AN exclusive development of five new homes for people over 55 in Budleigh Salterton will see the restoration of a historic property designed by the town's most celebrated resident architect.
Wildflowers was the first property to be designed by William Hatchard-Smith in the early Twenties for his brother-in-law and sister, Colonel and Mrs Rowlandson. Inspired by the international Arts and Crafts design movement, Hatchard-Smith went on to design 50 of the most elegant houses in Budleigh Salterton – a style that has distinguished the town from others in East Devon.
Hatchard-Smith houses are much sought after and particularly appreciated for their elegance, comfort and sturdy construction. Some of the finest examples include Watch Hill in Cricketfield Lane and Lavender House on Moorlands Road.
In its latest incarnation the Arts and Crafts property, just off East Budleigh Road, will be renovated by specialist developer Blue Cedar Homes, alongside four new-build properties, for people over 55. The whole development, which is set in beautiful landscaped gardens, will be known as Wildflowers and each of the houses will be named accordingly: Orchid, Poppy, Snowdrop, Foxglove and Primrose. The project is a break with convention for the Exeter-based Blue Cedar Homes, which usually focuses only on new-build homes.
The generously proportioned period house is being sympathetically developed to retain many of its original features while benefiting from refurbishment to the high standards associated with all new Blue Cedar properties, including the incorporation of adaptable accommodation for future needs. The large sitting room and kitchen have been re-designed to make the most of the charming outlook across the gardens and the two south-facing master bedroom suites will enjoy sea views.
The purchaser of the refurbished house will have all of the benefits of the large period property set within generous gardens but, with the support of the Blue Cedar Homes management company, will have none of the hassle and hard work associated with the upkeep of a large home.
Nick Yeo, area director for Blue Cedar Homes, said: "Wildflowers is our second development in this charming seaside town – the first being Westfield Gardens which we completed over a year ago. We are delighted to have the opportunity to restore this fascinating period home while we are building the new houses.
"Hatchard-Smith was known for his instantly-recognisable properties that encompassed elegance, comfort and an attention to practical detail – which very much reflects our own values.
The greatest challenge for us, was to design the four new houses in such a way as to enhance the setting of the original property. Our approach was to adopt contrasting designs to that of the original house, incorporating the best aspects of today's architecture. Early feedback would suggest that we have managed to get this right and we are very excited about seeing the scheme built."
Each of the two- and three-bedroom properties – including the renovated house – will benefit from a private garden and parking as well as the services of a visiting estate manager who takes care of general maintenance.
The Blue Cedar Homes concept of providing bespoke properties within small, select developments that fit seamlessly with the local environment and community, recently received an accolade when the company's Cedar Gardens development in Taunton scooped the award for Residential Project of the Year under 40 units in the Michelmores and Western Morning News Property Awards.
Blue Cedar Homes managing director, Nick Hole said: "The award once again underlined the growing demand for niche, age-restricted housing. The new Wildflowers development is simply another step along the way toward the provision of alternative options for more mature homebuyers. We are always looking for the next suitable site for a Blue Cedar development, so we hope more people will have the choice of this type of property in the future."
Wildflowers is conveniently located in a peaceful position just off the East Budleigh Road within easy reach of the High Street, local amenities and Budleigh beach.
Further information on Wildflowers is available from their selling agents Palmers Whitton & Laing in Budleigh Salterton 01395 445 600, or for more information on all Blue Cedar Homes developments please visit www.bluecedarhomes.co.uk
