Stacey Barnfield takes a peek at show homes with a difference
By Stacey Barnfield, CityLiving
Show home interiors can often be clichéd and predictable; over-the-top fabrics, in-your-face floral displays and sofas with more scatter cushions than you'd ever want to live with.
Interiors at a new Birmingham development, however, are breaking the mould with a homage to classic 1920s style, from detailed silk curtains in the dining room to ornate coloured glass lamps in the main bedroom. Even the double garage has old-fashioned glass windows at the top and the garden is accessorised with 1920s spades and watering cans.
Externally, the Hampton showhome at Crest Nicholson's Bournville Park development reflects the design and style of properties in the surrounding heritage area. Inside, the interior design is one of a kind taking you back to the celebrated days of the roaring twenties.
Claude Hooper Interiors' Jo Eacock said the developer's brief was to create show homes that achieve a memorable look: "The Arts and Crafts movement became our inspiration for one of the show homes as it is a part of Bournville's history.
"It is doubtful that any of the neighbouring houses have miniature cinemas with antique seating and velvet drapes playing Charlie Chaplin films or old microscopes and wooden tennis rackets lying around in the study."
The second show home is in complete contrast. Modern and minimalist, the use of glass and open areas create space and light throughout the property.
As with the 1920s house with its old style cinema, this property also has a hidden surprise in the form of a cocktail bar. The second-floor bar, with an old Wurlitzer CD player playing jazz, is colourful and brightly lit, with high tables and matching bar stools.
Keith Hazeldine of Crest Nicholson Midlands said: "The interior design of the two show homes is something quite different to anything we've done before and it makes a huge impact.
"People don't expect to be transported to a different century when they walk through the front door of a show house."
For further information on Bournville Park, or Crest Nicholson, visit www.crestnicholson.com or call 0121 476 3419.
