We were delighted to be invited on a tour of Elmsbrook – a development by Crest Nicholson and Frabrica on the north west edge of Bicester. On first glance, you might be forgiven for assuming this is just another new housing development, but on closer inspection you will notice some tell-tale signs that these are no ordinary homes, and neither is the community they situated in.
Elmsbrook is the first phase of a much larger plan to bring over 6000 new homes to Bicester that will be truly Eco Friendly. Bicester has been designated as one of only 10 NHS Health New Towns. As such just one feature of this development will be the 40% of dedicated green open spaces as part of the development – that’s in addition to the large gardens complete with a fruit tree in every home! Furthermore, with a community hub, business centre, schools, shops and farmers markets, this whole scheme will offer residents a unique living experience that ticks all the green credential boxes of modern society.
The houses themselves may look like any other, but they are the first in the UK to be carbon neutral. With solar panels fitted to every home, a rainwater capture and recycling system, triple glazing and a centrally run heating and power system, these homes will not only deliver on their green credentials but will offer the owners real savings in energy bills – around 30% on electricity alone!
With a home information system ‘Shimmy’, every home is not only in control of their energy use, but also has up to date access to what is happening in the community – when is the next bus running for instance!
But, has all this Eco-Friendly approach been at the expense of modern living requirements and demands for stylish homes? The short answer is no. With superfast Broadband to all homes, SKY Q ready and home control systems you have all the technology and entertainment you need at your fingertips. With Amtico flooring, Bosch appliances and Roca bathrooms they have really upped the style stakes and delivered homes that really are a cut above.
So how does a style conscious homeowner carry on the eco credentials once they move it? Well, there are lots of ways that you can continue to furnish your home that will be environmentally friendly. Using local suppliers and manufacturers keeps the product miles down. Furniture that is upcycled or using reclaimed materials. Looking for alternatives like Vegan leather and sustainable products like bamboo fabrics. Home accessories such cushions and throws made from recycled plastic bottles offer some stylish finishing touches.
If you want to find out more about furnishings with a conscience, then we will be spending the day at Elmsbrook on xxxxxxxx and will be giving advice on creating your very own Eco Home. So why not come along and see how we can help you create a stylish home that won’t cost the earth!
By Jill Treloggen
Founder, JT Interiors