochure call 01443 771222 or visit us online www.thomaslloyd.co.uk

appliances

Find your new home at Whathouse.com

Hot stuff

Whether you have a large family to cook for or are a serious chef, range cookers offer tremendous flexibility and combine style with practicality, says Richenda Oldham

Clockwise from top: Hot – Smeg’s TR4110RO Victoria range is a reasonably priced traditional looking cooker that comes with an in-your-face pink finish. The multifunctional design includes main and auxiliary ovens, a separate grill, seven high performance gas burners, £1,999, www.smeguk.com; Energetic – The EL 13Amp range cooker from ESSE comes in a choice of 24 enamel colours and simply requires two 13 amp plug sockets to fit. The cooker’s key feature is its ‘power share’ technology, where the energy is pulsed around the cooker to where it is needed, £6,175, www.esse.com; Environmental – For environmentally conscious cooks, the Rayburn 370 SFW offers a neat and greener solution, as this is the firm’s new wood-burning cooker, which runs on wood or solid fuel. It still features a large hotplate and cast-iron upper and lower ovens for roasting, baking and simmering, £5,295, www.rayburn-web.co.uk; Aspirational – If you are a cordon bleu rather than a cook, then nothing less than La Cornue’s Chateau 120 will do. Believe it or not this is the firm’s more compact model, complete with gas and electric vaulted oven, but there are loads of bells and whistles to choose from, including a cast iron hotplate, gas burners, lava rock grill and induction plates, 25 coloured enamels or a stainless steel finish, £21,200, www.lacornue.com; Bespoke – There are eight colours for you to pick from if you buy a Steel Cucine’s Ascot range cooker. This versatile appliance comes in four widths with triple-, double- or single-oven options and a choice of hobs including gas burners, griddle plate, BBQ plate, deep fryer, lava stone grill, ceramic zones, induction and a Mega wok, £1,890, www.steel-cucine.com

“Serving All of Sussex with Local Rates!”

 

    

Removals  Packing Service  Supplies Storage  Handyman Service  Clearances

Small, Medium & Large Vans with 2-3 men crews Great Long Distance Rates and European Moves Free All Inclusive Quotes and in person surveys Friendly, Professional & Efficient Staff Fully Insured! Smaller Firm with No VAT to pay!

Visit our Discount Supplies Shop at 1 Goldstone Road in Beautiful Hove or our web site to purchase for delivery!

0800 027 7500

01273 287282

Removal Company Checklist       

Fully Insured Previous Customer References Reliable, Safe Vehicles Professional Staff Experienced in Fine Furnishings Supplied Packing Materials Thorough Packing Service

Located in the heart of Sussex, A Abbey Removals has been doing business for over 40 years. We have top quality goods in transit insurance and pride ourselves in taking care of your valuables. Our Pro-Pack service uses only double wall boxes and generous padding to protect even the most fragile items. Please check our references... Our customers are our “family” ... it’s our goal to take the stress out of your move, from a single item to a complete household. Call A Abbey today for a free in home survey!

Dorking

surrey

Find your new home at Whathouse.com

New show home for boutique development in Farnham Shanly Homes opens four-bedroom detached house at Vicarage Copse

a rnham is renowned for its Georgian architecture and narrow cobbled streets but it isn’t just its picturesque town centre that draws attention from homebuyers in the Home Counties. Its green open spaces, welcoming pubs and a number of well-regarded schools, such as All Hallows Catholic School and Barfield School, are also much admired, as are its convenient road and rail links. Shanly Homes is capitalising on the interest of house-hunters to the area with a new development of just 11 four- and five-bedroom family homes on the outskirts of this historic market town, the launch of which has been marked by the opening of show home. Prospective buyers now have the opportunity to see first-hand the living space and high specification of the homes at Vicarage Copse. Traditional in design and with a mixture of attractive

Tennison_Property_Ad.indd 1

external features such as gables, latticed brickwork and wooden panels, each of the homes has its own individual character. Prices start at £635,000. The housebuilder has appointed specialists Andrew Henry Interiors to design the interior of the show home. The designers have used neutral tones punctuated with metallic silver and gold detail throughout the property, demonstrating that these homes are both practical and sophisticated. The kitchen, with high-gloss, white fitted units and integrated Siemens and Electrolux stainless steel appliances, will doubtless be the hub of the home for informal meals, while an open-plan living and dining room area which spans the width of the home, makes for an excellent entertaining space. There are double doors flooding the room with natural light and leading out onto the spacious garden, which opens up more possibilities when the

weather is favourable. On the first floor are two double bedrooms, one of which has an en suite bathroom, along with the family bathroom and a smaller, single bedroom. The expansive master bedroom suite, complete with en suite shower room, occupies the entire second floor, providing a quiet and spacious haven for mum and dad. Four-bedroom properties come with a single garage while the five-bedroom house types have double integral garages. Natalie Atkins, sales manager at Shanly Homes (Southern) says: “These beautiful homes have been thoughtfully created to perfectly suit modern living, with generously sized interiors and an exceptionally high specification. Externally however, they exude a traditional appearance, which reflects the character of the surrounding area.”

Find out more and www.shanlyhomes.com or from selling agent Goodfellows on 01372 745562.

