While it’s tempting to dive straight in (creating Pinterest boards, ordering samples and consulting builders) the value of a skilled architect shouldn’t be underestimated. At CODA Bespoke, we believe great design starts not with a floor plan, but with a conversation. Here’s why hiring a skilled architect represents immeasurable value for your home project:
You may know how you want your space to feel. You might even have a list of must-haves. But translating these ideas into a cohesive, functional and beautiful design takes more than a mood board.
An experienced architect brings both creative insight and practical expertise to the table. We see possibilities where others see problems, like transforming awkward footprints into fluid spaces or framing views you didn’t know you had. And when it comes to finding the balance between aesthetic aspirations and everyday use? A skilled architect is an invaluable investment. Because for great architects it’s not just about designing something that looks good. It’s about designing a home that lives well.
One of the greatest benefits of working with a skilled architect is personalisation. No two families live the same way, and no two homes should feel the same.
Do you love to entertain? Welcoming a new addition to the family like our Carter Knowle Road clients, or need flexible spaces for growing children? Crave a quiet nook away from the bustle of daily life? These nuances guide everything, from orientation and flow to material choices and joinery.
A skilled architect will take the time to understand how you live, not just how your house will look. The result? A space that reflects your routines, your values and most importantly, your story.
Builders and tradespeople play a crucial role in bringing a project to life. But architects? They approach the project holistically. That means considering structure, light, materials, movement, energy use, landscape and, crucially, how all these elements interact.
We don’t think in silos. We consider the entire ecosystem of your home. That includes:
It’s this orchestration that sets exceptional homes apart. They don’t feel pieced together. They feel seamless.
Planning permission in the UK can be complex. Especially for listed buildings, conservation areas or self-builds on sensitive sites. A skilled architect doesn’t just draw plans. They manage the process from start to finish.
We speak the language of local authorities, understand the nuances of planning law and anticipate objections before they arise. We know when a design needs to stand firm and when to adjust to meet policy.
Our approach is always proactive, not reactive. It’s about guiding your project smoothly through the red tape so that momentum is never lost, and neither is the vision. Our award-winning 119 Park Road project in Timperley is a prime example of how with the right architect, the past and present can coexist beautifully (and of course, tick all the bureaucratic boxes).
There’s a misconception that hiring an architect is a luxury reserved for grand designs. But in truth, a skilled architect can save you money, maximise space and add long-term value to your property, often far beyond the initial design fee.
How?
In short: a good architect doesn’t just cost. They pay dividends.
A skilled architect knows the best homes are more than architectural statements. They’re spaces where function and form are so well balanced, you can’t tell where one ends and the other begins.
That’s where architectural training and experience come in. We’re constantly navigating competing demands (like regulations, client desires, budget constraints and structural realities) and distilling them into simple, elegant solutions.
Need to hide a utility room? We’ll fold it into a panelling feature. Want floor-to-ceiling glass but maintain energy efficiency? We’ll specify the right glazing system. Looking for genuine wow factor? We’ll make that glass-walled wine cellar and winter Arctic snug set over a garden stream (yes, we did that) happen.
Sustainable design isn’t about ticking boxes or chasing trends. It’s about building homes that respect both the environment and the people who live in them.
From air-tight detailing to low-carbon materials and passive solar design, a skilled architect can integrate sustainability into the bones of your home. Not just as an afterthought, but as part of the architecture itself.
At CODA Bespoke, we believe that future-facing design shouldn’t feel cold or clinical. It should feel warm, lived-in and timeless. That’s why we take care to balance efficiency with atmosphere.
Perhaps the most overlooked benefit of hiring an architect is the relationship itself. When you work with a practice like CODA Bespoke, you’re not hiring a draughtsperson. You’re starting a creative collaboration.
We guide, suggest, challenge and refine. We listen just as much as we draw. And we’re there, at every step, to make sure the end result isn’t just a home that looks right, but one that feels uniquely you.
This kind of partnership builds trust, momentum and joy in the process. And that’s what makes for not just a successful project, but a truly meaningful one.
Hiring a skilled architect isn’t about adding an extra step. It’s about setting the foundation for everything else. From securing planning permission to curating light, scale, material and mood, the right architect brings clarity, creativity and cohesion to your project.
