FACT FILE
WE LEARNED...
which are separated to cleverly divide the main living hub from the bedrooms
NAMES Lowri & Andy Horstead
IF YOU’VE NOT SELF BUILT BEFORE there are several essential early steps you may not be aware of that take time and money to arrange – such as ecological, topographical and soil surveys. In particular, we had to commission a bat survey, which could only take place in certain months and required three separate visits. Had we missed the window for this, we would have had to wait until the following year to submit for planning.
OCCUPATIONS Interior designer & market analyst
PLAN, PLAN, PLANwas our mantra to help save money in the long run. Make decisions about layout, materials, fixtures and fittings early in the process so you’re not rushed into last-minute choices you might regret. For instance, the style of fitting you choose from baths, showers, basins etc may dictate exactly where services need to run.
Following the sad passing of her father, Hugh, in April 2019, Lowri Horstead was keen for her mother, Non, to come and live full time with her family – including husband Andy, their two children Bella and Martha, and Mabel the Cavapoo. Their existing home was, however, not suitable – with only one bathroom and no separate living area for Non. After many family discussions, they decided to join forces and find a larger place that could provide three generations of the family with a sociable home as well as private spaces.
LOCATION Surrey
BUILDERS SOMETIMES ASSUMEthat you will understand their processes, and will not necessarily explain the reason for doing something in a particular way or at a specific time. Foster a good relationship with your main contractor, so that if issues arise you can discuss them as soon as possible. And don’t be afraid to challenge your builder (in a nice way) and ask for clarification.
Fulfilling the brief