25/01/2015 18:54

surrey

Find your new home at Whathouse.com

In the picture

MARKET INSIGHT WITH TONY JAMIESON 2014 “At the beginning of 2014, there was a shortage of housing stock in this area and, as a result, prices were forced upwards. There has been a continued flourish of new planning applications throughout the year, which will result in more new homes being built in the future. The Mortgage Market Review has put restraints on

with Clarke Gammon Wellers

W Guildford

e go around the offices of Clarke Gammon Wellers and take a look at some of their favourite properties, before catching up with senior partner Tony Jamieson, who looks back at 2014 and shares his predictions for the year ahead.

Chantry Quarry £1.625m Contemporary villa-style houses set in a woodland quarry on the fringes of central Guildford. Incredible ingenuity, energy efficiency and an exquisite specification mark an exciting opportunity for an entirely new living experience. (01483 880900)

Shere

Denton £875,000 A beautiful Grade II three-bedroom house originating from 1550. Full of original features including beams, panelled walls and fantastic inglenook fireplace. This property also features a new kitchen, pretty garden and off street parking. (01483 202016)

Liphook

The only British-made refractory clay core heaters in the market ith energy prices increasing year on year and gas a diminishing resource, it’s not easy to choose how best to heat your home. At Sunﬂow, our experts in heat technology have created an outstanding heating solution to keep your home cosy, comfortable and affordable throughout the winter months and for many years to come.

The Science Behind our Heaters Sunﬂow heaters are built from the very best coldrolled steel and have a 10 year guarantee. At the forefront of heat technology, our lightweight refractory clay core boasts such efﬁcient heat transfer because the elements are embedded directly into the core by hand. Our heaters provide 100% of the heat in any single room at the time and temperature you need

• • •

Individual thermostatic controls ﬁtted to every heater. Specially developed heat storage technology Deliver constant heating when you need it.

100% Manufactured in Britain

0800 158 8270 Questions or FREE no obligation survey?

Call Suzanne on 0800 158 8272

10 YEAR GUARANTEE

Why Choose Sunflow? • • • • • • •

WANT TO KNOW MORE? Call our 24hr Brochure Line

Huge range of colours & finishes

buyers being able to obtain finance that, coupled with slower market movement in the city, has resulted in a ‘cooler’ market.”

2015

“The general election is sure to have an effect, but I don’t believe it is having a huge impact on the market right now. The changes in stamp duty have led to a slowdown in the sale of properties

Elmwood Cottage, Nr Liphook £875,000 A magnificent five-bedroom, four-reception room country home in a sought-after rural hamlet surrounded by National Trust common land. This property boasts an enviable location with direct access to Passfield Common. (01428 728900)

British Intelligence. Efficient & stylish heating from Sunflow W

Sunflow are the only British manufacturer of refractory clay heaters Our heaters are handcrafted from start to finish in our factory in Wiltshire A family owned and run business you can rely on Free home advisory service and superb after-service care Slimline designs AND fittings Huge range of colourways to suit every décor Bespoke, hand crafted heaters can be made for every room British Standards Institution Tested

www.sunflowltd.co.uk

Haslemere

above the £2m mark, and although these changes should prove beneficial to the majority of purchases, the upper end of the market will be worse off. “The good news is that despite the shortage in housing stock, particularly for first-time buyers, there are plenty more houses being built or about be built in the next few years.”

Byways Courts Hill £1,965m A new family house situated close to the centre of Haslemere and the mainline station, offering six reception rooms and five bedrooms. Byways House is a traditionally built home with a stunning contemporary interior. (01428 664800)

44 armchair gardener

Find your new home at Whathouse.com

How to start a kitchen garden

5. Pick the leaves on lettuces, leaving the roots, so the leaves can re-grow

Creating your own kitchen garden is not as hard as it might seem. Richenda Oldham sows the seeds for a future veggie harvest

h at could be more satisfying than stepping outside your door to pick your own home grown vegetables? Cultivating your own nosh is certainly one trend that never seems to go away. It doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t matter whether you have

a large garden, a small patio or even just a balcony - simply adjust the scale of your operation accordingly and choose plants that will thrive in the type of conditions you have available. The idea is not to put yourself off for life, but to give yourself a rewarding experience, save some money, be sustainable and enjoy yourself!

Pick the leaves on lettuces, leaving the roots, so the leaves can re-grow

classic English kitchen garden - growing your own A food is both exciting and satisfying

Runner beans will need a simple climbing frame to support them as they grow

Tomatoes are ideal for growing in small spaces such as balconies

aby courgettes are delicious, as are the yellow B flowers, which can be stuffed

Professional kitchen design

Online gallery and developer testimonials: www.moorebydesign.co.uk The Hersham Centre, Hersham, Surrey, KT12 4HL Tel 01932 379076

“My hair has never looked so good, I love my hair, I love Viviscal.” Francine never had issues with her hair and always had thick hair while she was growing up. The first time Francine noticed an issue was two years ago. “When drying my hair, I would feel the heat on my scalp and I thought how odd... When I saw my hair... in the shower, that is when I knew I had a problem.”

“I had no negative side effects with Viviscal. Stick with it, my children have noticed that Viviscal has made a difference and also others have commented on how healthy my hair looks.”

