Creating a sustainable family home in rural Shropshire

Eco home, Clungunford

Bespoke Construction Consultants has been appointed as the Employer’s Agent for the construction of a bespoke eco home in Shropshire.

The £700,000 project for private clients Mr and Mrs Lyster is being delivered under a JCT Design and Build Contract and reflects their vision to create a sustainable “forever home” that blends with the surrounding countryside.

Initially introduced by referral, Bespoke was first engaged to address budget challenges when the original scheme exceeded cost targets. Through close collaboration with the clients and design team, the project was respecified to improve efficiency without compromising design quality or integrity. Following a competitive tender process, Aspire Building Contractors was appointed to deliver the home.

Our role includes:

• Acting as the primary client representative, administering the contract in line with JCT provisions

• Issuing instructions, confirmations and clarifications to the contractor

• Assessing and certifying payments, variations and extensions of time

• Monitoring contractor progress, quality and adherence to programme and budget

• Coordinating inspections, snagging, and final handover, including O&M manuals and warranties

Key features and achievements:

• Supporting the client through pre-contract planning and tender evaluation

• Securing a local, trusted contractor within budget to ensure quality and value

• Delivering cost and programme certainty through structured contract management

• Providing hands-on site and progress monitoring for consistent delivery confidence

Sustainability and community focus

The home adopts a fabric-first approach, prioritising energy efficiency through highly insulated, airtight construction and premium building materials. Low-carbon technologies, including photovoltaic panels with battery storage and an air-source heat pump, will significantly reduce energy demand and emissions. This combination of sustainable construction and smart energy systems ensures long-term environmental performance and comfort.

With completion due in September 2026, this project showcases how collaborative planning, sustainable design and technical expertise can deliver a modern, low-carbon home tailored to its owners and a benchmark for responsible rural development in Shropshire.