#estate planning cambridgeshire

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Official Presentation Legacy Matters

Legacy Matters we pride ourselves on demystifiny legacy planning, giving explanations and guidance from people who really care.Cambridge-based, family business of Will writers and Estate planners providing Will-writing, Lasting Powers of Attorney, Trusts Probate and a wide range of Estate Planning services across Cambridgeshire.

9 Highfield Road, Impington,Cambridge,CB24 9PF

01223 867373

Mark@Legacy-Matters.co.uk

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Legacy Matters

Legacy Matters we pride ourselves on demystifiny legacy planning, giving explanations and guidance from people who really care.Cambridge-based, family business of Will writers and Estate planners providing Will-writing, Lasting Powers of Attorney, Trusts Probate and a wide range of Estate Planning services across Cambridgeshire.

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Katherine of Aragon and Charles Brandon

Thus Christmas of 1533 should have been a merry time for the duke, who was no doubt looking forward to spending it with his young and invigorating wife. Such plans were put on hold as he made the journey from London into Huntingdonshire (now Cambridgeshire) to visit Katherine. He had two orders: to reduce Katherine’s household and servants, and to escort her to Somersham. If we believe Chapuys’ reports, Somersham was like a tomb, a damp, dark place where the cold air seeped into one’s bones. He had already protested against Henry’s previous alternative, Fotheringhay, a name that made the place sound surprisingly positive, but Somersham was far worse than Buckden. Henry knew it, and so did Katherine.

No doubt Brandon was confident that he would return home in a matter of days. However, Chapuys knew Katherine better, and he relished every amusing and embarrassing detail of Suffolk’s efforts. The reports by Chapuys and Brandon closely correspond; the duke was brutish, in Chapuys’ opinion, and Brandon’s own despatches do little to redeem him. He did not entirely agree with his mission, and could not bring himself to physically move the woman whom he had served for over two decades. Maria de Salinas, Katherine’s loyal friend and, incidentally, now Brandon’s mother-in-law, wrote secretly to the ambassador that Brandon had taken Communion before he left, ‘declaring at the time of his departure that he wished some accident might happen to him on the road that should exempt him at once from accomplishing such a journey and mission’.

Both Chapuys and Brandon report that and his entourage bullied its way into Buckden, and dined in Katherine’s hall before disclosing the purpose of their visit. Katherine’s protest was loud and angry. Brandon wrote to Norfolk, who had had his own memorable encounters with Katherine, that she refused all requests regarding her title, household and proposed move. Chapuys’ detailed account is based perhaps on the information from spies and informants at Buckden, such as John de Atequa, a bishop in Katherine’s employ. December was drawing to a close, and Katherine and Brandon remained in their domestic stalemate. The servants were dismissed, and even the chambermaids, who assisted Katherine in her private apartments, were threatened, but two remained. Her household now consisted of an apothecary, physician, two maids and her confessor. Brandon’s final move was to simply pack Katherine’s household furniture and baggage up around her, and have a litter prepared for immediate transportation. Katherine responded by locking herself in her chambers, while Brandon sat on the other side of the door beseeching her to let him in. Katherine declared that they would have to physically force her to leave, to bind her with ropes and bundle her off. 

Mass hysteria descended on Buckden. Servants were dismissed but refused to leave, Brandon was not confident enough to break down the heavy oak door that stood between him and his mission, and Katherine refused to budge and stayed in her chambers. Chapuys may have been surprised by Katherine’s barricading herself in her room, but he could hardly fault it; he had heard much about the proposed estate, writing that ‘the house is surrounded by water and marshes, the most insalubrious and pestilential residence in all England’. It is not an exaggeration; the estate’s history corroborates his view. Previously home to the bishops of Ely, Somersham was surrounded by marsh and a large moat. No improvements had been made to the estate since the 1520s; thus it is easy to understand Chapuys’ indignation and Katherine’s refusal to move there. She threatened that they would have to drag her out, ‘as otherwise she would incur the guilt of voluntary suicide’. It was distressing enough that Katherine, a devout Catholic, would even contemplate such an option. Katherine won her battle, staying at Buckden, as a bedraggled Duke of Suffolk trudged home to court.

Lauren Mackay,  Inside the Tudor Court.The Six Wives of Henry VIII

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Expert Guide To Composing Your Very Own Will.

Unionline.

Content

Can I Make Provision For My Civil Companion?

Looking For A Bespoke Will Writing & Legal File Solution.

Legal 500 Honors 2019 Shortlist.

Want To Talk With Us Concerning Our Solutions?

Immediate Will Creating Solution

If you are a participant in England, Northern Ireland and also Wales, you can make use of Thompsons on-line website to start writing your free choice. If here’s is complex, you will be described a wills professional for guidance on a bespoke will, for which there will be a reduced fee payable if you wish to go on.