“Thousands of women love Viviscal”

“I’m always looking for clinical data and science behind the product, and there are treatments that I recommend. So Viviscal is great that way, and I’m very satisfied with the data and with the difference I see in my patients.” Dr. Doris Day, New York dermatologist

It is important to ensure that the hair and the scalp are healthy, conditioned and nourished both inside and out to maintain the ideal environment for healthy hair.

Francine heard about Viviscal® through her best friend, who suggested that she try this product that her dermatologist was taking... Francine noticed a difference in three to four months with Viviscal.

Viviscal is recommended by 81% of customers.*

EXPERT APPROVED

The Viviscal Hair Care Programme

STEP 1. NOURISH FROM WITHIN Viviscal Supplements contain AminoMar C®, a proprietary marine protein complex. Combined with Biotin and Zinc, these essential ingredients help to maintain healthy hair from within. Viviscal is grounded in over 20 years of continuous research and development. The efficacy of Viviscal is supported by 9 clinical trials which demonstrated statistically significant results.

Amazing results after just two weeks with Viviscal Hair and Scalp Serum** 0.8 0.7 0.6 0.5 0.4 0.3 0.2 0.1 0

Fuller Day 1

Thicker Day 14

Day 28

STEP 2. CLEANSE AND PREPARE Viviscal Gentle Shampoo has been scientifically formulated to cleanse and gently exfoliate the scalp to remove dead skin cells.

Top 5 Reasons to try Viviscal today! 1 2 3 4 5

Viviscal Moisturising Conditioner contains Argan oil to soften, nourish and condition the scalp and hair.

The only hair supplement to have 9 clinical trials with over 500 women. No.1 hair supplement in the USA+

STEP 3. INVIGORATE AND PROTECT Award-winning Viviscal Hair and Scalp Serum supports healthy hair growth to help hair appear fuller and thicker.

Loved by high profile celebrities including Gwyneth Paltrow, Reese Witherspoon and Katherine Jenkins. Recommended by dermatologists, trichologists, and hair transplant surgeons. Multi-award winning - voted ‘Best Hair Supplement’ in the UK by Harper’s Bazaar magazine.

Become Viviscal Elite to qualify for the best Viviscal prices, products & free gifts shipped to your door every 90 days! Viviscal Elite Entry Kit Only £89.90 • • •

Less than £1 per day Free gifts worth £19.80 Save up to 47% off

Call 0845 399 0041 Visit www.viviscal.co.uk Use VSWH0115 for free p&p worth £4.95 + USA IRI Sales Data for 52 weeks, week ending 02/11/2014. *UK customer survey 2014. **1 month Viviscal Hair and Scalp Serum consumer trial with 109 UK females.

ALSO AVAILABLE FOR MEN

Only

£89.90! VALUE

£169.65

46 sussex

Find your new home at Whathouse.com

Raising the bar

For house-hunters eager for a taste of luxury, style and exclusivity, the award-winning housebuilder Linden Homes presents a trio of premium property collections nestling in some of southern England’s most beautiful countryside.

Heath Wood Felbridge, West Sussex

Natalie Flint of Linden Homes Guildford

royle Park, Swallowhurst and Heath Wood are Linden Homes’ premium developments in the southern counties of England, built to an exceptional standard of space and specification in sought-after locations with access to some of the region’s best schools and most delightful market towns and villages. Natalie Flint, sales and marketing director for Linden Homes Guildford, explains: “Our premium range of houses offers a variety of lifestyles and options, but all share the same ethos of exceptionally high quality and attention to detail. “We’ve created homes of real luxury – large rooms, bursting with features, and full of carefully crafted character. We’ve also looked hard at the surroundings and postcodes to make sure that quality extends far beyond the front door. “There is a lot of interest in homes that enjoy this level of sophistication and high specification design and architecture. Some people, for example, are looking away from London to gain more space and peace for their money. “At Froyle Park, Swallowhurst and Heath Wood you get more than a luxurious home – you also inherit a lifestyle that’s hard to put a price on.” Here, we take a closer look at all three of these high-end boutique developments to consider the appeal of each of them in turn. Find out more about the current array of Linden Homes developments at www.lindenhomes.co.uk.

House-hunters seeking a touch of luxury have had their attention caught by Linden Homes’ million-pound Heath Wood collection in the village of Felbridge, West Sussex. Prices for this premier collection start at £1.25million, with features including large gardens, expansive rooms, lavish fixtures and fittings, and detailed architecture and craftsmanship which embrace the local character. Heath Wood is divided into two private cul-de-sacs set back from a peaceful country lane. The development launched in early January but with only 11 homes on the market – all containing five-bedrooms – it will be buyers who act quickest who secure such a highly prized opportunity. Felbridge itself borders the High Weald, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and is close to local schools, shops and transport links. Just two miles away is the popular market town of East Grinstead, with its 14th-century buildings alongside eateries, bars, a theatre, gym and shopping. For commuters, it also has a train service direct to Waterloo in one hour and 14 minutes. There are also stations at Dormans 2.5 miles away and Lingfield, just under 3.5 miles away. To find our more and to register your interest, call 0844 488 1671.