At CODA Bespoke, we design homes that respond to the way you live. Spaces that feel rooted, resonant and truly yours. Whether you’re reworking a listed property or planning a bold new build, we’ll help you unlock its full potential.
Ready to bring your vision to life? Let’s talk.
Do you preserve the existing structure and attempt to enhance both form and function? Or is a fresh start the better route? Complete freedom to design a home that aligns entirely with your vision?
At CODA Bespoke, we know every home (and every homeowner) is unique. The right approach depends on lifestyle, sustainability, cost and of course, the architectural potential of the existing property.
Here’s what to weigh up when making your decision.
Retrofitting is about updating an existing structure. The goal is to improve aesthetics, performance and efficiency while honouring its architectural roots. It’s particularly suited to period homes, where preserving character is just as important as functionality.
Here’s why retrofitting is a popular route for many homeowners:
Preserves character and craftsmanship
From Victorian terraces and Georgian townhouses to centuries-old barns with enormous potential, many British homes boast period details that simply can’t be replicated. Retrofitting allows you to retain original features like sash windows, ornate cornices, ceiling roses and exposed beams, while introducing contemporary comforts.
A more sustainable choice
Demolition generates a huge amount of waste. A retrofit retains much of a home’s embodied carbon, making it a more eco-conscious solution. Thoughtful upgrades, like improved insulation, draught-proofing and energy-efficient glazing, can transform an older home’s performance.
Fewer planning restrictions
If your property is listed or located in a conservation area, a full rebuild might not be an option. Retrofitting offers a way to modernise while working within local regulations.
Potentially more cost-effective
Structural changes can get expensive, fast. Working with an existing framework can reduce material costs and streamline approvals compared to a complete rebuild.
Best for:
Sometimes, starting from scratch is the best option. A complete rebuild removes design constraints and allows for a fully tailored home. Whether that’s a sleek, contemporary space or a modern interpretation of a traditional aesthetic (like the stunning Belgrave project in South West Sheffield) the choice is completely yours.
Complete design freedom
A rebuild gives you full control over layout, materials and architectural style. Whether you want high ceilings, an open-plan concept or integrated smart technology, nothing is dictated by an existing structure.
Superior energy performance
New builds can achieve Passivhaus standards or net-zero energy credentials from the outset. With airtight construction, advanced insulation and renewable energy integration, they surpass the efficiency of most retrofitted homes.
Lower maintenance costs
With entirely new electrics, plumbing and materials, a new home sidesteps many of the upkeep concerns associated with older properties. No damp, no outdated wiring, no costly structural surprises.
Higher resale value potential
A well-designed new home, particularly in a sought-after location, can command a higher market value and make it a strong long-term investment.
Best for:
The cost-effectiveness of each approach depends on the property’s current condition and the level of transformation required.
| Factor | Retrofitting | Rebuilding |
| Initial cost | Generally lower | Higher upfront due to demolition and materials |
| Long-term savings | Dependent on energy upgrades | Lower maintenance and better efficiency |
| Resale value | Can add value if done sensitively | Often higher, especially with a well-designed home |
| Planning Process | Easier for listed buildings & conservation areas | Stricter regulations, longer approvals |
For many homeowners, a retrofit offers a balance of cost, sustainability and architectural integrity. That said, if a property is poorly designed or structurally unsound, rebuilding might be the wiser long-term investment.
Both approaches have environmental pros and cons. Retrofitting reduces demolition waste and preserves embodied carbon, but a poorly performing older home may require such extensive upgrades that a new build, designed for generations of efficiency, becomes the greener choice.
Ultimately, the decision between retrofitting and rebuilding depends on your home’s existing condition, your aspirations and how you balance historical integrity with embracing the future.
Choose a retrofit if: You love your home’s character and want to enhance it while improving efficiency.
Choose a rebuild if: You need total design control, superior energy performance or a long-term investment that justifies the cost.
At CODA Bespoke, we help homeowners navigate this decision with a design-led approach that prioritises luxury, sustainability and longevity. Whether you’re breathing new life into a cherished home or creating something entirely new, we craft spaces that fit your lifestyle.
One trend we’ve noticed? Increasingly, projects blend both approaches. At CODA Bespoke, we don’t believe in rigid categories. Our work is driven by innovation and personalisation, not limitations. Some homes call for a sensitive retrofit with carefully considered new additions, while others benefit from a rebuild that repurposes materials and preserves meaningful architectural details.
