We are over the moon to announce that 119-121 Park Road has won the prestigious Small Housing Development of the Year award at the Insider North West Residential Property Awards 2025.
This fantastic scheme, developed by PIC Homes, is a prime example of thoughtful urban infill, transforming the site in Timperley, Altrincham from just two dwellings into a vibrant community of 10 family homes. Designed with sustainability and modern living in mind, the project demonstrates our commitment to enhancing residential density in well-connected locations.
We had a great evening at last night's awards ceremony at Manchester Central, which was a real showcase for exemplary housing development across the North West region.
A huge congratulations to all the winners and nominees – the competition was tough, and it’s fantastic to see so many high-quality projects and the exceptional talent driving the future of the construction industry.
We’re excited to share that our Park Road, Timperley project, developed in collaboration with PIC Homes, has been shortlisted for Small Housing Development of the Year (fewer than 60 homes) at the Insider North West Residential Property Awards 2025! This recognition highlights our dedication to creating bespoke, high-quality housing that enhances both lifestyle and community.
In partnership with PIC Homes, the Park Road development in Timperley is a perfect example of thoughtful design and expert craftsmanship. The project features a unique blend of nine new-build homes alongside the restoration of a local non-designated heritage asset into a stunning six-bedroom super home, seamlessly adapted for extra care.
This development prioritises exceptional design, sustainability, and functionality, delivering premium homes that balance contemporary living with timeless appeal. From the carefully considered layouts to the high-quality finishes and materials, every detail reflects a commitment to creating spaces that feel both modern and connected to their surroundings.
The Insider North West Property Awards celebrate the very best in the property sector, and being nominated in the Small Housing Development of the Year category is an honour. This nomination acknowledges the creativity, precision, and effort poured into this project by both our team at CODA Bespoke and the team at PIC Homes.
The awards ceremony is fast approaching, and we’re delighted to be among such talented finalists.
To learn more about the Park Road, Timperley development, visit here. Stay tuned on social media as we bring you updates from the awards!
Recognised for its seamless blend of traditional Yorkshire aesthetics with contemporary design, this project exemplifies our approach to creating homes that respect their setting while offering modern comfort and style.
The Yorkshire Farm House was designed to offer a fresh take on the traditional farmhouse, with particular attention to how the home integrates with its surrounding landscape. Drawing on materials like locally sourced stone and incorporating large windows for natural light, the home balances rustic character with clean, modern lines. Inside, the open-plan layout allows for a spacious, connected feel, while bespoke finishes and custom joinery provide the subtle detail that brings the project together.
This shortlisting is a testament to our team’s dedication to thoughtful, sustainable design. The Northern Design Awards are known for celebrating quality, creativity, and innovation across the North, and we’re honoured to be considered alongside many talented professionals in our field.
With the awards ceremony on the horizon, we’re proud of the recognition The Yorkshire Farm House has received and look forward to celebrating the achievements of all the finalists. Whether we bring home the award or not, this shortlisting is a valued acknowledgment of the work we do and our commitment to creating distinctive, well-crafted homes.
More details on The Yorkshire Farm House can be found here. Thank you for your continued support.
We believe that one of our greatest strengths as a company is our willingness to nurture the best talent and reward that talent with internal promotion. If you are looking to work for a company with a bright future who will actively look to provide great career progression prospect, we would love to hear from you.
Please get in touch and send us your details to careers@codastudios.co.uk.
Like all home improvement projects, planning is key when it comes to pulling off a house extension. Want to know more about how to set yourself up for success? In this hands-on guide, we'll dive into the dos and don’ts of extensions, with insights and tips from the CODA Bespoke team.
Planning can make all the difference when executing a home extension, which is why several of the dos listed below focus on preparation, organisation and design.
Kicking off your extension journey without a decent amount of experience under your belt is akin to setting sail on uncharted waters. When you’re dealing with major concerns like the structural integrity of a building and the flow/functionality of living space, the concept of ‘winging it’ isn’t an option.
Instead, seek the advice of professionals who can help steer your project towards success. Whether it’s an established architecture firm to bring your vision to life or an experienced general contractor to streamline the building process, professionals can provide invaluable insights throughout the extension process.
