Haddonstone And Shorewood Homes Lay The Foundations For A Firm Relationship

Shorewood Homes demonstrates an architectural ethos that juxtaposes classical with contemporary, balancing modern trends with historic detailing to create homes that are timeless, stylish, practical, and luxurious. The company’s design philosophy takes inspiration from period architecture which harmonises beautifully with the traditional character of Winchester.

In Brunswick Gardens, each property is as visually elegant on the exterior as it is beautifully designed internally. Haddonstone supplied various bespoke façade stonework elements including cast stone porticos for each property, comprising two Tuscan-style columns, Tuscan capital details and bases, structural architrave and cornice entablature.

All Regency-inspired portico components were handcrafted using TecStone wet-cast limestone in Portland colour. Haddonstone also supplied the full suite of window dressing cast stone components while wall dressings included cast stone pier caps, straight and angled copings, and string courses.

Here, Shorewood Homes talks about the company's first-time experience of working with Haddonstone, and the start of what promises to be a beautiful relationship.

Why did you specify Haddonstone over other cast stone manufacturers? What were the main factors that influenced your decision?

We approached three companies at tender stage; Haddonstone was highly recommended by our architect, and the recommendation proved a valuable one in terms of cost-effectiveness, production expertise and design ability.

Haddonstone describes your style at the prestigious Brunswick Gardens development as having a “Regency architectural influence” which you put to good effect on each property to create an elegant exterior. What made that style particularly suitable for this development?

Winchester City, the local area of this development, is predominantly known for beautiful Regency architecture and prestigious homes. In the immediate area, there have been multiple small developments over the last decade. We were keen for our development to stand tall against others and showcase Shorewood Homes and our ability to build traditional homes which honour the location.  Haddonstone’s experience and pedigree were crucial here.

Have you incorporated this style into previous developments or does each project start as a blank canvas?

Previously, we have used stone elements such as porticos at entrances, along with window headers and sills. New mouldings were produced specifically for the cornicing and parapet wall cappings at this development. These high-level classical are integral to the final prestigious look of the properties and we will continue to work with Haddonstone on exciting projects.

Why did you choose a Portland colour for the stonework?

Portland stone is our preferred choice of colour and texture and is very much in keeping with the local area.

How does the design process work?

We have one in-house architect who takes the design brief from our company director, and inspiration from the local area.

What is the process with Haddonstone - from design, production, and delivery?

From the initial quotation based on the drawings, we maintained a close collaboration with Haddonstone’s project manager, which included reviewing and adapting designs to suit available moulds and assessing alternative options. This collaborative approach continued throughout the build programme between Shorewood Homes, the project manager and the site team.

How involved is your team with each stage?

Tender and commercial review is undertaken by the company director, procurement manager, and architect. Once approved and ordered in accordance with the build programme, the procurement manager and architect remain involved to support the delivery of the stone.

Were there any challenges at Brunswick Gardens that Haddonstone helped you overcome?

We had to overcome a few challenges at Brunswick Gardens largely due to space restrictions and the ability to store the stone once delivered and prior to installation. Haddonstone was helpful in holding stock back and delivering at a later stage.

Would you use Haddonstone stonework for other developments? Have you any types of projects in mind?

Brunswick Gardens looks stunning, relationships were built and we believe Haddonstone will be a positive partner in future projects. 

What were you particularly impressed or pleased with about working with Haddonstone?

Strong relationships are fundamental to the successful delivery of materials. While Brunswick Gardens was a complex and challenging project, the ongoing open communication with the Haddonstone team has been key. We will invite them to tender on future projects of course.

Can you tell us anything about the next project?

We are already in discussions with Haddonstone regarding our next project and are currently reviewing stone options for what will be Shorewood Homes’ largest development to date - a scheme of 48 prestigious homes in Winchester.

For further information, call 01604 770711 or visit www.haddonstone.com