Tag: new house

Planning for the future – Local Development Plans

In the last part of our series of land blogs, we’re going to look at how Local Development Plans and planners are shaping our communities and building the communities of the future.

Local Development Plans guide development for councils and local authorities, and map out an area’s long-term future. They aim to deliver growth to where it is needed and help to demonstrate the positive impacts development can have on local communities. In the last part of our series of land blogs, we’re going to look at how Local Development Plans and planners are shaping our communities and building the communities of the future.

Space for expansion through local development plans

Local Development Plans, or Local Plans, are implemented by councils to demonstrate how areas – from cities and towns, or rural villages – will be permitted to be developed. They provide guidance on where new houses can be built and which areas of land can be built on. Local plans take a number of factors into account – such as local need for new housing, a need for growth, opportunities for expansion, and the availability of spaces to develop. For Cheshire West and Chester for example, ‘in line with legislation (‘15C Levelling Up and Regeneration Act’), Local Plans will set out the amount, type and location of – and timetable for – development. The Local Plan will also include other policies in relation to the use or development of land including infrastructure requirements.’

Meeting our needs

This approach ensures that developments are not permitted where they will place an undue burden on infrastructure – this is particularly true of aspects such as traffic on roads, but also things like utility capability, such as sewerage and water supply, or broadband coverage. Feasibility studies and surveys will have to be carried out, so that every consideration is taken in how and where land is developed. In this way, villages can be expanded, as their county boundaries grow and populations rise.

In recent years we’ve seen some building in rural areas, to meet an increased demand for housing outside urban environments. The rise in remote working and hybrid working, post-pandemic have had some impact on this. New policies have been developed to account for these changes and also to tailor developments to meet modern needs. Infrastructure has been key to this, but it also feeds into the new government’s pledge to build. So Local Plans are shaping our villages and towns and our futures in all kinds of positive ways.

Suitability and sustainability

The suitability of land for development is obviously a key factor in which locations are opened up for purchase, planning and building. In urban areas, aspects such as infrastructure will be much easier to integrate and shape around developments. But rural developments can bring with them a whole range of challenges and hurdles that will need to be navigated.

The condition of the land is one of the most obvious – whether the land is prone to flooding, for example. This may mean that work will have to be carried out to make the land safe, with flood defences or drainage diversions for instance. Access and infrastructure can also be challenges that need surmounting, but with careful work and planning – new access entrances, wider infrastructure improvements – these can be solved.     

Councils have information regarding planning policy available on their website – Cheshire West and Chester’s is accessible here – and include a wide range of planning information, such as neighbourhood planning, a Brownfield land register, and self-build and custom house building register, and a design code. Aspects such as sustainability are also having to be taken into consideration too, so that the newest developments maximise the most modern thinking and technology, both in their construction and their lifetime.      

If you own land, in Cheshire or close by, that you think might be suitable for development, please get in touch with us.

On your doorstep – the importance of a site’s location

As an integral part of its housing strategy, the new government has made building a priority. We’ve looked at how the building planning process is changing, to encourage more houses to be built, and more permissions to be granted. One of the key issues is the location, where these new homes will be sited.

It’s important that new housing developments feel part of their local area, enhancing both the environment and the community, and making them attractive places to live. Making the most efficient use of the land available is also important, so in this blog we’re going to look at the positive impact new properties can have on communities in all kinds of ways.

Building for convenience and community

When planners are considering new development applications, one of the things they look at is the impact it will have on the area. Ideally, new properties should have readily available amenities nearby. This can be shops, such as a general store or newsagent, but can also be schools and easy access to a doctor’s surgery. Having these offerings and services on your doorstep will make a big difference to how attractive new developments are to potential buyers. The approval of new housing development also encourage investment into an area and amenities such as community hubs and cafes can spring up as a result.

Connectivity is another aspect to look at when exploring sites for new homes. The road network, particularly in rural areas, was originally designed for less traffic that it takes nowadays. But it can usually cope with a degree of development, as it is often only certain times of day – the rush hour periods and school run for example – where roads can sometimes become congested. Improvements to roads can often be incorporated into new developments, with junction upgrades or pedestrian crossings, for example. Aspects such as drainage and sewer output will also have to be taken into account, as more houses will increase the capacity required.  

