After more than three decades of living in Billericay in Essex, Mike and Julie’s next move wasn’t just driven by a desire for a spacious home or a change of scenery – it was for their family. With their son, daughter-in-law, and two young grandchildren settled in the Bristol area, the couple and their daughter began searching for a home that would bring them closer to the people who matter the most.
Their search took them across North Somerset, before they discovered Bucklands Place in Nailsea, becoming one of the site’s very first reservations!
Now having been settled into their new home since last October, Mike and Julie have found their house in The Close at Bucklands Place has delivered more than they imagined. From the spacious layout and high-quality finish to the energy-efficiency and low maintenance lifestyle, as well as the opportunity to add their own personal touches, the move has given them the perfect base to enjoy proximity to family, pursue their hobbies and embrace life in Nailsea.
“We can’t really pick a negative to be honest” Mike said. “The house has exceeded expectations.”
As one of the earliest reservations, Mike and Julie had their pick of the plots! Interested in the five 4-bedroom detached homes in the private cul-de-sac The Close, positioned at the end of the development, they chose their home for its uninterrupted views from the roof terrace across their new neighbourhood and towards the rolling hills beyond. This part of the development has been designed to feel secluded, offering privacy and tranquillity due to a protected woodland to one side, and a large nature corridor to the other. Mike notes that the ecology behind their home certainly created the peaceful setting they were hoping for, and with their other neighbours moving in, Mike and Julie are looking forward to watching their neighbourhood come to life.
While the initial plan was to downsize, Mike and Julie have been pleasantly surprised by the amount of space their new home offers with ample room for everything from Mike’s classic car and hobby equipment to wine storage in the generous garage. Having moved from a more traditional property, they have embraced the home’s contemporary layout pointing out the “lovely kitchen diner” which Mike says is “working really well for us”, while the separate living room provides the best of both worlds. After three decades in
their previous home, they have also relished the opportunity to start afresh, completely refurnishing the house to make it their own.
Keen to make the most of their new home, the couple have made numerous customisations. From convenient fitted wardrobes to window shutters, they really have thought of it all. Having planned and measured everything before moving in most additions were complete within 3 months. He also gave kudos to Acorn, saying that he felt “very much supported” throughout the process, with the site manager and wider team on hand to resolve any snagging issues quickly and efficiently.
The layout benefits both their day to day lives and visiting grandchildren. He notes the two distinct sides to the upstairs, as well as the en-suite to not one but two bedrooms, which provides privacy both for them and their daughter. And while their fourth bedroom has been converted into Julie’s home office with a view over their terrace, there is still a bedroom available for everyone when the rest of the family comes to stay.
In the garden Mike’s bespoke music room, one of their many customisations to the home, takes pride of place. It’s a sanctuary for him to carry out his hobby and listen to his extensive vinyl collection without bothering Julie – who has a very different taste in music! A functional shed sits next door, while sleeper beds for herbs and trellises have been installed to create an easy-to-maintain outdoor space for Mike, Julie and their daughter to enjoy.
Mike says that one of the greatest benefits of their new-build home has been the opportunity to “start afresh after all these years”, noting the “lack of DIY” in comparison to dealing with the wear and tear that inevitably comes with an older property. Although not initially their main reason for making the move, Mike says the simplicity of caring for their home has become one of the biggest appeals throughout the process. “We realised the low maintenance became more and more attractive.” He explains. From the practical details to having modern wiring and reliable Wi-Fi connectivity throughout the house, to the home’s impressive energy efficiency, the couple have been delighted with how well it performs. Mike is particularly complimentary about the underfloor heating system, saying “through the winter, it was fabulous. The house was never boiling but always nice and warm.” He adds “you really do notice the efficiency”.
Mike and Julie have quickly embraced life in the local area praising its friendly local culture and excellent amenities. “People are noticeably more friendly on a day-to-day basis.” Says Mike, and he speaks highly of the local contractors. Both have become involved in local groups, with Julie running a Rainbows unit and Mike joining a local golf club.
They have also been impressed with the range of amenities nearby including healthcare services, supermarkets, leisure facilities and a thriving high street. Despite moving from a larger town, they feel Nailsea offers everything they need and more, combining convenience with a welcoming spirit.
As they look forward to a summer using their sun-filled terrace, and south-facing garden, Mike and Julie remain delighted with their new home. From the finish to the thoughtful layout, Mike says he is “very pleased with the build quality.” And, having experienced a smooth move-in process with “any little problems rectified with no major issue”, Mike reflects “I can’t emphasise enough, we’re very pleased with the house.”
Mike and Julie also wanted to give special thanks to their friendly local contractors that have helped make their home so unique:
- Edwards Home Fitted Furniture (Westbury on Trym)
- Shuttercraft Bristol
- Simon Hunt Carpentry Solutions
- Little Green Rooms
- InstaLoft Ltd
Discover The Close at Bucklands Place: an exclusive enclave of just five detached 4-bedroom homes with open-plan design and energy-efficient specification, just outside of Bristol.
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