Construction noise is inevitable during any home extension project, so it pays to establish good relationships with your neighbours as early as possible. This can help enormously when it comes to obtaining planning permissions and overcoming other hurdles down the line.
Plus, engaging in open communication with your neighbours isn’t just polite. It’s an opportunity to build a supportive community, source local recommendations and potentially gain valuable insights from those who've navigated similar projects in the past.
Every home has a story to tell, whether it’s a character-soaked period property or a modern build. Understanding the unique history of your property, including past modifications and structural nuances, can be incredibly helpful when planning an extension. This information can often serve as a foundation for architects, allowing them to explore ideas and design an extension that complements, rather than competes, with the existing structure.
Designing a dream extension is a highly creative process. Even when working closely with an architect, there’s generally lots of room for input from the homeowner.
At CODA Bespoke, we always encourage our clients to source inspiration from various media, whether it’s flicking through design magazines, scrolling through online platforms or connecting with homeowners who have pulled off similar projects. Creating a mood board can help you articulate your vision and provide architects with visual prompts to bring your dream extension to life.
The world is rapidly embracing sustainable practices and the building sector is no exception. From green building materials and energy-efficient technologies to sustainable design principles, integrating eco-friendly elements into your extension can be both responsible and rewarding.
The pitfalls of home extension projects often present themselves only when it's already too late. For homeowners, this can cause stress, timeline delays and financial challenges. Below, we breakdown some of the most common gaffes to avoid when navigating home extensions.
One of the biggest faux pas homeowners make when planning extensions is underestimating the complexity of the process. From securing planning permissions and addressing structural engineering challenges to sourcing unique building materials, most stages take more time than you might think. A realistic understanding of the intricacies of extensions will help prepare you for potential hurdles along the way.
Set your extension project up for success with a watertight design. There’s no such thing as too much detail when it comes to your blueprint. After all, your planning documents should not only outline your overall vision but serve as a practical guide for construction and a reference point for all contractors involved.
Finances are the backbone of most home extension projects – a fact that underscores the need for a realistic budget. Consider not only construction costs but also unforeseen expenses. A realistic and well-thought-out budget will ensure that your dream extension remains a source of joy without turning into a financial burden.
Time is of the essence in any construction project, especially extensions that involve multiple different trades and contractors. Collaborating with an experienced architecture firm can help establish a detailed timeline. Regular check-ins ensure that the project stays on track, with minimal delays and disruptions.
While some flexibility is acceptable, straying too far from the initial plan can lead to complications. At CODA Bespoke, we always advise homeowners to communicate any changes promptly and most importantly, consult with professionals to assess their impact. At the end of the day, a well-planned extension with minimal deviations from the original blueprint, is more poised for success.
As hurdles like high house prices, rising interest rates and economic instability continue to plague the UK property market, extensions will continue to win over homeowners. They represent an opportunity to not only enhance your lifestyle and living spaces but to strategically increase the value of your property.
Whether you’re looking to breathe new life into a dated property, add an extra wing to your home or create flow between your indoor and outdoor living spaces, keeping these dos and don'ts in mind can help you embark on any extension journey with confidence.
Remember, extensions aren’t just about expanding your living space. They’re about creating spaces that reflects elevate your lifestyle, reflect individuality and improve the value of your home. Your dream space awaits, so brief the team at CODA Bespoke today or check out some of our house extension projects.
Photo credit: Rayner Builders
Planning a home renovation in 2024? Whether you’re dreaming of clean lines and contemporary finishes or are passionate about preserving the charm and character of a heritage building, renovations are an exciting opportunity to enhance your living space.
Starting with a well-structured plan and clear vision is the key to pulling off a successful project. In this article, we’ll share tips and advice from our in-house team. The goal? To help you streamline your home renovation project and bring your vision to life.
Your home is an expression of your lifestyle, values and personal taste. So, it makes sense to begin your renovation journey by outlining your vision. Ask yourself what you hope to achieve with this project.
Are you looking to create open and spacious living areas? Is eco-conscious luxury a priority? How do you feel about blending classic and contemporary styles? Defining your vision is the first step to a successful renovation project.
Dreaming big is exciting. But for most homeowners, it’s important to set a realistic budget. This will help keep your project on track and prevent any nasty surprises down the line. Consider all potential costs, including design and architectural fees, as well as materials and labour.
