Apple Trees

A thoughtfully designed forever home, delivered with precision during one of the most challenging construction periods in recent history.

Apple Trees is a bespoke four-bedroom chalet bungalow located in Westfield, East Sussex. The project was commissioned by clients who owned a parcel of land behind their existing business premises.

Project Type: Full Build & Project Management
Scope: New Build Chalet Bungalow

Architect

Roger Howells

Structural Engineer

N/A

GDV

N/A

Build Cost

£375,000

Location

Westfield, East Sussex

Duration

14 months (including 3-month COVID shutdown)

Completion

October 2020

Project Detail

Project Overview

Having successfully secured planning permission, they appointed Bellco Construction to deliver their vision of a future-proofed, level-access home that would serve them comfortably in later life, while still providing generous space for visiting family and friends.

Working alongside Architect Roger Howells, we managed the project from construction drawings through to final clean and handover. Our role covered full project management and complete build delivery, coordinating every trade and detail to ensure a smooth and controlled construction process.

The result is a beautifully proportioned, energy-efficient home designed entirely around how our clients wanted to live.

The Vision

The brief was clear:

  • A bungalow layout suitable for later life
  • Full level access throughout the ground floor
  • Additional bedrooms for family and guests
  • Open plan living areas for entertaining
  • A light, vaulted lounge space
  • A comfortable and practical layout for everyday life
  • This was not simply a new build house, it was a carefully considered “forever home.”

Key Works Delivered

Bellco Construction delivered the project in full, including:

  • Site preparation and groundworks
  • Structural steel installation
  • Brickwork and external envelope construction
  • Carpentry and roofing
  • Windows and doors installation
  • Full mechanical and electrical installation
  • Complete internal fit-out
  • Bespoke finishes and detailing
  • Landscaping and external works
  • Air conditioning installation
  • Final clean and client handover

Design & Layout Highlights

The finished home features:

  • A spacious open-plan kitchen and dining area
  • A stunning vaulted lounge with exposed oak trusses
  • Three bedrooms and a family bathroom
  • A first-floor lounge and study space
  • A ground floor bedroom with ensuite
  • Additional WC and dedicated office space
  • Level-access design throughout key living areas
  • Air conditioning to ensure year-round comfort

The exposed oak trusses create architectural character while maintaining the warmth and practicality expected of a family home.

Site Challenges & Logistics

The build presented a number of logistical challenges:

  • The site sat behind an operational business
  • It was adjacent to a school
  • It bordered a busy A-road
  • Access was restricted and required careful coordination

Material deliveries, trade scheduling and site safety had to be meticulously managed to ensure minimal disruption to neighbouring operations and public areas.

Our experienced team planned and phased works carefully, maintaining safe access at all times and ensuring smooth daily operations despite the constraints.

Navigating COVID-19

Midway through the project, the COVID-19 pandemic introduced an unexpected three-month site shutdown.

As with many projects during this period, adaptability was essential. We worked closely with suppliers, trades and the client to re-programme works efficiently once restrictions eased, ensuring the project remained controlled and on track.

The pause required flexibility, but the outcome remained uncompromised.

Material Selection & Client Collaboration

Building a new home involves hundreds of material and finish decisions. At Bellco Construction, we understand how important these choices are.
Throughout the project we:

  • Presented physical samples to the client
  • Arranged supplier visits to site
  • Explained performance differences between products
  • Offered professional guidance when requested

We treat every client’s home as if it were our own. We are not afraid to provide honest, experienced advice to ensure the right materials are installed — balancing aesthetics, durability and long-term performance.
This collaborative approach ensures confidence at every stage of the build.

The Outcome

Apple Trees was delivered exactly as envisioned.

The home provides level access for long-term living, generous space for family gatherings and beautifully designed living areas that feel open, warm and welcoming.

Our clients were delighted, having once believed that building their own home may not be possible. Today, they enjoy a space designed entirely around their lifestyle, comfort and future needs.

Why This Project Matters

Apple Trees demonstrates Bellco Construction’s expertise in:

  • Bespoke new build homes
  • Managing restricted and complex sites
  • Full project management from drawings to completion
  • Collaborative client-focused delivery
  • Adapting to unforeseen challenges
  • Delivering high-quality finishes within controlled budgets

Considering a New Build in Sussex or Kent?

If you own land or are considering building your own home, speak to Bellco Construction.

Our new build experience, structured project management and trusted local trade network ensure your vision is delivered professionally — from first drawing to final clean.

Discuss your project with our team today.

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