Deanfield Homes Provides New Village Shop With Post Office to Village Community
News
The Oxfordshire village of Marsh Gibbon has a new village shop thanks to regional housebuilder Deanfield Homes. Delivered as part of the new Deanfield View development, the new Marsh Gibbon Village Shop, complete with a post office, is the perfect example of how the development of new homes can boost local community amenities.
Marsh Gibbon, near Bicester, lost its previous local shop in June 2021 when the postmaster resigned. When the Deanfield Homes development was launched, planning commenced on a new village shop which promised to deliver essential services to the community, including universal access to mail and parcels, but also access to benefits, bill payments and banking services.
The new convenience store, which stocks everyday essentials, has been warmly welcomed by the locals, particularly those with limited access to alternative solutions or means of transport. By allowing the community to shop locally, the new shop stimulates the economy in the local area and allows residents to shop quality produce when convenient to them.
Ian Lewis, commercial director of Deanfield Homes, who handed the shop over to the new owners comments:
“We are delighted to have been able to provide a village shop to the community of Marsh Gibbon. To be able to deliver a vital local service that will benefit all reflects an ongoing commitment to make a positive contribution to the areas in which we build. The new village shop will make life much easier for local people. We are extremely proud to be leaving a lasting legacy in Marsh Gibbon.”
The Marsh Gibbon Village Shop is open Monday to Saturday, from 7am to 6pm and Sunday, 7am to 12pm.
Deanfield Homes takes a sensitive approach to development, building well designed and high-quality homes in rural village locations across Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and Hertfordshire. Its current developments include Deanfields, Deanfield Park and Deanfield Green.
Take a Tour of the Award-Winning Fitzroy
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One of Deanfield’s most popular home designs is the four-bedroom detached Fitzroy, an impressive character home with a garage included. Boasting plenty of kerb appeal including a striking elongated apex roof, the Fitzroy has just received an award in the Best Family Homes category at the 2022 Evening Standard New Homes Awards.
Join us for a room-by-room tour to find out what made the Fitzroy stand out to the judges…
Walking through the Fitzroy’s stylish brick porchway leads you into a bright, L-shaped hallway. There is plenty of space for boutique hallway furniture, whether that’s a console table, shoe & coat unit or statement lighting. On the left and right of the entrance are two versatile rooms; a chic office that could also be a library or craft room, and a large family room which would make a cosy home cinema, children’s playroom, teenage hideaway or separate formal dining room.
Towards the rear of the ground floor, you’ll find two superb entertaining spaces, both with French doors opening onto a patio and rear garden. The kitchen/dining room, complete with Bosch integrated appliances, has ample space for a six-seater dining table, making it the perfect spot to enjoy home-cooked family meals or a cheeky takeaway!
Alongside this is a substantial living room which has a built-in fireplace suitable for a log-burner for immediate added character. A separate utility room takes care of the laundry, with a door leading to outside, ideal for containing muddy feet or paws! The ground floor is completed with a stylish cloakroom and a store cupboard.
Upstairs, the Fitzroy’s spacious landing leads to four double bedrooms and an elegant family bathroom including a white Laufen suite and chrome Hansgrohe fittings. The principal and second bedrooms both benefit from a stylish en-suite and Hammonds fitted wardrobes, ensuring a relaxing retreat for parents and guests alike. Bedrooms 3 and 4 provide space for teenagers or a growing family.
With a landscaped front garden, electric vehicle charging point, security lights, energy efficient underfloor heating to the ground floor and many other superior finishes, it’s easy to see why the Fitzroy has been recognised as the perfect family home.
Our top interior tips for creating your own Fitzroy-style scheme in your own home:
- Get creative with the room you have – Feeling inspired by the Fitzroy’s downstairs suave office? A spare room can have endless possibilities, all it takes is a little imagination and some space-savvy design choices. Whatever your plans, make use of free corners and alcoves, or select furniture that can be used for a variety of purposes so you can stay focused, work efficiently and comfortably from your own home.