It’s always best to add around 20% to your expected cost to accommodate for contingencies. Best case scenario, your project stays on budget, and you can use the cash to splurge on designer furniture and homewares. Or last-minute extras like an under-stairs, glass-walled wine cellar.
A luxury home renovation demands the expertise of a professional design team. At CODA Bespoke, we specialise in creating tailored designs that reflect your unique vision and lifestyle. This can help you make the most of your budget, but also make the process a lot easier.
Sustainable luxury is a design concept that’s here to stay. Eco-conscious features not only reduce the environmental impact of your home but enhance its value. Consider incorporating features like green construction materials, energy-efficient lighting and smart home technology.
If your home has historic value, you may encounter more hurdles than usual when seeking planning permission for your renovation. The process is designed to ensure your property retains its charm while benefiting from modern upgrades. A thoughtful and creative approach to design is usually the best way to strike this balance.
Most renovation projects in the UK require planning permission, particularly for significant additions or alterations. Ensure you understand local regulations and planning requirements in your area before starting your project. This will minimise delays and ensure your project runs as smoothly as possible.
It’s usually worth enlisting the help of a local architectural agency to help fast track the process and liaise with local councils and planning authorities.
When planning your renovation, you’re free to choose from a wide range of materials. If a luxury finish is a priority, premium materials like hardwood flooring, custom cabinetry, marble countertops and high-end fixtures can make all the difference. Remember, it’s often the small details that contribute to a luxe aesthetic.
Setting a timeframe is a good way to keep your renovation project on track and minimise unnecessary delays. Be realistic and allow for some flexibility in your schedule, as delays can occur.
When designing your renovation, try to create cohesion between your indoor and outdoor spaces. This will help tie everything together and create a seamless flow within your home.
Renovations shouldn’t just add extra living space to your home. They should focus on creating a space that's uniquely yours. From bespoke furniture and to tailor-made design solutions, don’t be shy to customise your renovation and infuse your personality into the project.
Plan ahead to integrate cutting-edge technology into your renovation. Smart home systems are becoming increasingly popular in the UK, enabling homeowners to manage lighting, security, heating and entertainment at their fingertips. While some technologies can be added on after your renovation, planning ahead will help you streamline your system.
The right lighting can transform a space from ordinary to extraordinary. High-end homes often combine ambient, accent and task lighting to complement different spaces. Consider engaging the help of a lighting designer to enhance your new space.
Craftsmanship can make all the difference when it comes to the quality of your renovation. Take the time to research local service providers and seek out architects, builders and contractors known for their attention to detail.
Regular inspections and quality control checks will help identify and address any issues before they escalate. Generally, quality control is a shared responsibility between the homeowner, contractors and project management team.
Renovations go far beyond the construction phase. A strategic approach to interior design will bring your space to life. Tackle this stage solo if you’re confident or collaborate with interior designers who will help you embrace your unique style.
Maintaining open lines of communication with your architect, design team, builders and contractors is imperative. Regular updates will ensure your renovation project progresses smoothly.
When your luxury renovation is complete, take the time to celebrate your achievement and share your new space with family and friends.
Whether it’s hosting a champagne breakfast in the garden or engaging a professional photographer to capture the beauty of your new space, we always encourage our clients to get a little extravagant when it comes to the celebration stage.
After all, renovations are hard work and deserve recognition.
Ready to take the plunge and start your renovation project in 2024? At CODA Bespoke, we understand that home renovations are an exciting journey that demands careful planning, expert guidance and a clear vision. This is why we work closely with each client to craft spaces that are luxurious, liveable and completely unique.
To get started, send us a few details to brief us on your project and we’ll be in touch!
Are you on a mission to incorporate sustainable design principles into your next home renovation or extension project? You’ve come to the right place. At CODA Bespoke, we're passionate about ideas that not only enhance your living space but embrace sustainable design.
For us, eco-conscious design isn’t just a trend but a way to create a greener, more energy-efficient spaces that don’t compromise on style or luxury. Looking for inspiration? Read on as we explore over 20 creative ways to design sustainable home renovations and extensions.