Staying connected

Being on a bus route or near a railway station are also positives when looking at siting new developments. A good bus or train route can make up for a lack of amenities on your doorstep. It’s also essential for residents who don’t drive or own their own car, schoolchildren or elderly people for whom services close by are so important. Planners have to take all these factors into account, so that developments improve communities.

A location designed for living

The types of properties included in developments should reflect community needs and demand. High-quality developers strive to make the most of the acreage available, so efficient and imaginative design is an essential part of their developments. The designs should also match the needs of the area too. For our developments, we design homes that people fall in love with and want to live in. We mix traditional styles with modern materials and knowhow, to create our take on country living of the highest quality.

At CB Homes, we transfer that ethos into all of our properties, be they rural, urban or suburban. We design properties that make the maximum use of the land available.

When it comes to developments, the possibilities are endless. Sometimes we are designing large family-style detached properties, but often on multiple-property developments, mews-style or semi-detached dwellings make more sense – both from a building perspective (shared walls, adjoining roofs, less materials, uniform design) and for buyer appeal too (affordability, sense of community, attractiveness of design).

We have also incorporated apartments in some of our developments where ground space is often at a premium. It’s also important to take into account access and mobility issues – single-level living areas, for example, for residents with accessibility challenges, such as the elderly, infirm or people with disabilities. It’s about getting the balance right between building a house and making a home, and many factors feed into the ideal plot’s location.

If you own land, in Cheshire or close by, that you think might be suitable for development, please contact us today.

Ettley Grove in Calveley: taking a closer look at the houses on our new development

Our new development in the village of Calveley consists of just eight beautiful houses. Whatever the size of your household, you will find something to suit you at Ettley Grove, from a four bedroom executive family home to a compact mews house.

Our new development in the village of Calveley consists of just eight beautiful houses. Whatever the size of your household, you will find something to suit you at Ettley Grove, from a four bedroom executive family home to a compact mews house. Each house has been individually designed, with luxury touches in every room. Each house name has associations with trees to reflect the rural surroundings and the number of mature trees bordering the development.

The Adair: a four bedroom luxury home

Found in a commanding position in a corner plot, the attractive timber frame porch leads into the spacious entrance hall of the Adair. The downstairs living place is open plan. A beautiful kitchen is complemented by a generous dining/ living area and lounge. A separate study will be particularly convenient for anyone wishing to work from home. Another practical touch for busy family life is the handy utility/ boot room. A feature oak staircase with oak handrails takes you upstairs to the four bedrooms, two of which are ensuite, along with a family bathroom. Adair, means oak tree, which is the perfect name for this house with its delightful garden, with mature trees all around. The outdoor space, along with a double garage makes this a perfect family home.

The Idra: a four bedroom luxury home

The Idra (meaning fig tree), as with every house at Ettley Grove, combines traditional farmhouse design features, such as delightful cottage style doors, with the best of modern design too. The Idra is a very spacious and stunning home. Downstairs there are two lounges, in addition to an open plan living space combining a kitchen, dining and seating area. Upstairs, the four bedrooms include the master suite which has an ensuite and its own dressing room. One of the other three bedrooms is also ensuite.

The Ayla: a four bedroom luxury home

Again with four bedrooms, the Ayla (which means oak) is thoughtfully designed for busy family life. The master bedroom is ensuite and also benefits from the luxury of a separate dressing room. One of the other three bedrooms is also ensuite and there is a family bathroom too. On the ground floor, the open plan living space of a kitchen/ dining area is perfect for enjoying cooking and entertaining. The lounge leads directly into the rear garden and there is also a separate study for when a peaceful retreat is called for. Like the Adair, the gardens are extensive and as well as a double garage, there is plenty of space for car parking too.