Swallowhurst

Froyle Park

Cranleigh, Surrey

Upper Froyle, Hampshire

Set in 33 acres of stunning historic woodland just a mile from the centre of charming Cranleigh, Swallowhurst is a collection of four-, five- and six-bedroom executive houses. Beautifully designed to reflect the Arts and Crafts style so prominent in this popular area of Surrey, prices at the development start at £1.575million for a five-bedroom home. Swallowhurst has been built by Linden Homes in partnership with Wates Developments, and is a flagship collection. The show home – in the five-bedroom ‘Ockley’ style, complete with double garage – illustrates why Swallowhurst has become such an enviable address. Walk through the front door and an immediate sense of grandeur is created by the stunning imperial oak staircase, complemented by partially glazed double oak doors leading to the downstairs reception rooms. A sumptuous formal drawing room provides the ideal place for guests to retire after dinner or for adults to spend time away from the hustle and bustle of the main family area. The village of Cranleigh offers access to an excellent mix of shopping options: from quaint village boutique stores and an independent butcher’s and fishmonger’s to high street names including Marks & Spencer. This area of west Surrey also offers some of the most highly regarded schools in the country including Cranleigh School, Charterhouse, St Catherine’s and Longacre.

Froyle Park is an exclusive mix of the new and refurbished; ranging from stylish two- and three-bedroom terraced homes to prestigious four- and five-bedroom detached homes. The village-style development lies within the Froyle Conservation Area, so the characterful design carefully echoes Hampshire’s traditional rural architecture with an emphasis on red brick and plain clay tiles. Prices extend to £1.15million. The select collection features at its heart the sensitive refurbishment of Burnham House into homes. There will also be a local shop and a series of green open spaces, including a large meadow at the south of the site. The Froyle Park show home is an impressive five-bedroom detached house, complete with wood-burner and a cottagelike character. The timber-clad, oak-beam exterior shows off the traditional, rural atmosphere of the development. Upper Froyle itself is a quintessentially English country village, steeped in history and surrounded by stunning Hampshire countryside. To the north lies Basingstoke and Reading, with shopping and dining options; to the south is the glorious South Downs National Park. The homes are likely to attract intense interest from buyers thanks to their quality and location, with immediate access to the A31 and proximity to Alton train station with direct services to London Waterloo in just under an hour and 10 minutes.

To find our more and to register your interest, call 0844 543 0717.

To find our more and to register your interest, call 0844 644 9842.

Countryside charm, superior specification

Linden Homes could be currently building your perfect new home in Surrey, Sussex or Hampshire. Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find our brand new homes are not only energy efficient, but they come with an NHBC warranty and in a range of designs and finishes to suit any taste.

CRANLEIGH

UPPER FROYLE

FELBRIDGE

0844 543 0717

0844 644 9842

0844 488 1671

Swallowhurst, Bookhurst Road GU6 7DP 5 & 6 bedroom detached homes from £1.575M lindenhomes.co.uk/swallowhurst

Froyle Park, Ryebridge Lane, Hampshire GU34 4LA 3, 4 & 5 bedroom homes from £489,000 to £1.15M lindenhomes.co.uk/froylepark

Heath Wood, Crawley Down Road RH19 2PS 5 bedroom detached homes from £1.25M lindenhomes.co.uk/heathwood

Photograph shows a typical Linden home. Interior may include optional extras and upgrades available at additional cost. Details and prices correct at time of going to press.

PHASE II NOW OPEN DONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T MISS OUT - VISIT US TODAY

A SELECT DEVELOPMENT OF 1, 2, 3 & 4 BEDROOM HOMES WOODPECKER CRESCENT, BURGESS HILL, WEST SUSSEX RH15 9XY

0333 321 8903

thecoppice@croudacehomes.co.uk

The Ashurst, 4 Bedroom Home

The Clayton, 4 Bedroom Home

A SELECT DEVELOPMENT OF 3, 4 & 5 BEDROOM HOMES CUCKFIELD ROAD, HURSTPIERPOINT, WEST SUSSEX BN6 9SD

0333 321 8656

chalkersvale@croudacehomes.co.uk All imagery is illustrative and may vary from shown. *Available incentives are subject to reservation criteria, scheme approval and restrictions (including the Government Help to Buy scheme) and can be development specific, please ask our Sales Consultants for more information.

HELP TO BUY SCHEME AVAILABLE*

sussex

Find your new home at Whathouse.com

Kitchen confidential

We talk to Mark Friend-James, proprietor of Sussex-based Rightside Kitchens

our years on from founding his own company, Mark Friend-James is now at the helm of a successful outfit providing a full kitchen consultancy, design and fitting service from its base just outside Findon in West Sussex, at the foot of the South Downs. Rightside Kitchens (RKL) undertakes a wide range of projects, from individual kitchen refurbishments to providing and installing large numbers of kitchens on new build developments for major housebuilders. “I set myself the target to be available to both the trade and retail industry,” explains Friend-James. “I am happy doing a single property and have set the business up so that larger sites are easily managed too.” Starting on the shop floor of a large kitchen manufacturer at the age of 18, Friend-James has worked in all aspects

