Dream Home in the Cotswolds: Exploring the Process of a Couple Building Their Lifetime Sanctuary on a Plot
In the heart of the picturesque Cotswolds, a couple, Ian and Louise, have found their dream home. The build, managed by Border Oak with an independent project manager, is a testament to the benefits of timber frame self-build homes.
Despite a delay in the delivery of furniture due to the Covid lockdown, the couple was able to move into their new abode with limited belongings. The construction took 12 months to complete, with the builders' team, including the roofer, managed by the project manager from Border Oak.
The house, size 257m2 (including garage), is a detached new-build cottage, featuring an oak frame and Cotswold stone. To add vernacular authenticity, stonework from a local quarry was used for both the house and the patio wall.
One of the standout features of the house is its energy efficiency. The airtightness levels exceeded requirements, thanks in part to the naturally well-insulated timber frame. The windows, provided by Internorm, have timber frames and aluminium cladding on the outside, and are triple-glazed, requiring little or no maintenance.
The main bedroom boasts a majestic vaulted ceiling with exposed oak beams, while the downstairs space underwent a switch, creating a kitchen-diner that connects directly with the garden. This rearrangement was Ian's daughter's suggestion, as she pointed out that certain rooms were not being used.
The functionality of the new kitchen-diner is fantastic according to Ian, who also took advantage of his freetime during the lockdown to work on the surrounding land, adding a patio, stone wall, carport, and gravel driveway.
The house, located near Cirencester, was found through an estate agent. The original house plans were modified by Border Oak to create an oak frame self-build. The project manager reminded Ian about ordering materials and fittings on time to keep the build on schedule.
The benefits of choosing a timber frame for a self-build home are well-documented and can be generally applied to any timber frame project. These include speed of build, sustainability, energy efficiency, design flexibility, lightweight structure, weather resistance, cost savings, and minimal maintenance.
While specific details about Ian and Louise's Cotswolds cottage are not provided, the advantages align with the benefits generally associated with timber frame construction. Their self-build journey serves as a shining example of the potential of timber frame homes for creating a forever home.
- The bathroom of Ian and Louise's home uses modern, energy-efficient fittings to align with the overall efficiency of the house.
- The couple invested in a design guide for home-and-garden improvements to ensure their landscaping ideas complemented the home's aesthetic.
- During the planning stage, space for additional storage was considered to accommodate growing needs over time.
- To further enhance the lifestyle within their new home, Ian and Louise implemented a heating system that matched their financial capabilities.
- Louise expressed an interest in home improvement ideas for upgrading the doors and windows of the property, taking inspiration from real-estate listings.
- The extension of their home not only provides more living space but also connects the kitchen with the garden, allowing for seamless indoor-outdoor flow.
- The flooring throughout the house was chosen to reflect the couple's personal taste and maintain longevity with minimal maintenance.
- With the help of their contractor, Ian managed to complete a series of home improvements on the property; this included landscaping tasks like adding a patio, stone wall, carport, and gravel driveway.
- The wooden supports of the roof were carefully crafted by local artisans to maintain the traditional charm of the Cotswolds region.
- With the project manager's guidance, Ian and Louise procured materials and fittings on time, ensuring the build schedule remained on track.
- The new kitchen-diner, redesigned with the help of Ian's daughter, is a perfect combination of functionality and timeless beauty, offering a permanent investment in their forever home.