The Oren: a four bedroom luxury home

The Oren, meaning a pine or ash tree, is another Ettley Grove home that benefits from the generous space offered by a corner plot. Double doors lead from the stunning open plan living space running across the back of the house into a good-sized rear garden. Upstairs, the master bedroom has a separate dressing room as well as an ensuite. One of the other three bedrooms is also ensuite.

The Llana: a four bedroom luxury home

This double fronted house, the Llana, which means oak tree, has a timber frame porch leading into the entrance hall. The interior is stylishly designed throughout. Two bedrooms are ensuite. Downstairs, open plan design in the kitchen and dining space provides a wonderful living area. There is a separate lounge, complete with feature fireplace, and a study room, so useful for anyone looking for a space to be able to work without interruption. A practical utility/ boot room is also a great touch for a busy family.

The Elowen: a three bedroom luxury home

The Elowen, named after the Cornish word for Elm, is the only three bedroom property at Ettley Grove enjoys a delightful position as an end-mews property. Upstairs you will find three spacious bedrooms, a family bathroom and a very practical storage area. Downstairs, a good-sized lounge and an open plan kitchen/ dining area provides great living space, leading out to a large back garden which can be reached through double doors.

The Kirrily and the Gwydion: two bedroom luxury homes

These two houses are both very attractive mews-style homes. Whether you are looking to buy your first home or looking to downsize into something a little smaller than your current home, both these houses are beautifully designed to suit your needs.

Both the Gwydion (meaning ‘born of trees’) and the Kirrily (meaning ‘green tree’) have two bedrooms and a generous bathroom upstairs. The open plan living space downstairs feels wonderfully spacious. The practical touches of a large storage space upstairs and a utility room and downstairs WC will be greatly appreciated by the future householders.

We are currently taking reservations for these beautiful homes. Prices start at £275,000. To find out more, please get in touch with our sales executive Helen today at sales@cbhomes.co.uk.

The lie of the land – what types of land can you build on?

An overview of the different types of land you can build on

Continuing our series of blogs exploring land acquisition, we’re now looking at the different types of land you can build on: Brownfield, Greenfield and Grey belt.

Location is key to what we’re looking for in land for development. We want something that will appeal to our clients and prospective buyers, and availability is important too.

Across England, there are several types of protected land where building new homes is restricted. These include Green belt, designated greenspace, national parks, Areas of Outstanding Beauty (AOB), Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and designated heritage assets.

In terms of defining what’s available, until recently there were two broad types of land that can be built on. Most people are familiar with the terms Greenfield and Brownfield, but thanks to the new government, there’s also a ‘grey’ area to discuss too – grey belt.

Protecting green space – What’s the difference between Greenfield and Green belt?

If you live in the countryside in the UK, on the edge of a village, or town or city, you probably live in an area defined as Greenfield or Green belt. Greenfield typically refers to land which has not been developed. The vast majority of land in England is Greenfield and in 2021/22, 46% of new homes were built on land designated Greenfield.

Greenfield is rural space that can be developed, as opposed to Green belt – this is the safety buffer between built-up towns and the countryside, and are protected areas. The ‘Green belt’ definition is a planning policy tool used by local councils and planning authorities. The aim of Green belt is to prevent so-called ‘urban sprawl’ – the add-ons to towns and suburbs, that spread into green spaces.

Land deemed Green belt is supposed to be protected from development – it is mostly used for agriculture. Green belt aims to protect natural or semi-natural environments, and also improve air quality in urban areas. In addition to urban parkland, it also ensures people living in towns and cities have access to the countryside. In 2021/22, of all new homes built in England, only 2.5% were built on Green belt land.

However, land defined as ‘Greenfield’ is green space where development is permitted. It is rural land that has never been built on, but can be. As of October 2022, Greenfield land accounted for 91% of land across England.

Reclaiming the land: What is Brownfield land?

In addition to Greenfield, another development option is Brownfield land. Brownfield is previously developed land that has been abandoned or is being underutilised.

These dormant sites are usually found in urban areas and have often had something built on them before. They are particularly useful in urban regeneration projects. The fact that the land has previously been used gives planners the perfect opportunity for redevelopment projects.

