Regency architecture attracts buyers

The traditional design of a new homes development in Leamington Spa has been attracting buyers looking for a modern home that still feels ‘old’. Barratt Mercia’s Regency Gardens scheme on the Kenilworth Road fit the bill for first-time buyers Ranjeev Atwal and his wife Gursharan Hir, both 31, who fell in love with its period design.

The development, which comprises both houses and apartments has been designed to compliment the local Spa-town architecture. Features include terraced townhouses with elegant clean lines and Juliette balconies, a villa-style house incorporating the apartments and a communal garden – all of which are synonymous with English Regency architecture.

Ranjeev and Gursharan chose to buy their first home - a two-bedroom apartment - at Regency Gardens after 10 years of renting, much of which was spent in the capital. Ranjeev said, “We’re both originally from Leamington and since leaving university have moved about all over the country. We’ve experienced living in all kinds of properties from super contemporary apartments in central London to living with family in a Glasgow suburb.

“We knew it was high time to settle down and get on the property ladder but the ‘stylish’ city-life that most young professionals seem to go for just didn’t appeal. Our preference has always been for a more traditional-looking home yet we still wanted all the contemporary trappings of a modern property. In addition our first home had to be an apartment because as new buyers we knew it was going to be near impossible to find a house in our price range in the centre of Leamington.”

The Regency Gardens apartments particularly appealed to the couple because of the exterior design of the buildings but also because of the more traditional layout inside. Their apartment features a separate kitchen, located off the central hallway and a living/dining room, plus two bedrooms and a bathroom. Ranjeev continued, “We really like the fact the kitchen isn’t open plan, it makes the space feel much bigger and it’s nice to keep the cooking area away from the living space.”

Ranjeev and Gursharan’s apartment is also ideal for them since the pair have recently opened up a new business in the town and getting to and from work easily was very important. ‘Rasoi’, which means kitchen in Punjab is the name of their new venture – an Indian restaurant on Victoria Terrace. In line with their traditional aspirations for a home, the restaurant’s aim is to introduce customers to only the most authentic dishes from Northern India. Gursharan also works part time in a near by nursery school.

The couple was able to take advantage of Barratt’s first-time buyer incentives which included 5% deposit paid and free fitted carpets, curtains and light fittings. Ranjeev concluded, “The assistance we received from Barratt meant that we only needed to put 2% of the purchase price down ourselves, saving us a lot of money. This was a huge help since starting up the business had obviously been a strain on our finances as well as our time, so not having to worry about carpeting the place was also a relief!

“Overall we love our new home and the Regency-environment, which makes this development standout over most other new builds. I am also confident that because of the unique surroundings this property will remain desirable and therefore be a sound investment for the future. Finally, the customer care we’ve received has been second to none and despite relocating and trying to set up a business all at the same time, the purchase process has been very straight forward.”

Chris Ashmore, Sales Director for Barratt Mercia said, “The design of the buildings at Regency Gardens has attracted a wide range of buyers. In addition the scheme incorporates extensive communal landscaped areas that are reminiscent of the early 19th century pleasure gardens where the aristocracy gathered for recreational purposes.

“Today’s occupants will be able to make the most of these peaceful green areas that have been beautifully landscaped. In all, the development sits perfectly alongside its original Regency neighbours and provides a stunning, modern adaptation of a classic architectural concept in this highly sought after location. ”

Regency Gardens provides 42 luxury new homes, as well as the two-bedroom apartments there are three- and four bedroom townhouses. All the properties are sold with allocated parking and access to the gardens.

For more information about Regency Gardens log on to Barratthomes.co.uk.