As far as we’re concerned, harnessing the power of the sun is one of the most underutilised sustainable design principles. Put simply, passive solar design maximises natural sunlight and minimises energy consumption. The result? Your home is filled with natural light and your energy bills stay as low as possible.
What’s not to love? Consider adding large, south-facing windows to capture the sun's warmth during the winter. This not only reduces heating costs contributes to a bright and inviting living space.
Instead of buying new, consider reclaimed and recycled materials for your renovation or extension. Salvaged wood, bricks and even reclaimed metal can add character to your home while reducing the demand for new resources. It's a win-win for aesthetics and sustainability. Don’t be afraid to get creative with reclaimed materials and find an architect and builders who share your vision.
Green roofs and living walls have serious Instagram appeal but they’re more than just a trend. Covering your roof with vegetation not only looks striking but can improve insulation, reduce stormwater runoff and create a habitat for wildlife. Inside, living walls help to improve air quality and serve as a stunning visual feature that brings the outdoors in.
Upgrading to energy-efficient windows and doors is one of the easiest ways to improve the sustainability credentials of your renovation project. Look for options with high insulation values to keep your home comfortable year-round.
Ditch the traditional radiators and opt for underfloor heating. Luxurious and energy-efficient, modern underfloor heating systems keep your home cosy while reducing your carbon footprint.
Never underestimate the importance of proper insulation. As well as keeping you comfortable, insulating your home reduces the need for constant heating or cooling, which translates to lower energy bills. To really give your home a sustainable edge, consider eco-friendly insulation materials like cork, sheep's wool and hemp.
Solar panels allow you to harness energy from the sun – not just heat as we discussed above. They require an initial investment but will soon pay for themselves in the form of significant long-term savings on your energy bills. With the right planning and design, there’s no need for them to be an eyesore either.
Collecting and using rainwater for non-potable purposes is an easy way to improve the sustainability of your home. For example, H2O collected from your rainwater harvesting system can be used to water your garden or even flush toilets. Some homeowners go one step further and use rainwater collection as their sole source of water.
Integrate smart home technology into your renovation and embrace eco-friendly solutions like energy-efficient lighting, thermostats and home automation systems to control energy usage.
During your renovation, aim to minimise waste by recycling and reusing materials where possible. The best way to do this is to chat to your architect, builders and contractors about waste reduction solutions before starting your project.
Modular extensions are a smart and sustainable way to expand your living space. They’re prefabricated offsite, which reduces construction waste. Plus, they can be designed with sustainability in mind and packed with energy-efficient features.
Improve your indoor air quality by choosing low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints and finishes. This will help keep the air in your home fresh and toxin-free. Proper ventilation systems can also help improve indoor air quality.
If your home has historic or heritage value, taking measures to preserve its unique character is a thoughtful way to respect the past while updating your property.
Take cues from the Germans and adopt Passive House principles in your renovation or extension. Also known as Passivhaus, the voluntary standard focuses on creating airtight and super-insulated buildings that require minimal energy for heating and cooling. The movement is gaining momentum in the UK and is a great way to combat soaring energy costs.
All homes are unique which is why a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t always work when it comes to renovations and extensions – especially when sustainability is a priority. Improve the quality and sustainability of your project by working with a professional design team that can help bring your vision to life.
Where possible, opt for locally sourced materials to reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation. From locally quarried stone to timber sourced from sustainably managed forests, there’s often no need to import from abroad. Supporting local suppliers also strengthens your local economy and lends homegrown appeal to your project.
Don't forget about your outdoor spaces when thinking about creative ways to incorporate sustainable into your home improvement project. From native plants and water-efficient irrigation to eco-friendly hardscape materials, your landscaping reflects your home's sustainability.
To truly lean into a sustainable home renovation or extension project, consulting the experts is crucial. At CODA Bespoke, we have a team of dedicated architects, planners and designers who can guide you through the process and help expand, elaborate on and improve your sustainability ideas.
Ready to jumpstart your sustainable home renovation or extension project? Whether your vision is to transform a centuries-old heritage building into an energy-efficient home or breathe new life into an existing property, we specialise in creating luxurious spaces that aren’t afraid to take a creative approach to sustainability.