Building on Brownfield land can usually be a simple process, as planning permission will already be in place in some form – it is the extent of the development that will need to be assessed.

Another advantage is that services such as plumbing, wastewater, gas and electricity are likely to already be present at the site. Often however, there may be previous structures to be demolished and removed from the site. There may also be problems with contamination of the land. This can lead to costly clean-up operations, before any work can take place.

What are some examples of Brownfield sites?

Examples of post-industrial Brownfield sites include abandoned factories, warehouses or petrol stations. The presence of pollution or contamination may limit the extent of the land’s redevelopment.  There can also be underground hazards to contend with, and the land will have to be surveyed thoroughly – with an underground utilities survey, for instance – before any planning decisions can be made.

What is Grey belt?

The introduction of a ‘Grey belt’ category by the new government has added to the options for development. The government acknowledged that its housebuilding targets will require more than the Brownfield sites available, so the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) has introduced Grey belt.

Grey belt is a new classification of Greenfield land that can now be developed on, located in the Green belt. Grey belt land will usually be areas of Greenfield that are no longer of historical significance, usefulness or agriculturally productive. This will allow for an increase in housebuilding where it is most needed, as the stringent Green belt restrictions have meant development has been protected but stifled in some areas.

The ‘belt’ term here is a bit misleading, as this definition is not like Green belt, which is an encircling buffer around existing buildings. It is more like infill development, when areas of land between existing housing are released for development.

What are some examples of Grey belt land?

The sort of land targeted is poor-quality agricultural land that is not useful, car parks, wasteland, former quarries or vacant premises such as disused petrol stations, which often have a large footprint in terms of acreage and are also usually positioned well for road networks. Grey belt can also include leisure facilities like golf courses, caravan parks and camp sites.

What falls into the definition of Grey belt will be decided, as before, by Local Planning Authorities. When looking at potential sites, they will consider previously developed land first, before moving onto grey belt sites and then green belt sites as the last option. In this way, it is hoped that borderline cases can be developed. As Grey belt has often already been developed or partly developed, the potential for future building is much more likely. 

If you have an area of land, in Cheshire or close by, that you think might be suitable for development, please contact us today.

Our new development in Cheshire: total peace of mind when you buy from CB Homes

Our construction team is now busy on site at Ettley Grove. This is a very exciting stage of the project as we see our carefully drawn up plans start to come to life.

Ettley Grove is our very latest small and exclusive housing development, comprising just eight new country homes.

Ettley Grove, Cheshire – Launching Spring 2025

Our construction team is now busy on site at Ettley Grove. This is a very exciting stage of the project as we see our carefully drawn up plans start to come to life.

Ettley Grove is our very latest small and exclusive housing development. Comprising just eight new country homes, it is located in the Cheshire village of Calveley, which is situated between Nantwich and Tarporley.

As with all our developments, when you walk into Ettley Grove, it doesn’t have a housing ‘estate’ feel, as we always bring just the right amount of diversity into all the elements of the design of every house. Each has its own unique and distinct character. And this small development suits the picturesque rural setting of Calveley perfectly.

A new country home, perfect for everyone

Ettley Grove offers a range of styles and size of home, so whether you are a first time buyer looking for your first foray into home ownership, or you are looking to downsize from a bigger property, or you are seeking a large, family home, you are bound to find something to suit you and your lifestyle here.

Whether large or small, each property is being built to the absolute latest energy efficiency standards and you will find that the living spaces really have been optimised too, with even the smallest rooms in every house still feeling spacious and comfortable. Outdoor living has not been neglected either, with each property being provided with delightful outside spaces and plenty of room for parking.

Award-winning homes from CB Homes

Since we started building homes over 40 years ago, we have established an enviable reputation for our craftsmanship and build quality of our houses. As members of the Federation of Master Builders, and with the backing of the NHBC 10-year Buildmark Warranty, it is vitally important to us that every house we build is an example of the very best in construction. We have won a range of awards over the last forty years at a local, regional and national level which recognise our commitment to these very high standards.