As shown in projects like Belgrave Road, which saw the split-level home reimagined with a series of transformative extensions and architectural upgrades, the best solution isn’t always either-or. It’s the one that creates a space perfectly suited to its owners, respecting both the past and the future.
Considering a retrofit, rebuild or a fusion of both? Get in touch and let’s start designing your dream home today.
At CODA Bespoke, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Great design is deeply personal and should respond to both architecture and the way people inhabit a space. Whether a home is minimalist or grandly expressive, success lies in balance, cohesion and the smallest, most thoughtful details.
So, what makes a truly well-designed home? Beyond high ceilings and statement furniture, here’s what sets exceptional homes apart.
Moving through a home with intention.
Every home tells a story, and movement through that space is the narrative. A well-designed home like Sandygate guides you effortlessly from room to room, shaping experiences along the way.
Flow isn’t just about open-plan layouts. In fact, some of the most beautifully designed homes use considered transitions. Think hallways that reveal framed views, changes in ceiling height that create intimacy and sightlines that connect spaces without forcing them open.
A home should unfold naturally, revealing itself at the right pace. Too open, and spaces lose definition. Too segmented, and movement feels forced. A good architect can help you strike a perfect balance.
A well-designed home doesn’t just let light in. It orchestrates it.
Light transforms a home. It shapes how a space feels at different times of the day, how colours shift and how textures come to life.
Designing with light means understanding how it interacts with materials, surfaces and architectural details. It’s not just about brightness. It’s about creating mood, atmosphere and drama.
The silent markers of luxury.
You may not always notice proportions, but you feel them. A well-designed home gets them just right.
The best designs use scale with intent. It’s all about creating volume where it matters, cosiness where it’s needed and a sense of spatial equilibrium throughout.
A well-designed home isn’t just about how things look but how they feel.
Timeless interiors prioritise materials with depth, warmth and a tangible presence.
A well-designed home like the Corn Yard in Sheffield respects its materials. It doesn’t chase trends but instead celebrates finishes that will only grow more beautiful with time.
Good design isn’t just about beauty. It makes life effortless.
A well-designed home considers how people actually live.
The lesson? Practicality doesn’t mean sacrificing beauty. The best spaces make both a priority.
A home should feel anchored, whether it stands in the countryside, by the coast or in the heart of a city.
Great design respects its setting and aims to blend seamlessly into its surrounding environment, rather than impose itself.
A well-designed home isn’t just architecturally sound. It’s deeply personal.
Personalisation is about curating it with intent, not filling a space for the sake of it.
At CODA Bespoke, design is never just about trends. It’s about creating spaces that incorporate all of the above into the very fabric of the home. Ready to create a home where every detail feels right? Brief us today and let’s start designing.
From eco-friendly building materials to modern interpretations of timeless elements, this year’s trends redefine what it means to live beautifully and sustainably.
Here’s a taster of what we’re most excited about:
Net-zero homes are no longer anomalies featured on shows like Grand Designs. Sustainability has become a mainstream aspiration. Thanks to renewable technologies like discreet solar roof tiles and ground-source heat pumps, new builds in 2025 will generate as much energy as they consume. Simultaneously, solutions like triple-glazed windows and advanced insulation materials will deliver outstanding energy efficiency.
Favouring characterful building materials with low carbon footprints, like locally sourced timber and reclaimed brick, is another way we’ll see architects embrace sustainability in 2025.
Biophilic design is all about connecting to the natural world. Design techniques like maximising natural light, incorporating living plants and championing organic materials help invite Mother Nature into indoor living spaces.
You don’t need a rural property like the Yorkshire Farmhouse with expansive views of fields and woodlands to embrace biophilic design. With clever design, you can connect with nature anywhere. Yes, even in the heart of cities like London and Sheffield. Incorporating features like vertical gardens, indoor courtyards, green roofs or honey-hued cedar cladding can transform even the most urban of city dwellings into a serene retreat.
The need for adaptable living spaces continues to grow as people balance work and leisure at home. Rooms designed to serve multiple purposes promise practicality without compromising style or comfort.
Innovations like sliding walls, foldaway desks and custom joinery lead the way in flexible design. These solutions often require a custom approach, but the results speak for themselves: flexibility can virtually double your usable floor space and transform how a home works for you.
