As 2004 draws to a close, Hotproperty salutes the houses that have stood out in the past year as we announce the winners of the Hotproperty Awards.
Houses were hot in 2004, as developers of all sizes marketed homes that were roomy, flexible and technologically hip. Throughout the capital and the surrounding counties, buyers eagerly pounced on the latest houses as they realised that the market may have slowed somewhat, but people – particularly families – need their space.
The year’s houses were remarkable on a number of levels, and those that most impressed us at Hotproperty are lauded on these next few pages. We recall the best of 2004 as we present the fourth annual Hotproperty Awards for houses.
COMMUNITY CALA Homes
CALA Domus, Newhall, Harlow, EssexCALA Domus makes its second appearance as a Hotproperty award-winner. And with its undeniable combination of ultra-modern city-style accommodation and idyllic countryside location, this collection of homes would never have been anything other than a hit with buyers.
The community aspect is woven into the very fabric of this development. It is apparent in the choice of home types as well as in the provision of shared outdoor space and amenities. The design of the development encourages interaction between residents, which in turn improves security and leads to a feeling of ‘at-homeness’. The care with which the homes are designed extends outside, helping to create a resident-friendly space; even the hidden bin stores show that thought has gone into the attractiveness of the community as a whole.
The homes comprise a collection of 74 apartments, maisonettes and linked and detached houses, as well as duplex and triplex flats in the magnificent Copper Tower. All properties are high-specification and feature contemporary glass façades, colourful rain screen panels, brick-clad frontages and bright interiors, and many also boast stunning views over the surrounding countryside. The natural beauty all around is a big influence on the feel of the scheme – again, this is a crucial aspect of the community spirit. The homes are built to blend in with existing local structures, making CALA Domus itself a respectful part of the wider community of Newhall.
CALA Domus is a unique development, one which welcomes a variety of buyers – and it redefines and reinforces the idea of what it means to be a neighbour. A recent visit to the site showed a development coming into its own, as the finish on the town houses and maisonettes exceeded the promised level of excellence. An unexpected amount of space, both within the homes and outside, is conducive to easy entertaining, informal visits and a quick wave to your neighbour as you go on your way – the cornerstones of community. The good light quality, even in rooms that in traditional homes aren’t known for it, make the everyday mood more friendly, more welcoming.
The development is approximately 70 per cent sold. To get further information on CALA Domus, including the latest prices and availability, contact the sales office on 0845 300 2490 or visit caladomus.co.uk.
DESIGN & INNOVATION
Countryside Maritime
Ventura, St Mary’s Island, Chatham, KentSt Mary’s Island has become the hub of one of the South East’s most ambitious and outstanding regeneration projects, spearheaded by Countryside Maritime in a joint venture with the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA). And this is no mere mega-development; it is a thoughtfully planned collection of homes of all types, with the common theme of simple, colourful design running throughout.
The highly contemporary Ventura joins The Fishing Village within this superb community, providing styles of home that are unique; both breathtaking and restrained, the design uses materials such as glass, steel and cedar wood and bold colours to take the concept of waterside architecture to the next level.
The unique one-, two-, three-, four- and five-bedroom houses are attracting buyers who appreciate not only sophisticated design but a luxurious allowance of space. With each phase to be released, eager buyers have come forward quickly – and with this level of contemporary chic it is easy to see why.
As with The fishing Village, homes at Ventura offer open-plan interiors and floor-to-ceiling windows. The kitchens are ultra-modern, with black granite worktops, fully integrated appliances and open-plan kitchen/breakfast rooms leading to conservatories (some double height). Galleried landings serve to open out the space inside to create a light and airy atmosphere.
Some of the master bedrooms have been created in vaulted roof spaces with terraces offering magnificent views of the surrounding island towards the River Medway and Upnor Castle. On completion the 150-acre island will contain amenities including a new school, doctor’s surgery and village hall, as well as expansive open spaces and a riverside walk. Approximately 20 per cent of St Mary’s Island is dedicated to open space, including a large belt of parkland with maturing woodland which will be conserved for wildlife.
Houses at Ventura have been designed to offer residents good communication links, including a comprehensive network of footpaths and cycleways and a nearby train station with regular trains to Victoria, both of which encourage alternatives to car use.
One-, two-, three- and four-bedroom properties are currently available, priced between £150,000 and £325,000. to find out more call 0845 071 2071 or visit ventura-chatham.co.uk.