Complete peace of mind when you buy a new home from CB Homes

As well as feeling confident about the quality of our new-build homes, you can also have complete peace of mind when it comes to our after sales service too. Our site manager will carefully inspect every single part of your house before completion of the sale. Before you take possession of the keys, they will walk all round the house with you to show you how everything works. As part of our official handover, you will be provided with a very useful homeowner manual too, with all the instructions, paperwork and warranties you need for all your appliances, heating, alarms etc, and tips on how to maintain your property in the best possible condition.

After we have given you the keys to your new home, if you have any queries regarding your house, even after the official snagging period is over, you can just get in touch with us. We are always just a phone call away and will be happy to help.

The first completion at Ettley Grove is due Spring  2025. Prices start from £275,000. To find out more and arrange a visit, please contact our main office on 01829 730244 or email enquiries@cbhomes.co.uk.

New build homes in Calveley, Cheshire – just launched!

Eight bespoke new build homes in this exclusive Cheshire development

We are delighted to introduce our very latest housing development, Ettley Grove. Located in Calveley, a little village situated between Nantwich and Tarporley, this small and exclusive development will comprise just eight new build homes.

Named after Ettley Hill, where Beeston Castle stands, which you can see from the site, Ettley Grove consists of a range of luxurious, traditionally styled Cheshire houses, offering two, three and four bedroom homes.

Luxury new build mews houses in Cheshire

From an impressive executive house, to a cosy mews property, whatever style of home you are looking for, you are sure to find something to suit you perfectly at Ettley Grove.

As is the case with all our building projects, we have chosen the location of this latest development very carefully. Calveley is a delightful place, with the best that Cheshire has to offer right on the doorstep. The popular market town of Nantwich and Tarporley, frequently voted as Cheshire’s best village, are in easy reach for all the amenities you could want. The larger village of Bunbury is also a very short drive away.

Historic Calveley has a picturesque setting, with beautiful rural surroundings and the Shropshire Union Canal running right past the village. Nearby Beeston Castle and its surrounds provide plenty of scope for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy walking, cycling and running.

Eight new build country homes

With names inspired by the mature trees which surround the Ettley Grove site, each of the stylish new build homes is a perfect combination of traditional, farmhouse-inspired features, with modern design touches throughout. There are four four-bedroom houses, one three bedroom house and two two-bedroom homes. 

New homes for country living in Calveley

The Idra, The Adair, The Ayla, The Llana and The Oren all have four bedrooms, two ensuite bathrooms and one generously-sized family bathroom. Downstairs, luxury modern open plan family living space opens into extensive gardens with plenty of parking provided, along with a double garage.

The Elowen, a pretty three-bedroom end mews property, has all the advantages of being a corner plot, with a lovely rear garden. The Kirrily and The Gwydion are both mews style houses, with great kerb appeal. They each have two bedrooms and a good-sized family bathroom, while downstairs, skilful design makes the most of the open plan space, providing a lounge, kitchen and dining area. A utility room and a WC complete the downstairs space.

Construction has now started on these eight new country homes, with first completion from Spring 2025. Prices start at £265,000. To find out more and arrange a visit, please contact our main office on 01829 730244 or email enquiries@cbhomes.co.uk.

Building a house to suit multi-generational living

Now that construction has started on site, our self-build clients visit it at the weekends, have meetings with the site team every six weeks and frequently chat with the project manager about progress of their new-build home.

Multi-generational homes in Cheshire

The build begins

Now that construction has started on site, Roselin and Martin like to visit their self build project in Weaverham at the weekends, as they are both very busy with work during the week. They have meetings with the site team every six weeks and frequently chat with the project manager about the progress of their new-build home.

One self-build house, building two kitchens

Roselin says that once work started she was really surprised by how spacious the plot seems, with more room for her garden than she was expecting, as the house is located in the centre of the plot. Now that the build is well on the way, the couple are getting excited for their new new-build home. Roselin really enjoys cooking, which is why she has something special planned for the kitchen. While most people enjoy planning to build just one kitchen, she is building two!