- Self-expression – It’s important to make your home feel like your own – a place you can escape to and truly feel relaxed in. This is where you can add pops of your personality through your chosen theme, especially when it comes to the bedrooms, to give everyone their own identity-infused space. The Fitzroy bedrooms are a perfect example with the themes of music and mermaid intertwined in the children’s bedrooms.
- Textures and tones – The Fitzroy boasts a calming neutral scheme from its warmer accent colours shown through the light fixtures and accessory pieces paired against light-coloured furniture pieces making for a tranquil, homely feel. The secret to creating a warm home is layering the tones and textures through accessories, furniture, and finishes. Whether you’re looking for bold colours or a more neutral feel, look to add contrast through the use of wood, stone and different fabrics.
- It’s all in the details – The Fitzroy is filled with interesting art pieces and statues adding a unique touch to the home. Don’t be afraid to add some statement furniture and accessory pieces to really bring together those finishing touches. With a signature mirror, striking piece of artwork or a beautiful rug, these are the pieces that will make your house a home.
- Outdoor impact – The Fitzroy’s cosy corner under the pergola is the perfect space to relax and escape. Create your own and add that personal touch with an open-air cinema or outdoor dining area, perfect for entertaining on warm summers night.
To experience the Fitzroy for yourself, why not visit our Deanfield Park development in the Buckinghamshire village of Ickford where the Fitzroy is available to view as a professionally-designed showhome.
New Partnership Uses Wood for Good
News
Regional housebuilder Deanfield Homes has entered into a strategic partnership with social enterprise RAW to deliver sustainable site recycling services and to transform wood waste from its sites into furniture and products for local communities.
The project will see waste wood from all Deanfield developments collected by RAW’s site recycling service and taken to its Oxford-based workshop to be turned into high-quality items such as benches, planters and bird boxes which will be donated to local schools, community groups and Deanfield’s own homeowners.
RAW helps businesses to create life-changing social and environment impact through its waste wood recycling service and by making high quality, sustainable furniture. It also provides employment, skills and training, with 75% of its workforce having fought, and won, against issues such as addiction, criminality, poor mental health and homelessness. Income from product and service sales also supports RAW’s specialist youth team, which helps to change the lives of 12-18 year-olds across Oxfordshire.
Peter Blades, Deanfield Homes’ founder and managing director, comments: “We’re delighted to be formalising our partnership with RAW. Not only are we committing to using its recycling services on all current and future Deanfield sites, but we will also support a circular economy by turning our waste wood into sustainable products. As a growing business we are focused on both our environmental impact and the positive contribution we can make to the local communities that we create and in which we build. This project with RAW ticks both of those boxes.”
Rick Mower, managing director of RAW, says: “We empower our clients and customers to confidently make procurement and purchasing choices that drive quantitative social and environmental value, without compromising on price or quality. Consumers and markets are more ready than ever for organisations who can truly demonstrate that they drive real social value through their brands and services. The leadership and vision from the team at Deanfield Homes has been brilliant in bringing this partnership together. We’re massively looking forward to working with them and making our partnership a UK exemplar of what can be achieved when organisations unite to create change.”
Deanfield Homes builds high-quality properties in aspirational villages. Current developments include Deanfield Park in the village of Ickford in Buckinghamshire, Deanfield Green in East Hagbourne and Deanfields in Stanton Harcourt, Oxfordshire. It also has forthcoming sites in Bledlow and Little Kimble in Buckinghamshire and Hermitage in Berkshire.
New Village Homes Launched Off-plan in East Hagbourne
News
Deanfield Homes has released for sale the first in a collection of high-quality properties at its Deanfield Green development in the sought-after village of East Hagbourne. The development of two to five bedroom traditionally designed and energy efficient homes is already generating significant interest following a preview weekend for those who had registered their details.
