An innovative new development in Alderley Edge is set to radically redefine our perception of the humble bungalow.
.jpg)
Originating in India, the bungalow first arrived on our shores in the late 19th century when it was favoured by bohemian fashionistas who heralded it as the antithesis of staid suburban society.
In the 1920’s, widespread reproduction of cheap imitations resulted in poorer quality versions of the original architectural style and what was once new and unconventional became ‘norm’.
Today, bungalows are pigeonholed as the staid domain of the retired or those seeking sunshine in seaside towns. These compact and traditional house types have born little resemblance to their more aesthetically pleasing ancestors, until now.
Work has commenced on an ‘attitude adjusting’ £1.75m property off Macclesfield Road called Chantreys. This modernist revival of the bungalow promises spacious, light filled interiors with flexible living accommodation and a luxurious specification.
Hillcrest Homes has collaborated with architects Calderpeel on the design, a partnership that has previously reaped 
numerous awards including ‘best luxury home’ and ‘best one off’ home in the country. These latest plans are typical of their shared appreciation for distinctive design and for creating a home in perfect harmony with its landscape.
Set within a mature tree and wall lined garden, Chantreys will be finished in render with attractive contrasting coloured window frames housing large expanses of glass. Separate to the main property will be a large double garage, which through the inclusion of a Sedum ‘living roof’ will blend comfortably into the setting.
Although the property will be predominantly single storey, Hillcrest is installing a second floor within the southern ‘wing’ to accommodate a 1,000 sq ft luxurious homeowners’ haven. This home within a home will comprise a master bedroom with glazed folding doors onto a private balcony, media retreat with Bose sound system, a Villeroy & Boch styled bathroom and dressing room.
Whereas most new properties have rooms dedicated to study, media and sleep, Hillcrest has chosen not to dictate how Chantreys’ owners should live within the home, instead providing flexible spaces that can be tailored to suit their lifestyles and requirements. 
Says Hillcrest Managing Director, Mike Kennedy, “Chantreys draws more parallels with the Australian or American interpretation of ‘bungalow’ than the British. It is glamorous, innovative and very stylish with accommodation that flows to unite each of the living spaces.
“One of the greatest advantages bungalows have over other house styles is their flexibility. Any room can be used for any purpose because they are all on the same level and because we tend to use our homes for more than just eating, sleeping and entertaining they have to be versatile and capable of being tailored to our lifestyle.”
Hillcrest has set aside four rooms as bedrooms but Chantreys’ owners could easily add a fifth by converting the study. Equally these spaces could be used to provide a home office, library, games room or children’s playroom.
Drawing on the latest building innovations coupled with feedback from past and present clients, Hillcrest has meticulously planned the layout and specification of each space in line with simple ergonomics. Every last detail down to the most convenient location of a store cupboard, plasma point, plug socket or mood lighting control has been considered.
The kitchen will be a testament to this desire to balance form with function. Designed in conjunction with Poggenpohl, Hillcrest is planning a stunning scheme crafted from warm dark wood with Corien work surfaces that also delivers the maximum amount of storage, seating and food preparation space.
Integrated into the scheme will be a comprehensive range of professional appliances from Siemens and Miele for every culinary requirement, including fan oven, combination oven, microwave and grill, induction hob, coffee machine, wine cooler, fridge and freezer.
More commonly found in a multi-million pound mansion than a bungalow will be an indoor heated swimming pool and, again, the space has been designed to be luxurious yet practical enough for daily use by all members of the family.
Leading French pool designer Piscinelle has employed both artistry and technological know-how to provide a pool that is compatible with leisure, competitive and rehabilitative swimming.
Mounted at one end is a control centre capable of governing the ‘mood’ of your swim, transforming it from calm and peaceful to tidal by creating a counter current against which you can swim. The pool will also be equipped with atmospheric underwater lighting, a sound system and cover.
After a work out, Chantreys owners will be able to relax in the sauna or on a private patio area, accessed through sliding glazed doors.
Chantreys is due for completion in Spring 2010. Once finished, it will demonstrate just how versatile and stylish single storey living can be, putting the bungalow at the forefront of fashion once more.
For further information call 01925 269912.
