The Modern Lifestyle Home
Our ancestors enjoyed simple living, often multi -generational under one roof and open plan living accommodation. Through the centuries society dictated houses should have rooms for specific functions -the grander the house the more rooms. Generations had their own spaces and for the wealthy, separate accommodation for staff. Life and fashion is cyclical and the current trend is for large open plan living and multi -generational living is returning with many young people not affording to get on the property ladder or even rent, so stay with Mum and Dad. Society has evolved out of all recognition from those early homes but here we are in the 21st century with a high tech version of that early simple living. Everyone has their own media tablet and watches TV on catch up so the late 20th century family viewing of a favourite show has gone -family meals are reserved for Christmas and maybe birthdays -its all taken on the go! Progress? Maybe- but not for the balance of family life.
So often I hear clients describe their remit for a new house -a large open plan living space -sitting/dining/family room and kitchen. Bi fold doors on to a wide terrace for summer bar b ques -real indoors/outdoors living -minimal maintenance and not too much garden. Are we just lazy or is it because travel opportunities are high on the agenda and entertainment is made in a different way? The conventional design of homes has evolved -I wonder if future generations will come up with the idea of a formal dining room for entertaining!
There is plenty of choice of properties to buy across the county. New builds and old houses are converted to provide living spaces that suit the lifestyle we lead. Taylor Underwood (01271 320330) are selling 11 The Point, Croyde -a five bedroom new house in a select development of 11 properties within walking distance of the beach. The other end of the county Marchand Petit (01548 844473) are offering Estuary House -a grandstand view of Salcombe waterfront -where better to pass long summer days! They are also the agents for Villa 3 Estura -literally on the waterfront with access to the facilities of The Harbour Hotel. In Lympstone, Strutt and Parker (01392 215631) are the agents for East Lodge. A new build, high specification family home with views across the Exe Estuary. Whilst getting that holiday feeling living here you can get the train into Exeter to join the bustle of daily life -the best of all worlds!
So, does multi -generational family living work as it did for our ancestors? Generally, I am sure it does. Everyone needs their own space which is now found hiding behind the various screens, tablets and media appliances, so whilst in the same room everyone is in a different place! Conversations around the tea table are replaced by Facebook posts!
We all run faster and faster -why? Time to stand still in your own space is equally important- “it’s all about coming home”.