Smart homes are synonymous with modern luxury. The focus in 2025 lies in seamless integration, enhancing daily life without drawing attention to technology. Think underfloor heating controlled via an app, hidden ceiling speakers and automated lighting systems that adjust throughout the day.
Home exteriors are becoming bold yet rooted in local heritage. Architects use materials reflecting the surrounding environment, creating contemporary designs that remain contextually grounded.
For example, East Anglia homes built with flint capture the region’s historic character, while properties in the Lake District feature slate exteriors. Textured façades and asymmetrical forms can be an interesting way to balance modernity and tradition.
Homes built in 2025 will continue to nurture physical and mental well-being. Incorporating features like spa-inspired bathrooms, meditation rooms and private gyms creates spaces dedicated to relaxation and rejuvenation.
Design has a big role to play, with elements like larger windows to maximise natural light and thoughtful layouts to promote air circulation helping to transform homes into personal sanctuaries.
The tiny home movement continues to thrive, particularly in urban areas where space is limited. These compact spaces are defined by meticulous craftsmanship and clever design.
Custom-built storage solutions, multi-functional furniture and high-quality materials create an illusion of openness and luxury. Compact homes prove that even small spaces can feel expansive and elegant when designed thoughtfully.
Off-grid living is winning hearts and minds as people seek greater independence from the modern, tech-saturated world. For example, advances in renewable energy and water harvesting make it easier to build self-sufficient homes that don’t scrimp on comfort. These types of projects prove that self-reliance can be as luxurious as it is sustainable.
The use of curved and flowing forms is softening the sharp lines often seen in modernist design. In 2025 expect to see rounded windows, arched doorways and curved walls used to add warmth and movement to a space.
This trend extends to interiors with circular dining tables, crescent-shaped sofas and sculptural lighting.
Modern home design has found its sweet spot in 2025, where the beauty of local craftsmanship meets the excitement of global inspiration. In projects like Tolan House, hand-built oak stairs and walkways lend a sense of English heritage, but are beautifully juxtaposed with polished concrete floors and work tops. This thoughtful fusion of tradition and innovation helps create homes that feel deeply personal and authentically luxurious.
This year’s design palette leans into earthy tones like Pantone 17-1230 Mocha Mousse and Benjamin Moore’s Cinnamon Slate. Yes, they’re brown – but they’re anything but boring. These shades bring warmth and depth to any home and are perfect for creating interiors that feel both grounded and luxurious.
To elevate these tones, pair them with soft neutrals, like cream or taupe, and textural contrasts such as boucle, velvet or butter-soft leather. Add a touch of glamour and dimension with metallic accents like brushed brass or antique bronze.
Mass timber construction leads the architectural shift of 2025. Sustainable building no longer feels utilitarian, with prefabricated wood panels like cross-laminated timber (CLT) blending eco-consciousness and cutting-edge design. For those seeking homes with standout appeal and minimal environmental impact, this method sets a new standard.
Why is mass timber construction so progressive? It delivers sustainability, efficiency and beauty in equal measure. Timber, as a renewable resource with carbon-sequestering properties, offers a clear solution for reducing the environmental footprint of a build. Meanwhile, its clean lines and natural warmth tick the aesthetic boxes and elevate it far beyond the "green" label.
Efficiency also plays a role. Prefabricated panels accelerate on-site assembly and reduce build times, ensuring high standards remain intact.
At CODA Bespoke, we’ll absolutely be drawing inspiration from the top home build, architecture and design trends of 2025. But timeless design will always remain our priority. So, rather than chasing trends, we craft spaces that champion longevity, luxury and authenticity to the client.
To us, true luxury means living in spaces tailored to your needs. Ready to bring your vision to life? Contact us today and let’s start designing your dream home in 2025.
Once considered a purely functional space to park cars and store tools, the humble garage is being reimagined as a bona fide extension of the home. What does this mean for luxury car enthusiasts? With the right approach, your garage can be a showroom, a sanctuary, and even a statement of your own identity.
At CODA Bespoke, we thrive on these transformations.
From sleek, minimalist spaces designed to showcase modern supercars to expansive subterranean havens for a collection of vintage classics, thoughtful design can push the limits of what a garage can be.
