New England
The settlers arriving in America discovered raw building materials were hard to come by, time consuming and expensive to acquire. Land needed clearing of forests so timber became the practical material to build houses. Evolving from simple timber cabins as time and stability progressed, housing evolved. A classic style emerged particularly synonymous with the heavily forested North America region of New England bordering Canada. Moving forward four hundred years and the circle has been completed. The fashion for designing New England style houses grew in England itself.
Whilst many commercial developers adopt the image externally with real and manufactured products it tends to be the waterside market that sees most of the designs. Painted wood in pastel shades blends well with the coastal light. They are cost effective to construct and integrate sustainable energy efficient systems effectively.
Whilst not true New England style many of the timber frame companies such as Baufritz, Kiss, Scandia Hus are modern versions of the simple homes the settlors built -just rather more sophisticated!
Driftwood Lodge on the banks of The Dart in Stoke Gabriel has a certain New England style to it. The unexpectedly spacious accommodation takes full advantage of the waterfront setting with a garden gate leading directly to the foreshore. Wide doors lead from the first floor sitting room/kitchen to a further balcony with water view. Four bedrooms, two with en suites plus two family bathrooms, utility rooms, private parking and mature gardens make this a delightful family or second home. Knight Frank are the selling agents (01392 423111)
Another opportunity in Stoke Gabriel is the conversion and new houses at Gabriel Court Hotel in Stoke Gabriel. Gabriel Court evolved over centuries as did many country houses. In the Victorian era a new façade was added and it became a hotel in the 1920s. A further transformation now by Park Green Developments, known for their high quality building work, have converted the principal building into two homes whilst another eleven brand new homes are built in the grounds. Many have views of the estuary and all enjoy private gardens, garaging and parking. Jackson Stops are the selling agents (01392 214222).
Leatfield in Kingsteignton is one of four new properties built by Cornerstone to a high standard with smart technology including audio lighting and heating, solar panels and sustainable features. Again good accommodation of large open plan sitting room leading to dining /kitchen, four bedrooms with two en suites and family bathroom. Integral double garage.
Style and fashion does dictate architecture as do regional variances dependent up local materials. It’s interesting that on the one hand housing has evolved with every technical facility whilst on the other the simple need for a home is the driving force and that will never change: “it’s all about coming home”.