Bespoke homes offer personal touch.

In a market where there is a multitude of companies producing new-builds, a great spectrum exists of what the finished article should incorporate.

Many companies will offer a choice from a standard range of kitchens, bath suites and decor which although allows an element of personal choice, for practical reasons the ranges tend to be restricted.

Because Stone Homes only produces three to four properties each year, the company says it is able to work more closely with customers to produce a home filled with individual preferences. The company aims to hand over a house which feels as though the owner has already lived in it.

Bespoke homes are a step away from self-builds. The heartache of initially finding a plot on which to build is instantly removed and the buyer is able to rely on the developer's expertise in many fields you have no knowledge of and you do not have to spend all your spare time sourcing and purchasing your desired products.

If you are contemplating having a bespoke home built, some key areas to consider include the following.

The single most important area to work on is the kitchen - it is rarely just a place where food is prepared.

Breakfasting kitchens are practically a standard requirement even if a house contains a dining room. A purchasing decision could hinge on the layout and style of a kitchen, as nobody wants to purchase a new-build and find themselves having to replace an unsuitable kitchen.

The layout is equally as important as the door style - space needs to be used wisely, appliances positioned practically and the colour on the walls should complement the units.

Bathrooms follow on as the next crucial choice in terms of size, layout and tiling.

What one customer may feel is a fantastic, roomy bathroom, another may see as a waste of floor space which could be better used elsewhere - it's all about what suits the individual. With bathrooms and kitchens, creative use of tiling cannot be over-estimated.

Stone Homes work in one of two ways. Having purchased a plot/conversion, usually in a rural location, the company aims to create a traditional stone-built property full of charm.

If the company has a purchaser, after exchange of contracts it gives as much choice as is practical, offering guidance, ideas, advice and costings.

An initial specification and budget will have been agreed and certain choices may incur extra costs. As a rule however they will add to the value of the property.

If the property has not been put on the open market the company tries to incorporate numerous features - for example, internal stone walls, traditional fireplaces, wooden beams and stained glass doors to create a stunning home through to completion.

Either way, a bespoke home should be given the chance to evolve. It would be restrictive to have all the decisions made on the drawing board as a bespoke home is a moving target - challenging but, when completed, worth the time spent on making a reality those personal touches so agonised over.

Stone Homes can be contacted on [phone] or log on to www.stonehomes.co.uk