Having a baby is just one of one of the most wonderful, amazing and also frightening times in your life, so you can't be criticized for not thinking of writing a will. Cookies are little text data that can be utilized by internet sites to make an individual's experience much more effective. The regulation mentions that we can save cookies on your tool if they are purely required for the operation of this site. Some cookies are placed by 3rd party services that show up on our web pages.

For help with wills and intending your estate, or any various other individual finance concerns, contact our monetary guides on. It is necessary to obtain guidance from a solicitor when you are thinking about upgrading your will, they can assist see to it a new or updated will is still legitimate.

Can I Make Arrangement For My Civil Partner?

The only way to make minor amends to an existing will, like changing your administrator, is with an added record called a codicil, which will have to be authorized and observed similarly as the initial will. Conversely some online will providers include this service for a small charge. If your estate lies listed below the present Estate tax threshold of ₤ 325,000, though, you can make your will yourself, with the assistance of a will-writing service. You can find will authors via recognised profession bodies like the Institute of Professional Will Writersor the Society of Will Writers. A will simply sets out your long for what you 'd like to take place to your estate after your death. But it is a legitimately binding document that has to be composed in conformity with particular guidelines, so you can't merely create something on a notepad and wish for the very best. Inevitably, it's wise to be aggressive as making a will guarantees your estate goes to individuals you desire.

Lots of moms and dads will keep in mind the tangible properties when creating a will. Really usually, nevertheless, moms and dads will ignore essential assets that aren't tangible. Insurance coverage, pension plans as well as other assets that are held in trusts are not instantly passed down within your will. You will require to get in touch with each service provider as well as nominate your youngsters as your beneficiaries if you would certainly like them to inherit these.

This is true even if you have actually coped with a companion for many years. Nonetheless, they might have the ability to relate to a court for a payment from your estate if they are dependent on you.

Your next of kin is typically your closest living member of the family or relative. For example, it might be your hubby, better half or civil companion, or your full-grown youngsters. It can be hard to choose from the hundreds of solicitors available yet it's a good suggestion to browse or ask for a couple of quotes to discover the best lawyer for you. If you have a companion, yet you are not wed, they have no lawful right to acquire anything.

Trying To Find A Bespoke Will Writing & Lawful Paper Service.

In addition to preparing your Will, we can additionally encourage you on larger succession intending concerns such as making life time gifts and making sure that your individual finances remain in order. Many of our solicitors are participants of the Society for Depend On Estate Practitioners and are recognised as specialists in this field of legislation.

Common Wills-- two Wills of a couple that leave the estate to the surviving partner, who will then offer youngsters. Our lawful knowledge is drawn from the huge experience of our committed Will Creating group. We pride ourselves on the customised assistance we provide to you as well as your family members during each action of the Will Composing and also Estate Administration processes. Our people are trained in all elements of Estate Preparation, consisting of making use of a will as an approach of safeguarding the household house against Assisted living facility Fees and also Estate Tax. The files we produce are created using tried and also evaluated "Precedents" made use of by the majority of lawyers. We have actually completed over 50,000 - many of which have currently passed through the courts. We have been writing wills since 1992, so as you can imagine, we have actually stumbled upon every possible situation.

Fundamentally, it is a chance to guard the family house. We will send your contact information to the National Free Wills Network. They will send you a pack with all the details that you'll require. This will consist of a step-by-step guide and a checklist of at least six neighborhood lawyers. It will additionally consist of a yellow kind which needs to be required to the solicitor of your selection. Whatever your age, if you've assets, e.g. a home, savings, or a company, and also people or others you 'd like to care for, you need to consider making a will. Since that time we have aided over 30,000 individuals to complete their Wills.

Principal Ombudsman Adam Sampson stated "One solution which appear a whole lot is will writing. It's a solution carried out usually by will-writing firms who aren't managed".

Lawful 500 Honors 2019 Shortlist.

Being arranged with the writing of your will is the only means to guarantee your properties go where you want them to go following your death. To learn more or discuss your specific demands in additional information, our dedicated Wills, Counts on as well as Probate solicitors will be delighted to assist. Call us today on or email us using the 'Make a query' kind. Consultations readily available at our Norwich, North Walsham and Sheringham offices. The major purpose of a Will is to separate your assets in accordance with your desires.

What is a living will vs a will?

As you can tell from above, the main difference between living wills and last wills is their function. While a last will directs the distribution of assets after a person's death, a living will gives directions regarding the medical care of someone who is still alive although unable to communicate her wishes herself.

Identify your beneficiaries-- these are individuals that ought to get your estate. A person given the legal power to do this if there is no will is called a manager. It is a lawful file that shows the amount you had as well as owed when you passed away and verifies your will is valid. If you pass away without a will, usually your near relative is your executor.