Take a look at some of our renovation and extension projects or call us on 0114 279 4931 to discuss your dream home.
Photo credit: Rayner Builders
Designed to control urban sprawl and protect the natural environment, green belts are found across the UK. They’re beloved public spaces but when it comes to development, restrictions can be tight.
Looking for information on how to secure planning permission on green belt land? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how to navigate the red tape, and explore some different strategies to help your green belt development application get the green light.
Before we get started, let’s take a moment to explore the history of green belts in the UK. The term was coined by English social activist Octavia Hill in 1875, as part of her petition to save the Swiss Cottage Fields in Hampstead from development. While her campaign was unsuccessful, her philosophy of "open spaces for all” inspired the foundation of The National Trust in 1895.
Today, green belts continue to play an important role in preventing urban sprawl and preserving the picturesque British countryside. They represent one of the highest levels of protection within the national urban planning system and while this does make development challenging, it’s not impossible.
If you have a vision for green belt land, these pathways will help you navigate the process. Our goal? To create a solution that matches your development goals while respecting the green belt philosophy to protect the "life-enhancing virtues of pure earth, clean air and blue sky" that Miss Hill valued so much.
One of the most straightforward ways to develop green belt land is to remove it from the protected zone. Under the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), local planning authorities have the discretion to remove land from the green belt where "exceptional circumstances” exist.
For example, an “exceptional circumstance” may include a shortage of land for new homes. While promising, this pathway can be highly competitive. Success hinges on promoting your site as a smart and sustainable choice for development.
From centuries-old barns to abandoned grain silos, converting agricultural buildings can be a clever way to overcome green belt development restrictions. The demolition of agricultural buildings on green belt land is often prohibited. However, under Class Q of the General Permitted Development Order, residential conversions may be approved. With the right architectural insight on your side, even the most rundown pastoral structures can be reimagined as beautiful, functional homes.
Applying for planning permission from infill development angle is another option. Also known as backland development, the process describes the development of vacant or under-utilised land close to developed urban areas. The logic is to release land to developers without compromising the integrity of the green belt.
Infill development applications can be a great way to secure planning permission within designated green belts. However, the approval process can be highly subjective and is often at the discretion of local planning authorities.
For the best chance of success, your application should be thoughtful and sensitive to the unique needs of the community. It should protect the integrity of the green belt and respect the existing pattern of development in the area.
This approach calls on local authorities to consider “very special circumstances” when approving or denying green belt development applications. You’ll need to prove your project is unique and can only be realised on the specific site in question.
A shortage of housing land in the local area is one angle. But it’s not always enough to constitute "very special circumstances." Success is typically higher when the "very special circumstance" is something like the restoration of a heritage-listed building within a green belt area.
Paragraph 80 (formerly known as Paragraph 79) projects take advantage of an exemption clause in the NPPF. Also called the country house exemption clause, it helps push through proposals that would otherwise be refused and is especially useful when developing green belt land.
To qualify for approval, a project must be “of exceptional quality” and “truly outstanding or innovative”. The NPPF states it must reflect “the highest standards in architecture” and “help to raise standards of design more generally in rural areas”. The property must also “significantly enhance its immediate setting, and be sensitive to the defining characteristics of the local area.”
These types of builds are generally architect-designed with a luxurious feel. They champion living spaces that exist in harmony with the natural landscape and are often featured in publications like Grand Designs. For example, the conversion of Underhill House, a 300-year-old stone structure located in The Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, into an eco-friendly Passivhaus was approved under the Paragraph 80 exemption.
In most cases, securing planning permission on green belt land is a complex process laced with hurdles. Approval often depends not only on building a strong case to convince local planning authorities, but also a deep understanding of local planning systems, politics and community dynamics. This is where it pays to enlist the help of an expert architectural practice.
At CODA Bespoke, we underpin every planning permission application with a commitment to protecting the British green belt network. We understand the delicate balance that exists between safeguarding green spaces, addressing the need for housing and helping clients create their dream homes.
Many of our projects are approved under the Paragraph 80 exemption. This requires an in-depth understanding of local planning systems, as well as a commitment to the highest standards of design and innovation.
