ALL IN THE DETAIL
Filled with design Amada Shepherd's new build has all the benefits of contemporary living complete with a modern-rustic charm
Having input at the construction stage of this Tyne and Wear new build meant its owners could have a home perfectly suited to their new needs
The light and airy, open-plan home of Amanda and Peter Shepherd couldn’t be more different from their previous three-storey Victorian villa. ‘We loved the charm of our old house but there was a lot of wasted space and rooms that we never used,’ says Amanda. ‘We built a beautiful extension at the back of the property and found ourselves living in there most of the time, which made us think about how we wanted to live.’
After considering building their own house, the couple’s search for suitable land led them to a nearby village where local developers, Monument Design & Build, were transforming a farmstead into six bespoke homes. ‘When we first looked at this place, it was partially built but we were still able to have considerable input at the design stage,’ says Amanda. ‘It was almost like a self-build – we refigured the space to suit us and carefully considered every detail of the design.’
DARK AND DRAMATIC
Their inspiration came from the simple craftsmanship and contemporary styling of the building. ‘The oak beams and industrial iron structure were strong creative starting points, with large metal framed doors opening up the whole interior,’ says Amanda. ‘We complemented the look in the sitting room with the chimney breast in dark Venetian plaster and used the same colour for the kitchen units as we wanted a dramatic backdrop with everything hidden behind pantry doors.’
Having designed kitchens for their previous homes, Amanda had very specific ideas for the details. ‘The practicalities are the best place to start to ensure you get everything you need out of the space,’ she explains. All of the white goods have been hidden in the gigantic island, while the other side is all-important storage.
‘We love entertaining and when we sit in the dining nook, the big pantry on the end of the kitchen opens up into a bar,’ says Amanda. ‘We’ve definitely learnt from past experience about what works in a home, and the dining booth is a lovely intimate space for bringing people together.’
TAILOR MADE
Upstairs, the couple have not only considered their own needs but those of their guests, too. ‘We wanted to create a lovely welcoming atmosphere for our friends and family and decided to add an en-suite bathroom to every bedroom,’ Amanda explains. Each room is very private so their guests can have a relaxing hotel-like experience.
With so much space downstairs, the Shepherds decided to put the master bedroom and en suite on the ground floor. The bedroom is bright and airy, and has a rustic look thanks to the exposed beams. ‘We chose oak panelling rather than wall paint, which has created a real warmth,’ says Amanda. ‘All the rooms look out on to the courtyard garden and are always full of light whatever time of day.’
Peter designed the lighting system where the lights automatically come on when you walk from one room to another. ‘I cannot recommend it enough,’ says Amanda, ‘and I can’t imagine ever hunting for a light switch again!’
Featuring the best details from previous renovations has resulted in a stylish new home that Amanda and Peter can fully enjoy, and they are certainly in no rush to move again.