Rethinking the purpose of the garage is the first step in its transformation. Garages are traditionally an afterthought – plain, functional spaces relegated to the sidelines of architectural design. A new era of modern, luxury living has shifted this perception dramatically.
With thoughtful planning, the garage can serve not only as a storage solution but as an opportunity to showcase your luxury car collection in a space designed with the same care and precision as the rest of your home.
This reinvention of the garage is especially appealing for owners of luxury vehicles. After all, cars like Ferraris, Bentleys and Aston Martins are more than modes of transport. They’re works of art in themselves.
Whatever your vice, whether it’s a vintage, hand-built Rolls-Royce Phantom or a jewel-toned Lamborghini, luxury cars are engineering marvels. Here’s how to transform your garage into a showroom that celebrates their beauty and craftsmanship:
Transformations start with an evaluation of your garage’s existing layout and potential. A showroom garage calls for more than just square footage. It demands a design that’s both functional and luxurious.
Lighting is a crucial design element of any space – garages included. Use lighting to create ambience and draw attention to the finer details of your vehicles.
The materials you choose set the tone for your garage’s transformation. For a high-end feel, invest in quality, durable finishes that can withstand wear and tear without sacrificing style.
Smart technology can further transform your garage from a functional space into a state-of-the-art showroom. Beyond aesthetics, these innovations bring convenience, security and functionality to your garage.
The average car can be parked on the street, no questions asked. Luxury cars are different. Many require specific environmental conditions to maintain their pristine state. Installing climate control systems ensures the temperature and humidity levels are optimal year-round and can help prevent issues like rust or interior damage.
App-controlled lighting systems allow you to adjust brightness and colour temperature to suit different occasions.
Luxury cars come with luxury price tags which means advanced security features are a must. High-definition CCTV cameras, motion sensors and biometric access controls help safeguard your collection from theft or damage and of course, offer peace of mind.
For avid collectors with multiple vehicles, incorporating a hydraulic lift can double your storage capacity.
At CODA Bespoke, we believe the cars themselves should inform the design of the space. Here’s some food for thought:
No luxury showroom is complete without the finer details that elevate the space. Take your space to the next level and consider incorporating:
Create a comfortable seating area where you can relax, entertain guests or discuss your collection. Think high-end furnishings like leather chairs, Persian rugs and a marble coffee table.
For the ultimate indulgence, include a small bar or coffee station, complete with custom cabinetry and integrated appliances.
Whether you’re listening to your favourite Spotify playlist while tinkering with your cars or hosting a private gathering, a high-quality audio system can work wonders for the ambience of your garage.
At CODA Bespoke, we pride ourselves on creating tailored garage transformation solutions that merge architecture and artistry. Get in touch today and let our expertise in bespoke architecture bring every detail to life and deliver results beyond expectations on your extension or new-build project.
Exceptional home design is about creating spaces that reflect your personality, cater to your lifestyle and feel effortlessly luxurious.
The good news? It’s easier than you might think. Below, we reveal seven secrets to achieving exceptional home design.
A seamless flow from room to room is at the heart of exceptional home design. After all, homes are functional spaces, so it makes sense to prioritise movement. Think about how you move through each space daily, considering your routines and which areas you gravitate towards.
Using your insight, define clear pathways that make it easy to move from one area to another. In open-plan homes, use simple design elements like rugs or strategic furniture placement to define spaces without breaking the flow.
Emphasise functionality by planning rooms around their primary use. If you entertain frequently, prioritise spacious common areas. Good flow means that every room has its own purpose, and each space transitions naturally to the next.
Humans are inherently attracted to nature. There’s even a scientific word for it – biophilia. Exceptional home design recognises and celebrates this innate human characteristic. There’s a term for that too – biophilic design.
Welcoming nature into your home is a powerful way to enhance comfort and create a calming atmosphere.
Lighting is one of the most transformative elements of home design. It sets the tone of a space and ensures each room is both beautiful and functional. A layered lighting plan incorporates different types of lighting – ambient, task and accent – to create depth and interest.
A thoughtful colour palette is the hallmark of an exceptional home. Trends come and go but a classic colour wheel serves as a versatile canvas that can evolve with your taste over time.
Neutrals like warm whites, soft greys and taupes create a sophisticated backdrop that’s easy to build upon with pops of colour. You can’t go wrong with timeless favourites like White Dove by Benjamin Moore and Ammonite by Farrow & Ball.