of the industry, gaining experience on projects around the UK. These years of watching and learning eventually led to the conception of his own company. Friend-James is personally involved at each stage of every project, from initial design meetings right through to when the purchaser moves in. “At every point – design, order, manufacture, delivery, arranging subcontractors and installation – the customer can feel confident that my involvement is always in the fore with each project,” he says. It is the personal involvement of Friend-James himself – with some 25 years of experience in the industry before setting up RKL – that he believes his customers really value. “I like to make the customer feel important, whether they are a retail client or trade, one kitchen or 10,” he says. “I also wanted to be on hand over the phone rather than simply

hiding behind emails – that is so commonplace! I basically like to be seen on my sites; I want my clients to be able to approach me and have the confidence that the jobs are being run from the frontline back.” His breadth of contacts also means he can supply anything that his much larger national-brand competitors can, with prices kept low due to his carefully controlled overheads. “Many companies like to bamboozle with huge savings. I simply do the design give them the price and let each client decide which they feel more comfortable with.” Does he have one key bit of advice for prospective customers? “The best rule of thumb is ‘don’t let your heart rule your head’. Sometimes when you meet a client they want everything and the shock when they get a £25k quote when their budget is £15k is evident. I will always help them understand this and give good honest advice to go with design ideas.”

Friend-James’ adventurous spirit (he’s pictured here on a mission to Kilimanjaro) means he’s not resting on his laurels and he has ambitions

The anticipation. The planning. The completion. The elation. Your kitchen. Your adventure. Every aspect of Rightside Kitchens service is focused on you.

We have a superb range of contemporary and traditional kitchens to choose from. Our mission is to understand what you require and create a design that works for you.

Your taste. Your lifestyle. Your budget. Call Rightside to start your adventure today......... Head office: 01903 872704 Email: mark@rightsidekitchens.co.uk www.rightsidekitchens.co.uk

Exciting designs and installation tailored to your needs

to grow his business further while retaining the level of personal service that he believes differentiates Rightside from the competition. His passion for the outdoors helps generate ideas – energy that is required on a daily basis. He is now undertaking projects that require full property refurbishments, with the help of his expert team of specialist contractors, and its Sussex

base is not constraining RKL from taking on projects across the UK. The future certainly looks bright for FriendJames and his growing company. RKL’s re-vamped website (www. rightsidekitchens.co.uk) launches in February 2015. To find out more about Rightside Kitchens, contact Mark at mark@rightsidekitchens. co.uk; 01903 872704, 07594 605922

sussex

Find your new home at Whathouse.com

South Downs 3

Brighton Station

Location: Immediately west of Brighton Station. Getting around: 20 minute walk to the seafront, 10-15 minutes to the city centre. Housing: White stucco Georgian houses make up the Clifton Conservation Area. Lots of Victorian cottages and three-bedroom properties here too. What does it feel like? Village feel with a city buzz -fast becoming the Chelsea of Brighton. Schools: Primary: St Paul’s, St Mary Magdalen, Davigdor; Secondary:

Brighton estate agency Brand Vaughan takes us around the city and gives us the lowdown on some of the best spots to purchase a property. Contact: www.brandvaughan.co.uk; 01273 683111

Cardinal Newman, Blatchington Mill; Private: Lancing College at Mowden, Brighton & Hove High School, Brighton College

Victorian and Edwardian properties towards Preston Park, and post-1930 detached homes and chalet-style bungalows west of Surrenden Road.

2. Preston Park and Fiveways

What does it feel like? Popular with families due to the local park and schools, and commuters because of the excellent travel links.

Location: Preston Park is immediately north of the city centre, while Fiveways is up the hill to the east. Getting around: Five minute drive to the city centre and great rail connections to London. Frequent buses and easy access to the A23 and A27. Housing: Victorian three- and four-bedroom terraced homes. Larger

Schools: Primary: St Bernadette’s, Balfour Junior, Hertford Infant; Secondary: Dorothy Stringer, Varndean, Patcham High

3. Queens Park and Hanover Location: Queens Park is located between the Royal Sussex County

Getting around: 20 minute walk to the city centre, 5-10 minutes to the sea. 5 minute drive to the Marina and South Downs. Housing: White stucco Georgian Terraces in Sussex Square, Lewes Crescent and Royal Crescent. Marine Parade features some of the finest seafront architecture in the UK.

1 3

righton has emerged as a property hotspot in recent years, and the latest round of predictions for 2015 suggest the city could enjoy some of the best price appreciation in the UK in the next few years. Here, the award-winning

1. Seven Dials and Clifton

Location: East of Brighton Pier.

with Brand Vaughan

4. Kemp Town

Preston Park Station

Property map: Brighton

4 5 Hospital and Queens Park Road, while Hanover is west of this, down to Lewes Road. Housing: Queen’s Park is home to Victorian and Edwardian properties, while Hangover is known as ‘Muesli Mountain’ because of its popularity with Brighton’s leading environmental thinkers. What does it feel like? A nice family area with good local schools and a great park. Schools: Primary: Queen’s Park, St Luke’s, St John the Baptist, Elm Grove, Fairlight; Secondary: Dorothy Stringer, Varndean; Private: Brighton College, Roedean, Brighton Steiner

What does it feel like? A distinct village feel. Vintage clothing shops and delis alongside mainstay independent stores, pubs and restaurants. Schools: Primary: Queens Park, St Luke’s, St John the Baptist; Secondary: Dorothy Stringer, Varndean; Private: Brighton College, Roedean, Brighton Steiner

5. Roedean Location: North of Brighton Marina. Housing: Large detached homes, some with swimming pools. Mixture of heavily modernised and 1920’s housing. What does it feel like? Small upmarket area with great views of the sea and the South Downs. Schools: Primary: Whitehawk; Secondary: Longhill; Private: Brighton College, Roedean School for Girls, Brighton Steiner

52 interiors

To boldly go...

