HOUSE & HOME

LIFE AFTER LOCKDOWN

Local award-winning craftsman STEPHEN GRAVER reflects on the changing requirements of our homes post-lockdown...

The clocks have gone forward, the days are getting longer and there really does seem to be light appearing at the end of the long tunnel we’ve all been in for the last 12 months.

Coming out of the fog brings with it an opportunity to think about what the future brings and what good habits we’ve been forced into will come with us and which bad ones we can get rid of. Taking pleasure in the simpler things in life and gratitude for what we normally take for granted have been very prominent. The space around us, textures, colours, light, a view from a window, the ability to sit together as a family, a space we can all retreat to, an outside space we can breathe, a plot to see flowers growing. All what ordinarily might have seemed

"Many large businesses are now considering working from home as the key to happier staff"

Stephen Graver's trademark is exceptional quality design driven by functionality and attention to detail

run of the mill, now magnified in importance.

It’s not surprising that once the crisis is finally over, most (57%) of those who were working before the outbreak and who intend to stay part of the workforce say they want to be able to continue working from home. (YouGov) So it becomes even more important to focus on making home the best use of space you can achieve to suit all your needs, for work and play.

Based in the very pretty village of Steeple Ashton, Stephen Graver has seen a change in how receptive clients are at using the space available to them in more innovative and exciting ways once they start to work with his team of expert craftsmen in their award -winning studio and showroom.

Stephen Graver’s trademark is exceptional quality design and delivery of outstanding interior projects. From handmade kitchens, bathrooms of distinction, awe-inspiring garden rooms that merge the inside and outside of your space, beautiful bespoke home offices to full home renovations. Every project is underpinned by outstanding craftsmanship from conception to completion and backed by exceptional customer service that has kept clients returning again and again for over 30 years.

The majority of their clients are from word of mouth recommendation and a visit to their unique studio makes it clear to see why.

Many large businesses are now considering working from home as the key to happier staff and the need for multifunctionality grows within our homes, owners are really taking time to focus on getting the best out of their living space. We’ve seen a growing trend in lockdown and searches on Houzz for garden offices rose by 80%.

Last year’s warmest spring on record also saw demand for homes with balconies and gardens or rooftop spaces becoming outdoor havens. Let’s hope this Easter brings more of the sunshine back and good memories can be made again.

• stephengraver.com

We are learning the importance of ensuring our homes really meet our needs

Demand for garden offices has soared