Roselin explains,

“I like to cook, a lot! And I especially enjoy traditional Indian cookery. With the design of our new house being for quite open plan living downstairs, I was a little worried about the very strong and spicy smells from the kitchen wafting through the whole house! The solution we have come to is to build two kitchens. One, which I will call my frying kitchen, can be closed off from the other. So I can cook to my heart’s content without any concerns. The main kitchen will be an island kitchen.”

Choosing kitchen designs for a new-build house

This design choice of two kitchens means that the couple will have double the fun of selecting kitchen colours and designs. Roselin has spent a lot of time already online, checking out different styles and they are both enjoying visiting kitchen showrooms to see what would work best for them.

Roselin says,

“I thought I had loads of time to choose my kitchen, but with a self-build, it’s not quite so simple as that. You have to think about your layout really early on in the process because the location of things like the hobs and the sink  in the kitchen, or the sanitaryware in the bathroom need to be planned for right away so the power supplies and wastewater pipes can be located in the right places! ”

Roselin’s advice for anyone building their own home is to do plenty of research into things like kitchens and bathrooms as early as you can. You won’t have to choose your finishes right away, but you do need to know what layout you want very early in the building process.

Best heating options for a new-build house

When it comes to the heating supply choice, that will have an impact on design features too. For example, as the couple have selected an air source heat pump and will have underfloor heating on the ground floor, they needed to know what their options were for the type of flooring they will need. They have opted for radiators on the upper floors as a more cost effective solution for this home, which means they have a wider range of options for the upstairs flooring.

While Roselin’s domain may be the kitchen, Martin is enjoying planning his study on one of the upper floors, as he loves to relax reading and is looking forward to having his own peaceful retreat for that.

The CB Homes team has been helpful when it comes to making choices, from small elements of kitchen design to much bigger things, like the staircase. The couple were grateful to be shown a whole selection of staircase photos, so they could choose their favourite style, which would work within the overall design. They have gone for a staircase that is slightly wider than usual so they were given a range of different options within their budget.

Talk to us to find out how we can help you build your own home. We can help you design it, secure planning approval and carry out the whole build with our complete turn key self-build package. 

CB Homes is an A1+ member of the National House Building Council (NHBC), registered builder with the Local Authority Building Control (LABC), as well as a member of the Federation of Master Builders.

Contact us to find out more.

Two stunning new build homes in the heart of Tarporley: The Motte and The Bailey ready to buy

We are delighted to announce that our two stunning two bedroom homes, The Motte and The Bailey, at our mixed residential and retail development at Blagg’s Court in Tarporley, are now complete and are available for viewing.

Tarporley New Build Homes

We are delighted to announce that our two stunning two bedroom homes, The Motte and The Bailey, at our mixed residential and retail development at Blagg’s Court in Tarporley, are now complete and are available for viewing.

Only two minutes’ drive from our own headquarters, these beautiful homes are located just off Tarporley’s historic high street, a stone’s throw from the famous Swan hotel, within the village’s conservation area and surrounded by listed buildings. Read more about the fascinating history of the site here and our architect’s designs for a contemporary feel in a listed building setting here.

A two bedroom new build home, perfectly designed for modern living in Tarporley

Plot 1, named The Motte, is now available for an asking price of £550,000. This two bedroom home is perfectly designed for modern living, making great use of natural light to enhance the spacious feeling throughout. The attractive outdoor amenity area provides space for car parking. The ground floor has a good-sized kitchen-dining area and a utility room, plus a family room and another reception room. The feature staircase leads up to a galleried landing, an ensuite master bedroom and a generously sized second bedroom, plus a family bathroom.

A luxurious, new build, two bedroom home, with elegant touches of design in every room

The second plot, known as The Bailey, is another luxurious two bedroom home, being marketed for an asking price of £530,000. The downstairs accommodation comprises a kitchen, a separate dining room and a spacious lounge. A useful utility room and WC lead off from the kitchen. Both bedrooms are ensuite, while the master bedroom includes a dressing room too. The practical outdoor space includes space for parking.