Find your new home at Whathouse.com 3

Print designs are larger than life and just as colourful. How adventurous are you, asks Richenda Oldham? 1

5 2

1. This geometric patterned fabric has a dramatic Scandinavian influenced feel; curtains made from Fjord Citrus, £41.74, www.handmadetomeasure.com; 2. Flowers that bloom at night have been reproduced in a dark floral pattern on this stunning Finnish birch sofa by Klaus Haapaniemi and Nikari, www.klaush.com; 3. Anna Jacobs’s Sipping Nectar collection features a distinctive hummingbird design in azure blue and citrus lime colours; lampshade £70, cushion £65, www.quiirk.co.uk; 4. Julia Brendel’s luxurious Africana fabric is based on colourful traditional African textiles, £38 per metre, www.juliabrendel.com; 5. Damask is a classic pattern that looks particularly good in black and charcoal grey; Mozart wallpaper, £10.99, www.arthouse.com

VINTAGE VINTAGE We are Brighton’s largest furniture shop selling 20th Century Vintage and Retro Furniture throughout London and the South East of England. Our furniture dates from the 50s, 60s and 70s. All our furniture is fully restored to it’s former glory plus we also offer furniture restoration.

VINTAGE CITY BRIGHTON

· · · · · ·

A family-run business Furniture on 2 Floors Vintage | Mid 20th Century | Retro Scandinavian | Italian | English Free local delivery Nationwide delivery also available

01273 600302 | info@vintagecitybrighton.com 20–22 Gloucester Place Brighton BN1 4AA Sideboards · Lounge Chairs · Coffee Tables · Sofas · Desks · Dining Tables and Chairs · Lighting

interiors 53

Find your new home at Whathouse.com

Clockwise from top left: Floor to ceiling painted wooden shelving complements bare brick walls perfectly, www.anothercountry.com Leather chairs and a functional rustic wood/metal desk, which doubles up as a breakfast table, www.barkerandstonehouse.co.uk Reclaimed wood eight-seater dining table with metal base, £949, www.westelm.com Industrial style metal wall unit, £110, www.vincentandbarn.co.uk This fisherman pendant light will provide good lighting in an open plan loft, £69.99, www.my-furniture.co.uk Timeless sturdy design classic: industrial tubular chair, £86, www.vincentandbarn.co.uk

Close to the edge Industrial-style interiors are an urban variation of the natural trend. Richenda Oldham shows you how to create “warehouse style”.

he love affair that we have with industrial design just seems to grow and grow. There is something fascinating about the ‘warehouse look’, which encompasses cast-iron pillars, oversized windows and brick walls. It’s cool and edgy with not a fluffy cushion in sight. It’s about honesty and good design with clean lines. It’s okay to go with mass-produced items, as long as they are quality items that offer functionality as well as form. Character is at the forefront

of this trend for sure, which actually encourages revealing what most people do their best to conceal – namely piping, ducts, raw plaster, exposed bricks and even rusty metal. Certainly as far as 2015 trends go, the industrial interior has a particular affinity with the ‘reconnect with nature’ approach. Neutral colours, utilitarian objects, metal and wood surfaces are key elements that can either be used together for the complete warehouse look, or singly in modern homes, which suit stainless steel surfaces, metal light fixtures and vintage furniture.

Industrial style gives owners of warehouses and other types of period properties the chance to strip their homes back to a raw, original state. This leaves original construction features exposed, showing how the building was put together, which makes for a deliberately unfinished appearance.

COLOURS Enhance the metallic feel through use of colours such as grey. There are so many marvellous shades to choose from darker tones of gunmetal and anthracite to silvery white or pearly grey. Earthen

hues, plus neutral tones will add depth and dimension, as well as providing a complementary backdrop to all that wood and metal. The marine-inspired shades of grey-blue have a fluid quality that offers a sense of movement. Look out for the deeper shades of teal and sapphire, as well as bright blue such as cobalt, which really lifts a room.

FURNITURE Vintage furniture and accessories are a must if you are to create a successful industrial interior. There are plenty of utilitarian pieces to choose from,

which are genuine old pieces from old factories, schools, offices and even laboratories. Battered leather chairs and sofas, sideboards, chests and cupboards made from mismatched recycled woods are perfect. For storage, floor-to-ceiling open shelving is striking and adds structure and definition to a room, while metal trunks, boxes and wood or metal apothecary chests and drawers are a must. Look out for industrial design laboratory stools or wood and metal swivel chairs, which are just right for this informal, eclectic interior style.

54 interiors 1

Find your new home at Whathouse.com

Colour your world What are the hot colour trends for 2015? Richenda Oldham takes a look at the different colour stories for the new year.