Deanfield Green is a collection of 74 homes and features seven different house types all designed in keeping with the local architecture and the development’s rural location. All properties offer low maintenance and energy efficient living, with Electric Vehicle charging points installed. Connectivity is also paramount, with full fibre broadband available to each home. Set amongst public open space, Deanfield Green will also benefit from a children’s play area and links to pedestrian and cycle routes.
The first phase of properties to be released offers a choice of two-, three-, four- and five-bedroom homes displaying various layouts, so there is a style to suit everyone here. Prices range from £390,000 to £925,000
East Hagbourne is perfectly situated, nestled alongside the Chiltern Hills Area of Natural Outstanding Beauty, just a mile south of Didcot and 15 miles from Oxford. This historic village is filled with period properties and listed buildings and has a strong sense of community. Deanfield Green is close to the local shop, village hall, community pavilion, and St Andrew’s Church, which dates-back to the 11th century. East Hagbourne also boasts a selection of sought-after schools nearby including Hagbourne C of E Primary School, St Birinus School and Didcot Girls School.
Ideal for commuters, Didcot Parkway train station is just 2 miles away by car or cycle, with regular services to London Paddington in under 40 minutes.
Peter Blades, managing director of Deanfield Homes, comments: “We are delighted to be launching this traditional collection in such a perfect location. As well as providing high-quality new homes, we are bringing wider benefits to the local community, including the extension of the existing village hall car park. Deanfield Green has so much to offer everyone from first time buyers to growing families and downsizers, with the local area providing such a peaceful setting with picturesque views and great local amenities. We look forward to welcoming the first residents in the summer next year.”
Deanfield Homes is an experienced housebuilder specialising in small to medium developments in rural village locations. It has completed a number of successful sites across the region and is currently building new homes at its Deanfield Park development in Ickford, Buckinghamshire, and Deanfields in Stanton Harcourt in Oxfordshire.
The marketing suite at Deanfield Green is open every Friday and Saturday from 10am – 5pm or
For more information visit www.deanfieldhomes.co.uk/deanfield-green
Top Tips for Cosy Autumn Interiors
News
As the nights draw in and Autumnal colours start to unfold, we take a look at some of the interior design trends set to make a big statement as the seasons change.
Wild Wonder
Revealed this month, Wild Wonder is the 2023 Dulux paint colour of the year. An earthy “soft gold”, Wild Wonder was chosen because of its natural tones and connections to nature. As we all seek to strengthen our relationship with the great outdoors, bringing the colours of nature into the home is an easy way to achieve this. Wild Wonder can be used as a calming base palette for any room or can be paired with bold accents and greenery to add warmth and a sense of Autumnal style.
Embrace Nature
The emphasis on sustainable living has only grown in popularity over the past two years and is here to stay. Natural materials and textures like rattan, wood, cork and stone can combine to create a rustic, homely décor especially alongside botanical print accessories or sheer fabric window dressings. In the kitchen, forest green looks set to remain one of the most sought-after colours for cabinetry but if you’re not looking for a full makeover, try bringing in seasonal greenery. Ferns, eucalyptus, pine cones, acorns, moss and winter berries will freshen your interiors.
Farmhouse Living
A spin-off from the hugely popular cottagecore trend, which romanticises English country living, farmhouse interiors are all about simplicity, functionality and cosiness. Combine deeper fabrics like boucle, wool or velvet with upcycled, pre-loved or inherited furniture to create richness and warmth. Layer your accessories to add texture but avoid clutter; think rugs, log piles, cushions and lamps.
Wall Panelling
Instantly eye-catching and effortlessly versatile, wall panelling will always make an impact. From feature walls to half height designs or even hidden storage, wall panelling is an easy way to add a luxury appearance on a budget. Use behind the headboard to make a focal point for the bedroom; in open plan rooms to give identity to a space or add a ‘zone’; or in the study to create a classic and timeless office. Wall panelling makes an excellent frame for lighting, mirrors and artwork and can be further personalised by painting or wallpapering individual panels.