The secret to exceptional home design lies in choosing high-quality materials. Instead of blindly following fleeting trends, invest in materials that look and feel premium. Not only will they stand the test of time, but they’ll also add a tactile quality that elevates your home.
Natural stones like marble or granite promise a sense of luxury while being incredibly durable. Use them indoors as well as out. Take the meticulous, jigsaw-inspired stonework of our Yorkshire Farm House project. It wasn’t the most budget-friendly option by a long shot. But this beautiful, carefully crafted stonework is what lifts the property into a league of its own, blending artistry with durability in a way that feels exceptional in every sense of the word.
Additionally, solid wood cabinetry, furniture and floors bring warmth, depth and longevity to your home. Handcrafted details like custom joinery or artisanal tiles add a personal touch that makes your home truly unique.
Yes, choosing quality materials is an investment. But their durability and aesthetic impact make them worth every penny. If there’s a choice between increasing your square footage or splurging on high-end materials, quality wins every time.
Exceptional design is personal. It tells your story and captures snapshots of your journey, passions and personality.
Personal touches create a home that feels curated and intentional, rather than simply styled.
Beauty matters, yes. But exceptional home design is more than skin deep. Every decision should aim to enhance the way you live and create spaces that make your day-to-day easier. A thoughtful layout is the key to making sure your home is as inviting as it is beautiful.
We can’t emphasise this enough – exceptional home design isn’t about following strict rules or current trends. It’s about creating a space that feels authentic to you. From establishing a natural flow to integrating quality materials, every design choice should be authentic and aim to enhance both form and function.
At CODA Bespoke, we’re passionate about curating homes that reflect the lives, aspirations and wildest dreams of our clients. Whether you’re renovating a period property that’s brimming with potential, planning an ambitious extension or spearheading a new build that pushes the limits of contemporary design, our team of in-house architects and designers is here to bring your vision to life and create spaces that are truly exceptional.
Contact us today to learn more about our full-service architectural design and delivery service.
Or maybe you’d prefer a morning workout in your private gym – bathed in natural light, with everything just where you need it.
This is exactly the experience you can create when you master the art of home wellness.
Designing a home wellness retreat isn’t just about practicality. It’s about creating a space that reflects your lifestyle and idea of luxury.
Yes, it’s absolutely possible – no matter what type of space you’re working with…
Maybe you're living in a compact terrace house in London and want to maximise every inch of space. Or perhaps you own a period property in the countryside and dream of integrating modern wellness facilities while preserving its character. You could even be starting from scratch with a new build and dreaming of something that’s never been done before.
Whatever your vision, CODA Bespoke can bring it to life by combining intelligent design with a deep understanding of how spaces should feel and function. The result? Beautiful, invigorating environments where exceptional architecture meets everyday wellness.
Here's what we keep in mind when designing luxury spa and gym retreat spaces:
One of the secrets to designing a successful home wellness retreat at home is flow. You’ll want your gym to be a space where you can push your limits, feel energised and breathe freely without having to second guess your path. This is where high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows and a connection to nature come in. Large windows not only invite natural light but also energise the space.
Transitioning into the spa, the mood should shift. Here, the goal is to create a sense of calm. Clever design elements like sliding doors or textured partitions can be used to softly divide zones while keeping the space cohesive. The movement between gym and spa should be seamless, almost intuitive. This way you can switch effortlessly from exertion to relaxation.
Lighting plays a critical role in shaping the feel of your wellness spaces. In the gym, maximise natural light wherever possible. Large skylights or east-facing windows can make all the difference if you’re a morning workout person. Sunlight is the perfect early-morning energy boost, before you’ve even broken a sweat. Of course, if you want to maximise sunlight throughout the day, prioritise south-facing windows.
Artificial lighting should be bright but not harsh – strategically placed to maintain that open, airy atmosphere even after the sun has set.
Over in the spa, however, you can achieve something entirely different. Here, it’s all about soft, diffused lighting. Dimmable options allow you to create a calming glow while hidden LEDs, behind mirrors or under countertops, can highlight architectural features without being intrusive. And if you really want to take it up a notch, consider a lighting system that adapts to your mood or time of day. Bright when you need it, calm when you don’t.
Our recent Yorkshire Farm House build, which features a subterranean swimming pool and spa facilities, is a stunning example of the importance of light in design.