F 2

a ncy a delicious, fullbodied, naturally robust red? Sophisticated, yet with hints of rich, welcoming earthiness? Sadly, for those of you about to reach for a corkscrew, we’re not reviewing fine wines here. This is all about the all-important, life-defining Pantone colour of the year for 2015, Marsala 18-1438, which happens to take its name from a fortified wine. As the foundation colour for spring

and summer, Marsala is a wonderfully versatile colour, which you will find translated in darker and lighter tones from rich burgundy to dusky dark pink. It works spectacularly well with many of the 2015 colours, but especially Classic Blue and Sandstone. If you hadn’t guessed it already, the overriding theme for this year’s colour trends is the natural world and a return to softer, cooler shades that leave artificiality far behind. There’s a touch of retrospective with a celebration of

retro, folklore and floral art, together with tropical warmth. Many of these colours are a celebration of quietness, contemplation and taking the time to “zone out” from the hectic pace of life and the technology that constantly surrounds us. Eclectic is the buzz word that describes this mixture of time periods, texture and colour, which moves away from the moody darker tones of 2014 into a more personalised zone.

COOL BLUES

Woodbine – a yellowish green with a tropical feel that evokes palm trees and foliage. Team it with Lavender Herb or Titanium.

appeal. Team it with Toasted Almond. Lucite Green – a minty, soothing colour that is reassuringly old fashioned and dreamlike. Team it with Classic Blue and Scuba Blue.

Classic Blue – calm, confident and

harmonious, this anchor shade is a strong interiors asset. Team it with Sandstone or Marsala. Dusk Blue – taking its inspiration from the sky, this is the favourite shade for men (apparently). Team it with Glacier Gray or Treetop. Scuba Blue – a playful and energetic turquoise, reminiscent of a tropical ocean. Team with Classic Blue or Lucite Green.

STRONGER GREENS

Treetop – a fertile green that can

be used a background shade. Team it with Glacier Gray or Dusk Blue

NATURAL WARMTH Toasted Almond – neutral and organic, this is the perfect shade for the summer. Team it with Lavender Herb. Sandstone – a reliable, rugged neutral and a good balance for brighter hues. Team it with Marsala or Classic Blue.

NOSTALGIC

PERFECTLY NEUTRAL Glacier Gray – An effortlessly relaxing colour that is flattering and complementary. Team it with Dusk Blue or Treetop. Titanium – a strong masculine colour with classic appeal. Team it with Lavender Herb or Woodbine.

Lavender Herb – a beautifully distinctive shade with a special 1. Pantone’s colour of the year, Marsala looks fabulous in this Arts & Crafts Kitchen, www.bettaliving.co.uk 2. Choose a harmonious green shade as a soothing background, www.prideandjoy.me

3. Pale aqua evokes a sunny, relaxed feeling of nostalgia, www.hillarys.co.uk 4. Shades of grey work well for this period setting from Downton Abbey, www.mylands.co.uk 5. Blocks of colour using a mixture of 2015 shades, www.bettaliving.co.uk

HE GOOD NEWS is that limescale can be permanently removed from your home quickly and easily, using a system that can pay for itself in the first 18 months. After that, the significant savings are yours to keep... year after year! A whole-house Gold Series Water Softener System from EWT provides real cost savings in terms of service, maintenance and replacement of water heaters, dishwashers, washing machines and showers, and also extends their life expectancy. SAVE MONEY, TIME AND WATER! Independent research on the benefits of EWT’s Gold Series System shows it can pay for itself in a matter of months. A lifetime of softened water will help you save time, water and money – up to £500 annually on detergents, heating and appliances

The cost of limescale damage on your home appliances can be huge, not to mention the effects on your family’s wellbeing. Take advantage of this Exclusive Offer from EWT to remove limescale from your home...

E 60 OF UR AG £7RTHS IN OPACK WOING SIVE V S SA MA W NE

ID YOU KNOW that each year, in a hard water area, the average family home will use water containing 154lbs (70kg) of scale. If left unchecked, this mountain of limescale can cause serious – and expensive damage to your home plumbing and appliances, kitchen and bathroom fittings too. The Carbon Trust estimate that just 1mm of limescale in water pipes can increase energy consumption by 7%. With utility bills set to rise for the foreseeable future, this represents a significant cost to the average family home. Your household plumbing becomes increasingly inefficient, which makes heating your water extremely expensive. For example, a boiler with just 5mm of scale takes an extra 4 hours to supply the average home’s hot water – 90 minutes is all it should take! And, of course, this limescale finds its way into your household appliances too. Just take a look into most kettles and the evidence is there for all to see. The furred up heating element, the heavily stained inside and the nasty flakes of scale which find their way into your morning cuppa. Yes, you can buy a new kettle for less than a tenner, but washing machines and dishwashers are much more expensive to replace. Limescale build-up reduces the lifespan of the appliance and increases the likelihood of a breakdown. And who couldn’t do without the expense of calling out a plumber these days? Even if you ignore the hidden dangers lurking in your water system, physical evidence of limescale damage is all too evident throughout your home. In the kitchen, taps, tiles and stainless steel surfaces all bear the hallmarks of limescale damage. Evidence can be found on your pots and pans and, unless your dishwasher has just been installed, you will find tell tale water spots and stains on justwashed glasses and cutlery too. In bathrooms and WCs, toilets, taps and tiles are dulled with scale damage, and the once-sparkling sink and shiny shower enclosure are almost impossible to keep clean for any length of time. Even freshly washed clothes feel rough to the touch, and tiny scale particles can contribute to incidences of dry, irritating skin for yourself and family members. New home builders and renovation companies are waking up to the damage limescale can cause, and the cost implications of leaving it unchecked. What’s the point in investing in that sparkly new kitchen or bathroom, only to see the shine come off within months, thanks to the build-up of limescale.

