We at Smart Build Services embarked on an ambitious development project in Guilsborough.
We at Smart Build Services undertook a two-house development in Guilsborough, working with clients Catti and John Moss and their daughter Susie Turly, a partner at WT Architects in Edinburgh. We transformed a sizable property into two bespoke, energy-efficient homes. This project demonstrated our expertise in managing complex site conditions, collaborative design processes, and sustainable construction on a demanding plot.
Our vision for the Guilsborough project was to create a pair of modern, energy-efficient homes that reflected both the clients’ long-standing connection to the village and their desire for a more sustainable way of living.
Catti and John sought to downsize from their existing property into a contemporary home that would offer comfort, low maintenance, and lasting efficiency. Our goal was to design a development that maximised the site’s potential while delivering homes that complemented the character of the village.
Through careful design and considered detailing, we aimed to create homes that support a modern lifestyle with minimal environmental impact, allowing their owners to focus on the things they love most.
The site was situated on a private road in the heart of the village. Previous developments had taken place close to the proposed new site, which provided challenges in terms of access and not restricting any existing views.
Susie Turly, in consultation with her parents, designed the new houses to prioritise enhancing the village and the environment. Their focus was to build one two-bedroom house and one three-bedroom house with the view that, in the future, this would provide more affordable housing for the village.
The homes were designed to hunker down on the severely sloping site, which enabled maximum internal space whilst sitting quietly within the landscape.
The homes incorporated a thoughtful blend of materials: slate roofs, larch cladding, Velfac aluminium windows, and green Sedum flat roofs. These choices were functional, sustainable, and designed for longevity.
WT Architects produced and invited Smart Build to formally tender the project. Our experience in building houses on compact, complex sites puts us in a strong position to win the tender. References for similar projects were submitted along with our formal tender, and we were awarded the contract.
We then engaged with the architects and clients to value engineer certain areas of the build, enabling the best quality build for the best value. Our expertise and knowledge of products allowed us to highlight potential savings whilst maintaining quality.
We produced detailed build schedules, cash flow forecasts, CDM and RAMS documentation, giving the clients full transparency and control over budget, safety, and timelines.
The site’s steep gradient presented significant engineering challenges.
Plot 1 was constructed at the higher point of the site; however, the external levels sat well above DPC. This required reinforced retaining walls and comprehensive tanking to protect the structure. The groundworks were complex due to the severe slope.
Plot 2 incorporated living accommodation below ground. The footings had to be excavated in two stages. Metalwork and shuttered retaining walls were fitted, stabilising the ground and forming the stepped living accommodation.
A Sika tanking system was applied along with land drainage to a set design to fully tank the underground areas. Sika fully appraised and catalogued the tanking process at every stage and then passed the works, issuing a 20-year guarantee.
Internally, the fit-out included engineered wooden flooring, bathrooms that incorporated modern finishes with practical rails and chairs to future-proof the homes. Mezzanines and vaulted ceilings created a sense of space throughout the houses.
Smart Build worked with the clients to secure a grant for the supply and installation of energy-efficient heat pumps. This removed the administrative burden from the clients and offered significant savings.
Solar panels and battery systems were supplied and fitted, allowing the homeowners to monitor and optimise their energy consumption. These systems provide long-term financial benefits and minimal environmental impact, giving a greater understanding of energy use and maximising potential savings.
The site sat within a tight residential area with several houses very close by. Planning of health and safety, deliveries, noise, and being considerate to neighbours was paramount.
We established communication through WhatsApp groups and letters, keeping all relevant parties informed when areas of work might affect them. Deliveries, noise, and access were carefully managed to minimise disruption. We designated specific areas for material storage and coordinated with local authorities to ensure safety and efficiency throughout the construction process.
The build was handed over on time and on budget, and our relationship with the clients and architect remained positive throughout. At Smart Build we understand that small details matter and play a huge part in the completion of a harmonious build.
The Guilsborough project demonstrates our capability to deliver high-quality sustainable homes on challenging sites whilst maintaining strong client relationships and community integration.
At Smart Build Services, we specialise in turning difficult development sites into exceptional homes that enhance their communities. We have the vision and highly skilled trades that can effectively manage and deliver your project from start to finish.
Don’t settle for ordinary. Choose us as your building partner—we value your vision and deliver results you’ll love for years to come.
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