Self-Expression
The shorter days of Autumn and Winter mean we look for joy and brightness, and where better to do this than in your own home? Bold colours, mismatched furniture, handmade artisanal pieces and patterned tiles can all be layered to express your personality. Prints, motifs and collections that are meaningful and individual can add energy and character to your home and invoke feelings of wellbeing.
For more interior design tips and regular inspiration from our professionally-designed showhomes follow us on Instagram @deanfield_homes_ltd
Deanfield Homes Appoints FD as It Sets Its Sights on Growth
News
Deanfield Homes has strengthened its senior leadership team with the appointment of Finance Director, Robert Davidson. Robert joins the High Wycombe-based housebuilder as it looks to significantly expand its presence throughout the Home Counties.
Robert has a strong track record gained within both private and public sector roles. This latest appointment sees a return to the housebuilding sector for Robert who previously spent six years as finance director with another successful SME housebuilder. Robert is also a trustee of the FARA Foundation, a charity which supports vulnerable children and adults, youth at risk and community-based programmes tackling poverty through education in Romania.
In his new position at Deanfield Homes, Robert will play a key role helping set and deliver the company’s strategy for growth, having responsibility for its finance function and forging strong relationships with key financial stakeholders.
Deanfield Homes celebrated its fifth anniversary this year with a move to larger offices and a business plan which will see the company consistently deliver at least 150 homes per year within the next three years. With strong financial backing from its investors and banking partners, it plans to build a strong pipeline of sites to fuel its expansion.
Peter Blades, Deanfield Homes’ founder and Managing Director, comments: “This strategic appointment comes at a crucial time for the business as we focus on our growth plans. Robert will be an asset to the team, bringing with him a wealth of experience in senior finance roles and an understanding of the unique nature of the housebuilding industry. His past experience in the sector provides him with invaluable knowledge of both our geographical patch and our focus on high-quality homes in aspirational locations.”
Robert Davidson comments: “I’m delighted to be back in a sector that I love and with a company that has such a focused vision for the future. Over the last five years, Deanfield Homes has built a strong business with a great team and a culture which sees its people take genuine pride in the homes they build and the experience they provide to their customers. I’m really excited to be joining the business as it embarks on a new chapter.”
Deanfield Homes builds high-quality sustainable properties in aspirational villages. Current developments include Deanfield Park in the village of Ickford in Buckinghamshire and Deanfields in Stanton Harcourt, Oxfordshire. It also has forthcoming sites in East Hagbourne in Oxfordshire, Bledlow and Little Kimble in Buckinghamshire and Hermitage in Berkshire.
Countdown to a Smooth Move
News
Moving house is one of life’s big decisions and navigating your way through the whole process can seem daunting. But with some forward planning, insider knowledge and expert top tips, the reality of securing your dream home could be just a few simple steps away. Here’s everything you need to know for a smooth move.
Step One: Plan Ahead
Once you have made the decision to get on or move up the property ladder, then it’s time to plan ahead. High buyer demand over the last 12 months has seen homes being snapped up as soon as they come onto the market, so you’ll need to get yourself into the best position possible to ensure you secure the house of your dreams.
Smart financial planning is a good place to start. Make sure you have a firm handle on your household finances so you know what you can afford and have all the information to hand ready for your mortgage application.
Secure a mortgage offer sooner rather than later to lock in a competitive deal. An independent broker can research the market on your behalf and provide free and independent advice on the best product and deals for your individual circumstances. Check your credit report online via one of the main credit agencies and follow their advice on improving your credit score if needs be.
Step Two: Get Your Home Sale Ready
If you have a house to sell, get an early valuation and ask the estate agents for their expert opinion on how you could boost the value of your existing property. Tackle those DIY and repair jobs that you’ve been putting off and don’t forget, first impressions really do count so make sure your home has kerb appeal by tidying up the front garden, adding some additional planting and perhaps giving the front door a lick of paint.