SAVE MONEY WHEN YOU PROTECT YOUR HOME & YOUR APPLIANCES FROM

Limescale build-up in washing machines and dishwashers significantly increases running costs and reduces the life expectancy of these costly kitchen appliances

THE HIDDEN DANGERS OF

LIMESCALE

HOW MUCH IS LIMESCALE COSTING YOU? Removing limescale from your cylinder can cut the cost of heating your water by 25%. Kitchen appliances operate more efficiently and last longer without maintenance. Just 1mm of limescale on pipes can increase energy consumption by over 7%, adding hundreds of pounds to the average home’s

SAVE — UP TO —

£500 IN YOUR HOME EVERY YEAR WITH EWT

(depending on usage) – by installing a whole-house Gold Series System. MAY HELP PROTECT SENSITIVE SKIN Whilst there is no hard and fast scientific

proof that hard water irritates soft, sensitive skin, with the EWT System, clothes come out of your washing machine softer, towels aren’t as hard and don’t irritate soft sensitive skin as much.

INDEPENDENT STUDY: “Softeners are among ‘very best’ household energy savers – ‘green benefits’ to water heaters, appliances and showerheads” LISLE, Illinois—EWT Water Softeners can save significant amounts of money and energy in the home, a major new study by the independent Battelle Institute has revealed. Softeners help preserve the efficiency of water heaters and major appliances, and keep showers and taps unclogged, the report found. In the study, dishwashers and washing machines were operated for 30 days and 240 completed wash cycles on soft and hard water sources. The units using soft water were almost completely free of any water scale build-up. Units using hard water showed the need for deliming and cleaning due to the build-up of scale and deposits.

HUGE PACKAGE DEAL

GOLD SERIES Limescale Elimination System from EWT

SPARKLING CLEAN BATHROOMS, TAPS, TILES AND FLOORS Experience hassle-free bathroom cleaning without the need for endless scrubbing. How? Your EWT Gold Series System converts hard water into soft, making dirt and grime wash away easily. With EWT’s Gold Series System you can cut household cleaning time by up to 50%, giving you soft water and sparkling clean bathrooms and floors in half the time! MORE POWER IN YOUR SHOWER An EWT Gold Series System can also bring your shower back to life! No more clogged showerheads, no more ugly limescale scum on your shower door – just a powerful, invigorating shower experience every time.

EWT

PACKAGE DEAL

Despite moving into a brand new home, the Desai Family soon had a leaking tap in their bathroom. “After seeing how quickly limescale was building up on the outside of that tap, I could only imagine what it was doing to our new washing machine, heating system and shower. We called EWT to ask about their Gold Series system, which they said would remove limescale from our water forever! There was never any pressure from the adviser, and he made sure I understood everything – I had a lot of questions! I can now say I made the right choice with my EWT system. There is no more limescale in our home, cleaning is much easier – especially in the kitchen and bathroom – and I’m confident that I am protecting my appliances and boilers from unnecessary damage from hard water and limescale.” HOT WATER COSTS LESS Better still, you can save up to 30% or more on hot water costs – your usage of limescale removal products will also tumble when you install an EWT system. Combined with reduced maintenance costs, this represents a smart investment for you, your home and your wallet ... for years to come! In fact, you can start saving right away with this INCREDIBLE OFFER from EW Technologies. An EWT engineer can install a Gold Series ‘whole-house’ system in under 3 hours for just £575 (inc VAT – was £999). Installation is FREE (normally £140) and this offer includes an G1 Drinking Water System (normally £120) for crisp clear drinking water straight from your tap! That’s £260 of extra value, yours FREE when you call today! And that’s not all... EWT guarantee that, if you find a better quality system for less, they will give you back three times the difference! Call EWT on 0203 199 5042 now or visit www.ewtechnologies.co.uk

£760 WORTH OF SAVINGS – ORDER NOW!

£1259 WORTH OF VALUE

YOURS FOR ONLY £575 YOUR PACKAGE INCLUDES:

ONE FAMILY’S STORY

✓ EWT Gold Range Water Softener ✓ EWT G1 filter system with stylish tap upgrade ✓ EWT professional installation ✓ EWT hardness test kit ✓ EWT 15 years warranty ✓ EWT ultimate customer experience ✓ 30 day money back guarantee ✓ Online video

THIS PACKAGE OFFER IS LIMITED TO THE FIRST 50 CALLERS

CALL NOW 0203 199 5042 Alternatively, text: ‘EWT ORDER NOW & POSTCODE’ to 60066 Or discover even more online at

www.ewtechnologies.co.uk EWT, 11 Viewpoint, Boxley Rd, Maidstone, Kent, ME14 2DZ. See www.ewtechnologies.co.uk/how-much-can-a-water-softener-save-me for more details. Savings depend on usage. The EWT water softener system needs softener salt, at additional cost, approx 1 bag every 8 weeks based on family of 4.