This new self build property benefits from a huge 150m2 of additional living space thanks to a bright and contemporary basement storey

Chris and Monika Bartscht were looking for a bigger home and had enjoyed holidays in Bosham, West Sussex, which is well known for sailing among other leisure activities, so focused their search there. A small and derelict 1930s house was for sale and the couple leapt at the opportunity for a knock down and rebuild project. They envisioned a large and modern sustainable home and were attracted by the convenience of a prefab, turnkey build route. “All plans and layouts are precisely planned and prepared before the individual elements of the house are produced,” says Monika. “At the end of the planning process, a fixed budget is agreed and signed off. Whereas, with a builder, youneed to make provisions for at least an extra 10% on top of your budget, to cover any changes and complications.” An important part of their plans was to include a basement storey. “Our architect recommended including a plant room for all incoming mains, the heating system, the PV system and Tesla battery, the air source heat pump and the hot water cylinder. Having this in the basement would free up living space on the ground floor,” says Monika. “We always dreamed of having a wine cellar and my husband wanted a big man’s den, where he could build his model trains and listen to music.”