Ultimate peace of mind when you buy a CB Homes house

CB Homes is an A1+ member of the National House Building Council (NHBC), registered builder with the Local Authority Building Control (LABC), as well as a member of the Federation of Master Builders.

Each of our homes is backed by our unique and dedicated personalised approach to customer service. This ensures every CB Homes development delivers ultimate peace of mind to its new owner, long after we’ve handed you the keys.

To discover more and arrange a viewing of one of the two houses at Blagg’s Court, talk to Helen on 07400 062 349 or email sales@cbhomes.co.uk.

Timber frame project in Hoole: now complete

Viewed from the outside, anyone looking at this neo-Georgian house would not know that it is not a traditional brick and block construction.

Aesthetically, there is no major difference between a timber frame house and a traditional build.

We have expertise in both types so our clients can choose their preference and whichever is more suitable for a particular site.

Self-Build Timber Frame

Our self-build timber frame project in Chester city centre is now complete and ready for our clients to move in.

Choosing timber frame for construction

Viewed from the outside, anyone looking at this neo-Georgian house would not know that it is not a traditional brick and block construction. Aesthetically, there is no major difference between a timber frame house and a traditional build. We have expertise in both types so our clients can choose their preference and whichever is more suitable for a particular site.

With this project in Hoole, timber frame was the best choice as space around the site was so tight. It’s important to remember that a whole project from start to finish will take about the same length of time, regardless of the construction method. However, choosing timber frame here reduced the actual on-site construction period. This meant we did not need to make allowances for having scaffolding up for an extended period as we would have done with brick and block, and we did not need the same amount of space for storage of materials either. It also meant the structure was fully watertight in a week, a bonus with our unpredictable weather patterns!

A stylish house, with period features and contemporary touches

From the moment you step inside this lovely house, you are struck by the use of wood throughout, from the stunning flooring to the beautiful panelling on the walls, which was custom made by our joiner.

self build with panel flooring

These traditional period style features provide a striking contrast with the more contemporary touches, such as the modern ensuite off the master bedroom.

This contrast is also found in the attractive kitchen, which has a traditional style range and a practical Belfast sink with a modern breakfast bar and large American style fridge freezer.

The heritage shades of paint throughout create a sense of understated luxury in every room and timeless elegance too.

Outdoor living space

Bifold doors to the rear open from the open plan downstairs living space onto a spacious patio and the garden, with room to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Are you interested in building your own home? Talk to us about our complete turnkey self-build package, where we can help you design your perfect house, secure planning approval and carry out the whole build.

CB Homes is an A1+ member of the National House Building Council (NHBC), the leading home construction warranty and insurance provider for new and newly-converted homes in the UK. We are also a registered builder with the Local Authority Building Control (LABC), as well as a member of the Federation of Master Builders. Find out more about the protection and peace of mind this provides our customers here.

Essential gardening tasks for Spring and Summer

In our earlier blogs, we’ve looked at inside and outside your new-build home and what needs to be done to ensure it’s maintained to a high standard. Regularly maintaining your property will ensure that everything is kept in working order and operating to its best potential. This includes not just the components of the house –  the building materials, such as roof tiles and guttering, etc – but also the ‘mechanics’ of the home, such as the kitchen equipment and bathroom suites.

By carrying out regular maintenance, you are also protecting your investment for the future and ensuring that you get the most enjoyment out of living there while it is at its best.

outdoor garden space
CB Homes – outdoor garden space

Express yourself

We’ve mentioned the outside space at the house and any outbuildings associated with the property, but there is much more to the outdoors than the garage, patio and garden shed. What you can do with your outside space is only limited by space, budget and your imagination. New-build developments vary in shape and size, and provide the scope for you to express yourself.

If you have a generous garden, then the sky’s the limit in terms of scope and creativity. Unfortunately, the grander your plans the more work will need to be carried out all year around, to keep on top of tasks and ensure that the garden doesn’t become overgrown or overwhelming.