Inside your home, try and keep things neutral and think about your target buyer and what they might want. A family might want to see the possibilities for a playroom, whereas a professional couple could be sold on one room being styled as a home office.
Moving house is a great time to declutter; it will make your property more attractive to prospective buyers and you won’t be paying a removals company to transport items you no longer need. Creating a blank canvas isn’t always easy in a busy family home (particularly if you have kids!) but investing in clever storage can help keep rooms as clear and clutter-free as possible.
Step Three: Research the market
Once you have sold your existing home, are clear on your budget and have secured a mortgage offer, it’s time to start house hunting. It’s a good idea to draw up a list of both the essentials of your next property as well as the ‘nice to haves’. No matter what your budget, there is often a need to compromise!
If you’re moving to a brand-new area then online research can provide you with information on local facilities, schools and transport links. Local Facebook pages are also a great way to find out more about the local community. If your move isn’t too far afield, then nothing beats spending some time in a new area. Go during different times of the week to get a real feel of life in a new town or village.
If you are buying a new-build property, then you will likely be buying a home off-plan. Get in early on a development to ensure you have the pick of the plots and you’ll also be able to view professionally-designed showhomes which will not only enable you to see the layout of the house but also give you some fantastic interior design inspiration.
Step Four: Moving Day
Once you have a confirmed moving date, it’s all systems go! Book your removals company well in advance and, if you are packing yourself, it’s a good idea to tackle one room at a time. Dismantling large furniture can be time consuming so it’s worth starting that well ahead of moving day.
On the day of the move, make sure you pack a separate box with all the essentials you will need for the first couple of days in your new home, plus a bag with essential documents, phone chargers and plenty of drinks and snacks. If you have children or pets, it’s a good idea to arrange for someone else to look after them, to ensure the day is as stress-free as possible for everyone.
Don’t forget to take final meter readings in your old home and create a list of all the organisations that will need to be informed of your change of address.
When you are finally handed the keys, everything will be worthwhile. Put on the kettle, or pop open a bottle of bubbly, and toast a brand-new chapter in your new dream home.
Savio Gets an Insight into Careers in Construction
News
15-year-old student Savio recently joined Deanfield Homes for work experience to find out about careers in housebuilding. The visit was part of a school initiative aimed at giving pupils a better understanding of the working world and to discover potential career paths for the future.
Savio is interested in property development and Deanfield Homes gave him the opportunity to spend time with its land, construction and commercial teams as well as visit a number of its developments. Savio was able to get involved with architectural plans, the land acquisition process and also learnt about the importance of health and safety on a construction site.
He was also able to find out about the range of different roles that are available in the property sector, giving him plenty of ideas for a future career.
Savio commented: “I’ve really enjoyed my time at Deanfield Homes working in a team and learning about the different areas of the business, from how land is negotiated to how homes are built and sold. It’s definitely made me consider a career in the sector.”
“As I take Business Studies in school, I was really excited to go behind the scenes and find out more about the company, how it’s run and what goes on within the property industry.”
But there’s another reason why Savio felt right at home at Deanfield – he has lived in one of its properties with his family for the last three years! Maybe he’ll be helping to build more Deanfield homes in the future.
Outdoor Living Spaces to Elevate Your Garden This Summer
News
Our gardens have evolved over time to become a natural extension of our homes and a valuable extra living space. Whether you are looking to host dinner parties for friends this summer, or just want a tranquil area to escape to after a long day, take a look at our ideas for outdoor living – they could make your garden the best room of the house.
Open Air Cinema
Keep both kids and adults entertained this summer by creating an outdoor cinema. There are a whole host of projectors and pop-up screens on the market that can quickly transform your patio or a corner of your garden into a personal screening of your favourite film. Surround the space with ambient lighting, chunky knit blankets and comfortable outdoor bean bags and sofas. Throw in some popcorn and you will soon have that magical open-air cinema vibe in the comfort of your own home.
