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26 November 2008
The European love affair with modern architecture appears to be crossing the seas and enamouring British house buyers at last. Modern residential architecture receives a mixed response from buyers in the UK, but now that Countryside Properties' contemporary residential development, Accordia, has won what is the most coveted architecture prize in Europe, the RIBA Stirling Prize, the tide appears to be turning.
This modern revolution is not only being led by architectural or environmental enthusiasts, but also by people like Ken Young, a 67 year old retiree from Glasgow, who bought a strikingly modern and environmentally friendly apartment at Cliveden Village, Countryside Properties' award winning development in Taplow, Buckinghamshire.
Ken comments: "Having lived in older properties for most of my life, I did not expect to see myself in such a modern apartment. When I retired I decided to move out of my big house to be nearer to my children and grand-children, and I also wanted to downsize so I could travel more. I viewed new and old properties in a number of different areas, but it was Cliveden which stood out and really impressed me. The fact that it is set in green and mature countryside makes the development feel rather remote, but it is actually very well placed for visits to my family in Sussex, and travelling to Heathrow.
"In my opinion, these properties echo Scandinavian design and technology. They have very clean lines, there is a lot of space and you really feel like the glass and the balconies bring the outside in. I have also enjoyed learning about the eco-features in the property because they are very practical as well as being good for the environment. I have hardly had to turn my heating on and when I do, the insulation keeps the house so warm it only has to be on for a short time!"
Cliveden Village comprises 135 spacious, contemporary two and three bedroom houses and two bedroom apartments surrounded by mature woodland in the grounds of the 376 acre National Trust owned Cliveden Estate. Secure underground parking is available and residents have access to Cliveden's magnificent National Trust estate during its opening hours.
The crisp architectural design incorporates extensive glazing, staggered roofing, dramatic edges and sleek finishes. In contrast to the contemporary structural design, the houses have been clad in simple, natural materials which include smooth oatmeal coloured render, oak woodwork, copper parapets and edging, timber shingles and natural slate roof tiles. All the properties at Cliveden Village feature open plan living spaces and are extensively glazed to flood the interiors with natural light.
The properties are also very eco-friendly. Solar hot water installations provide renewable energy to selected properties. Homes are equipped with low energy external lighting, dual flush toilets and bicycle storage, and houses have water butts. Wherever possible, the properties at Cliveden Village are built using materials that are renewable, sustainable or recyclable.
The age exclusive development bears no resemblance to a retirement village. It is for modern, mobile, and design conscious 55+ year olds. The dedicated concierge service operates five days a week and is responsible for the management of maintenance, communal landscaping, refuse, communal recycling and window cleaning as well as being a constant presence for added security.
The marketing suite and show homes are open Thursday to Monday from 10.00am until 5.00pm. For further information telephone 01628 668835 or visit www.clivedenvillage.net
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