When it comes to materials, think natural and luxurious. A wellness retreat should feel indulgent, without being ostentatious. Polished wooden floors or sustainable cork work well in gyms and are both stylish and functional. Wood adds warmth and comfort, while cork offers a soft underfoot feel, perfect for those barefoot yoga sessions or cool-down stretches. In contrast, your spa should incorporate sleek stone surfaces like limestone, marble and travertine. Or if you’re after an ultra-modern look, consider polished concrete.
Don’t be scared to think outside the box when choosing materials. Take the award-winning Corn Yard Sheffield project, for instance. The spa-inspired bathrooms feel incredibly luxurious but utilise unique design elements like exposed copper pipes to infuse personality into the space.
A well-designed wellness retreat bridges the gap between indoors and outdoors. Work with what you have to blur the boundaries and invite nature into your space. Maybe it’s a gym that opens onto a private terrace or garden, where you can take your morning yoga practice outside. Or perhaps a spa room that maximises views of a lush, secluded garden.
Bi-fold doors or expansive windows invite nature inside and keep the design grounded. Integrating greenery into the interior spaces – whether through potted plants, living walls, or simply a carefully framed view – helps maintain a sense of calm.
Not sure if your property has the right bones? With a good architect on your team, even the most challenging spaces can be transformed into wellness sanctuaries.
No luxury wellness retreat is complete without the right finishing touches. Investing in high-end equipment for the gym is a must. Sleek, minimalist machines, nothing clunky or oversized, will keep the space looking polished. Add extra functionality with custom storage solutions that keep weights, yoga mats and towels neatly out of sight.
Indulgence is key for the spa. Splurge on oversized, ultra-soft bath sheets and robes made from long-staple organic cotton. Stock the shelves with bath products from your favourite artisanal brands. We’re talking handcrafted soaps, rich essential oils and bath salts that transport you to a world far beyond the bathroom.
Designing a spa and gym retreat in your home isn’t about creating a separate “workout space” or a functional bathroom with a tub. It’s about thoughtfully blending architecture and design to curate a personal sanctuary where wellness becomes part of everyday life.
The real luxury lies in the details. Spaces that flow with ease, materials that soothe and inspire, and a design that marries functionality with understated elegance. Ultimately your spa and gym retreat should be a space designed for you. Tailored to your lifestyle and built around your vision of well-being.
This is where CODA Bespoke excels. Ready to create your own sanctuary? Send us your brief and we’ll get in touch to discuss how to make your home wellness dreams a reality.
You’ve got the vision, but who’s going to bring it all together? Enter the concept of turnkey design and build. This streamlined, all-in-one approach takes the stress out of your project and delivers the keys to a beautifully finished home.
It’s not for everyone and yes, it’s an investment. But for many British visionaries, it’s the secret to transforming ideas to reality. Intrigued? Keep reading to learn more about this holistic model and discover why it’s the ultimate choice for creating bespoke, luxury spaces.
Turnkey design and build is exactly what it sounds like. A complete service that covers everything from the first spark of inspiration to the final finishing touches of your new home.
Imagine handing over your project wish list and letting a single, dedicated team manage every aspect of the build. Architectural design, planning permissions, construction, interior finishing and more – it’s all overseen by a single entity.
You get to step into a fully realised, move-in-ready space. It’s about as hands-off as a home transformation can get, without losing an ounce of personalisation.
Unlike the traditional approach, where you might play the middleman between architects, designers and builders, a turnkey approach keeps it all under one roof. It’s your vision, executed by professionals.
Here’s what to expect when you take a turnkey design and build approach with CODA Bespoke:
It all starts with a conversation. We get to know you, your lifestyle, your tastes and what you’re hoping to achieve. This is where your dreams start to take shape as our design team unpacks your style, functionality, needs and any standout features you’ve got your heart set on.
Whether it’s a central, triple-height glazed atrium as seen in our Hale Barns superhome or a commitment to using raw, untreated materials and energy-efficient solutions like our award-winning Corn Yard project, we dive deep to capture your unique vision, from the grand to the subtle.
Next, the magic happens on paper. Our designers pull together concept sketches, 3D visuals and mood boards to capture your vision. It’s about refining the finer details until everything feels just right.