Al-Fresco Dining
For those who love to entertain, a dedicated outside dining area is a must for BBQs and dinner parties this summer. Set a long dining table or corner sofa under a vine-woven pergola to create a cosy dedicated space. In larger gardens, go all-out with an outdoor kitchen, or for smaller gardens consider a portable wood-fired pizza oven to go alongside your barbecue.
Cosy Corner
Create your very own corner of the garden in which to relax, read a book or sip a cool drink on a warm summer’s evening. Gather round a firepit with marshmallows at the ready in a cosy patio area furnished with a stylish egg chair, swing seat and comfy outdoor sofa. Complete the look with plenty of soft cushions, textured throws and an outdoor rug. The perfect escape after a busy day.
Bar under the Stars
Make your garden the go-to spot for family and friends with your very own bar. Upcycle pallets or old furniture to create a chic bar set with stools or opt for a corner sofa and table set for a more relaxed vibe. Add colourful string lights and a portable outdoor speaker for that all-important mood music.
Hot Tub Lounging
Unwind in your very own spa by installing a hot tub in your garden. Add a hot tub shelter for all year round use and privacy and add design character through string lights, colourful tiles and those all-important hanging spaces for towels and robes. Think about growing climbing plants such as jasmine to soften the area and provide incredible scent.
For more design tips and regular inspiration on how to decorate your home and garden, follow us on Instagram @deanfield_homes_ltd
Knock-Out Neutrals
News
When it comes to interior design, a sophisticated neutral scheme never goes out of fashion.
Avoiding the use of bright colours in your home can help create a light, calm and relaxing
environment which is easy to update. And a neutral scheme is anything but boring; there
are thousands of different shades to choose from, creating the perfect backdrop for bold
ironmongery, adventurous patterns, interesting artwork and natural fabrics.
At our Deanfield Park development in Ickford, our interior designers Lifestyle Interiors have
created a beautiful family home with a neutral palette, full of sophistication and character.
We caught up with their design team to get some top tips on how to create a show-stopping
neutral scheme in your own home.
1. Tone-up
Open-up any paint sample book and you’ll soon appreciate just how many neutral shades
there are available! Choose from classic monochromes and cool greys to warm tones of
beige and brown. Opting for the same light shade for the walls in every room will ensure a
cohesive flow throughout the house and help create a feeling of space. Add warmer accent
colours through upholstery and furniture along with stronger shades of navy, black and
charcoal through cushions, lampshades or prints.
2. The Light Fantastic
It’s important to consider the light in your home when deciding on your neutral colour
scheme. If you're decorating a dark, north-facing room or a room that doesn't get much
natural light, warmer tones work best. If you’re lucky enough to have a light-filled, south-
facing room you can opt for just about any colour, but cooler shades will work really well
against the sun's natural warmth.
3. Layer those textures
The secret to adding interest to a neutral look is to layer different textures in your home
through accessories, furniture and finishes. Natural stone such as granite can be visually
stunning and brass, bronze, natural wood and boucle fabrics all look fantastic with neutral
colour tones. Crisp fresh linens are perfect in summer, whilst plush velvets or a chunky knit
throw help create a cosier look in the autumn and winter.
4. Have fun with accessories
A home isn’t complete without personal accessories and finishing touches, so fill your rooms
with unique pieces, collectables and souvenirs for that individual look. A neutral backdrop
means you can really go to town with ornaments like natural stone or ceramics, feature
printed wallpaper, striking black and white family photos or a stand-out piece of artwork.
5. Make a statement
Statement furniture can really lift a neutral scheme. Go bold with dark wood furniture or
pieces painted in rich navy or deep charcoal. Add a signature mirror, plush dining room
chairs or an oversized sofa for real impact. Upstairs, you might want to keep the master
bedroom a tranquil escape, but go to town in the kids’ bedrooms with a character theme to
suit their passions.
For more interior design tips and inspiration from our professionally designed showhomes,
follow our Instagram @deanfield_homes_ltd.