We finish our new-build projects to a very high standard and often the exterior landscaping will have been discussed beforehand. This will mean that there may already be garden features, such as lawns, borders and hedges, incorporated as part of the project’s construction. Because of the nature of the construction process, landscaping and exterior construction will be the last part of the construction to be carried out. This is usually due to access issues and the fact that the surrounding land will be needed to access the site and the building as it takes shape. As a result, the garden landscaping is the finishing touch to the project, a locale to set-off the completed building.

Seasonal changes in Spring and Summer

Spring is the time of new growth, as everything in the garden bursts to life. It is also the opportunity to make sure you are making the most of your garden and to concentrate on new plantings and features. This could mean installing a patio, building a wall or erecting a pergola. Spring is a great time to do this, before any of the plants begin to become too establish and in bloom, and so your garden and its new additions will look their best throughout the summer.  

As with any long-term project, breaking down maintenance jobs into bitesize chunks is a good way to stay on top of tasks all year around. Aspects like lawns and borders need attention at regular points in the year and are an ongoing project for keen (and not-so-keen) gardeners.

Spring is usually defined by lighter nights and a rise in temperatures. Keeping your flowerbeds weeded and topped up with mulch or fertiliser will give the plants there the best chance to grow. Planting bulbs now will ensure your beds will look great in the summer months. A good tip from gardening experts is to divide any perennial plants you have in your garden, as this is an easy way to multiply plants without having the expense of buying more. It’s a natural evolution that ensures that you increase the number of plants in your garden.

Clear the decks

It’s also worth checking any winter damage to paths, brickwork, concrete or hardstanding due to frost or water damage in Spring and Summer. Also you’ll need to scrub or wash any paths and parking areas, to remove any moss or debris from paths and other concreted or paved areas. Decking in particular needs methodical maintenance, both to mitigate against wear and tear, but also to keep it looking at its best.

The same is true of ornamental paths and brick sets, which will also require regular maintenance, in the same way anything aesthetically pleasing will require. Aspects such as ornamental edging to paths are part of the design and should be regularly cleaned. If you have a vegetable garden and grow your own veg over the Summer months, it’s also the time to plant some of the hardiest, like potatoes, radish and lettuce.

Once the frosts have passed, you can bed in other new plants too, like new trees and shrubs. These should be regularly watered – but not overwatered – if the soil and weather conditions require it, and also special fertiliser can be applied too. By the end of Spring, you’ll be deadheading Spring-flowering blooms, and  sowing Summer-friendly vegetables.

Best laid plans

Although you may have already cut back shrubs, hedges and trees in the autumn, to properly trim back their summer growth, they might need further pruning in the before birds begin to nest and the growth spurt towards summer gets underway. As well as cutting back any extended growth, you also need to make sure that any unsafe branches are made safe and are pruned back. If you haven’t had the chance to trim back hedges and other foliage in the garden in the autumn, then your Spring gardening binge will be a much larger proposition. Any fallen debris and leaves should also be cleaned up before summer. Leaves of course can be used to make mulch, as part of the Spring clean, and later be used on flowerbeds as nourishment.

Smaller gardens will obviously require a lot less seasonal maintenance and are generally simpler to keep in pristine condition. Urban gardens will require a different approach again – there’s often a lot of use made of decking and hardstanding, or even artificial grass, rather than natural lawns and turf. Artificial grass can be a great benefit for urban homes and is exceptionally low-maintenance. It can be rolled out over large areas and look very natural while providing the traditional splash of greenery a real lawn provides.

By carrying out these tasks in good time, you will ensure that your garden looks at its best over the Summer and is a pleasant, relaxing, rewarding space to spend your time in.       

CB Homes is an A1+ member of the National House Building Council (NHBC), registered builder with the Local Authority Building Control (LABC), as well as a member of the Federation of Master Builders.

Each of our homes is backed by our unique and dedicated personalised approach to customer service. This ensures every CB Homes development delivers ultimate peace of mind to its new owner, long after we’ve handed you the keys.

Contact CB Homes today to discuss your next move.

Award winning homes

6 times winners

13 times winners

8 times winners

2 Awards for best luxury home

Pride in the job award