With the concept nailed down, we move into the nitty-gritty. Every line, curve and detail are considered during this stage. This is where we craft precise architectural drawings, select premium materials and handle planning permissions. The last one is a gamechanger and will save you serious headaches, especially when dealing with complex regulations for heritage properties or big projects that push the boundaries of design.
When it’s time to break ground, our construction team steps in to manage every aspect of the build with precision and care. Design and build are seamlessly integrated, so we work hard to keep communication as open as possible during this stage.
Turnkey design and build is especially beneficial for projects that use unconventional materials, like this Sheffield stunner that champions a mix of copper and stone to create a serious street presence.
As the structure takes shape, our interior design team gets to work. From designing custom cabinetry and sourcing the perfect reclaimed timber beam to installing statement lighting and coordinating soft furnishings, it’s all curated with your tastes in mind. Be as involved or as distanced as you like. It’s completely up to you.
The best part? When every last detail is perfected, we hand you the keys. It’s a big reveal moment where your house truly becomes your home, ready to be lived in and loved.
Why invest in a turnkey design and build experience?
Forget managing multiple contacts, juggling schedules and coordinating contractors. With turnkey design and build a single point of contact oversees the entire project from start to finish.
Every project has its challenges, but a turnkey team spots potential issues early. This means there’s time to iron out wrinkles before they become costly setbacks. Our cohesive approach means timelines stay tight, budgets are respected, and you get a finished product that truly reflects the value of your investment.
Design isn’t just about pretty pictures. It’s about creating a story. Your story. With turnkey design and build, that story remains consistent throughout the process.
Quality isn’t just a promise with a turnkey design and build service from CODA Bespoke. It’s a guarantee. Our hands-on approach ensures that every stage is managed with an eye for detail. This includes sourcing only the finest materials and the most skilled craftsmen. Expect luxury, down to the last nail. At the end of the day, our goal is to create spaces that are not only visually stunning but built to last.
Renovations shouldn’t feel like a second job. Turnkey design and build gives you permission to kick back while we handle the heavy lifting. No headaches, no endless decision-making. By choosing our turnkey service, you’re handing the reins to a team that lives and breathes high-end design. We take care of the complexities, so you can enjoy the transformation.
At CODA Bespoke, our turnkey design and build service is about more than just convenience. Our goal is to create an experience tailored entirely to you. We take a client-first philosophy which means you’re at the heart of everything we do. From the initial consultation to the final handover, your vision drives the project. We don’t just build houses. We craft homes that feel truly yours.
So, whether you’re looking to blend the old with the new, spearhead a complete renovation or build from the ground up, our turnkey design and build service ensures your journey is as beautiful as the end result. Brief us on your project today to get started.
Think of the Shard in London. More than 160 drilled piles anchor the towering, 310-metre-tall building to the bedrock of the British capital. Or the ancient stone strip foundations of York Minster, a building that’s been standing strong for centuries. These examples prove that choosing the right foundation type is critical, not just for iconic buildings like the Shard and York Minster but for high-end British homes.
Whether you’re preserving a piece of history with a luxury barn conversion project or creating a striking contemporary masterpiece in a protected conservation area, understanding the pros and cons of different house foundation types is the key to choosing the perfect base for your dream home.
This is one of the most common house foundation types in the UK and features a continuous strip of concrete laid beneath load-bearing walls.
Raft foundations, also called mat foundations, rely on a large concrete slab to spread the building's load across the entire foundation. When it comes to support, they’re one of the best house foundation types.
When the soil near the surface isn’t strong enough to support a large structure, pile foundations come into play. Long cylinders of concrete, steel or wood are driven deep into the ground to support the building.
Pad foundations see individual concrete blocks placed under each load-bearing point. For example, columns or beams.
Basement foundations serve a dual purpose. They provide a solid base and create additional living or storage space below ground level.
Screw piles are steel shafts with helical plates, akin to giant screws. They’re driven into the ground and require minimal materials, winning them environmental kudos.
At CODA Bespoke, we believe that every foundation should be tailored to suit the unique requirements of the project. And if this means digging a little deeper to really understand the needs of the client and bring their vision to life, we’re up for the challenge. It’s this = attention to detail that ensures every CODA Bespoke home stand strong for generations to come.
To explore more of our work and how we can help you lay the perfect foundation for your dream home, visit our portfolio.