Our in-house team of planning consultants work tirelessly to create convincing applications that showcase the exceptional qualities of every project. We also have a wealth of experience working closely with local councils and planning authorities, including a proactive approach to negotiations. It’s this commitment to both our clients and the British green belt network that helps us achieve a high level of success for green belt applications.
Ready to build? Contact us today to explore how we can help you secure planning permission for your green belt land project and create your dream home.
To succeed in renovating a home, it's important to plan carefully and pay attention to details from the start. Let’s look at two main parts of home renovation – choosing a property and how to transform it.
The old real estate adage, "location, location, location," rings true. The location of your property will influence not just its current worth but also its future appreciation. Consider how close you are to public transportation, schools, shopping centres and other facilities. Remember to consider the neighbourhood's safety and future development plans.
Your budget will determine a lot of what you can do. Think about the cost of buying the house, the money you'll need to fix it up and extra money for surprises. It's a good idea to set aside an extra 10-20% of your budget for unexpected costs.
This contingency money can be a lifesaver if you run into problems like plumbing issues or electrical repairs that you didn't plan for. Keeping a cushion for these unplanned expenses will help keep your renovation project running smoothly and can save you from a lot of stress.
Get an expert to check the house to make sure it's in good shape. Watch out for big problems like a weak foundations, wood-eating insects or old wiring and pipes. Fixing these can cost a lot of extra money. Having an expert's opinion can help you avoid expense later down the line.
Even if you want to live in the house for a long time, think about how much you could sell it for in the future. Look at how house prices are changing in the area, what renovations you're planning and what similar houses nearby cost. This will help you make smarter choices.
Assess the house to see if it fits what you want to do. If you want to make big changes, a house that needs a lot of work might be good for you. But if you want to finish fast, pick a house that only needs small renovations. If you know what you want ahead of time you will pick the right house and avoid wasting time and money.
Once you've selected your property, revisit your budget. Get a few quotes from different builders, check the cost of materials and don't forget money for permits or designs. If it's looking too expensive, think about getting a loan or doing fewer changes to the house.
Not all renovations are created equal in terms of return on investment and impact on living conditions. Fix the important things first, like a weak floor or roof. Making the kitchen or bathroom nicer usually helps the most if you want to sell the house at a later date.
After that, you can look at other changes like painting or adding new furniture. These smaller upgrades can make the house look better but may not add as much value compared to the improvements we’ve already mentioned. It's good to know what changes will help you the most, whether you plan to stay long-term or you’re selling in the near future.
For big or complicated projects, it's really important to get help from people who know what they're doing. Architects can turn your ideas into real plans and contractors will turn that vision into a reality. Ensure that you pick reputable professionals by asking for recommendations, looking at their past work and making sure they have the right qualifications and insurance.
Before you pick up a sledgehammer, familiarise yourself with local building regulations and obtain any required permits. If you don't follow the rules, you could get fined or have to undo what you've done. Being ahead of the game with planning permissions and building regulations will ensure your project goes much smoother.
Building repairs often take longer than you think. There are a lot of moving parts to keep on top of to make sure that timings are coordinated and that your project is finished on time. Consider factors such as weather, availability of materials and builders schedules. This information can all help you be more prepared for delays.
The types of materials you choose can greatly affect both the cost and the aesthetic of your renovation. You can go cheaper or more expensive, but make sure they fit what you want and how much money you can spend. This way, your house will look good without going over budget.
You might want to save money by doing some things cheaply. But be careful. Important elements like the wiring or the strength of the building should not be skimped on. It's good to spend more money on these vital aspects and save money on less important areas. This way, your house will still have a safe structure that you can enjoy for years to come.
An often overlooked aspect is the sustainability of your renovation. Things that save energy will make a big difference to costs and energy efficiency, for example, using bamboo or cork insulation. You could even put in solar panels. Doing this is not just good for the environment but can also save you money in the long run. So, it's a win-win to think about being eco-friendly when renovating a house.
CODA Bespoke is a Sheffield-based, award-winning architectural firm dedicated to bringing your dream home to life. Specialising in high-quality designs, innovative approaches and exceptional customer service, we are your go-to experts for every phase of your home renovation project.
To discuss your ideas and options, contact the friendly team at CODA Bespoke. You can also explore our rich online portfolio to view past renovation projects that we've successfully transformed.