Intend To Talk With Us Regarding Our Solutions?

It might well be you want your riches split uniformly between all children, in which instance a new will may need to be created. However, will creating for brand-new moms and dads should be top of the list of things to do to guarantee that your new family are secured ought to anything take place.

Funeral dreams-- among the first questions your family will be asked is whether you are to be hidden or cremated; making that decision currently will make it easier for your enjoyed ones when the moment comes. Preparing to create your will entails a little time as well as brain power! You need to assume long term and thoroughly think about how you 'd like to handle your most important properties and also record your wishes for protecting those you enjoy after you have actually gone.

If you do not have a hubby, wife, civil companion or youngsters, your estate might most likely to your moms and dads, brothers or siblings or farther loved ones. If you do not have any kind of family members, whatever will most likely to the state. To learn specifically what will take place to your estate if you die without a will, make use of the intestacy online device at GOV.UK. All consultations to review your will and needs are cost free. You just spend for the solutions you need, which will depend on your individual circumstances. With manage last will and testament lancashire of services available, we can aid at any type of stage on your Estate Planning trip. You can watch a listing of 14 typical mistakes when writing a will here, which includes neglecting vital assets.

Thinking of these points often puts people off composing a Will yet it is exceptionally crucial.

Possibly you have a pastime or a cause you are passionate regarding and would such as other people to benefit.

Conversely, fill in the on-line query kind and we will get back to you.

An inadequately prepared will can result in the document having no lawful result, meaning your estate could pass to unwanted beneficiaries.

To talk with among our lawyers, contact us today by calling.

In this time we have helped thousands of people much like you. For your convenience, we offer conferences in any of our three workplaces or virtual meetings online, to save money on traveling time. Lots of people assume that making a Will is a very straightforward procedure. Often that can be the situation but, extremely frequently, bespoke solutions are needed to guarantee that all dependants are appropriately attended to. We will take the time required to guarantee that you place the right option in place. Everyone should make a Will so as to appropriately videotape their directions for the disposition of their estate as well as to shield the future of their family members. wills cambridgeshire provide advocates the chance to have a totally free easy Will created by a regional lawyer via the National Free Wills Network.

They will be protecting your youngsters's assets as well as inheritance, and also will be in control of our child's funds till they reach 18. In addition to this, unmarried partners (often inaccurately called "common-law" partners) do not inherit any one of the estate if their partner dies. If you already have youngsters as well as a new kid is born, you will need to reassess exactly how you desire your possessions distributed.

Exactly How Presents In Wills Make A Distinction.

BBH get the right to make a fee if your will has intricate tax obligation stipulations or you make substantial changes once the will has actually been prepared. A lowered rate will writing service is additionally given by the NASUWT for participants' families. Making a will allows you to make vital choices that affect your family members as well as dependants after your death. A will can save your enjoyed ones unnecessary work as well as distress at once when they are least able to cope with it.

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Will Writing - Exactly How To Select A Professional Firm

Legalzoom Online Will Evaluation

Content

If You Don'T Wish To Utilize A Solicitor

Indication Your Will In Front Of Witnesses.

To Establish Who Will Take Care Of Your Minor Kid

Key Records To Have Along With Your Last Will And Testament.

When Should You Obtain Legal Advice To Prepare Your Will?

Making Older Individuals'S Voices Heard.

Full An Estate Tax Type.

Utilizing A Lawyer To Compose Your Will

What Is Probate?

What To Expect From Your Solicitor

If You Don'T Intend To Use A Solicitor

You might think that the generated paper shows your desires, however you would not recognize if there was a much better method due to the fact that you have no solicitor leading you. Further, if points fail, customers won't necessarily have the ability to complain to the Lawful Ombudsman or any one of the various other regulators if they depend on membership of the SWW or IPWW alone. Whilst the SWW as well as IPWW have a grievances service, they have no real comparable power to claim, the Legal Ombudsman, SRA, CILEX or ACTION. By contrast, a qualified lawyer such as a Solicitor or Chartered Legal Executive should follow a stringent specialist Standard procedure and also can be sanctioned both by the Ombudsman and also by their corresponding Regulatory authorities.

You can learn about the recommended minimum contribution quantity, and details of lawyers that can assist on the Will Aid website. Every November, participating solicitors will create a basic will at no cost in return for a contribution to Will Help. Prior to making a decision on who to make use of, it's constantly suggested to get in touch with a couple of neighborhood solicitors to discover just how much they bill. The fees for creating a will vary between lawyers and also depend on the intricacy of the will. However, will-writing firms are not controlled by the Legislation Culture so there are couple of safeguards if things go wrong.

The requirements for a valid will are much less strict for service employees on active service. If somebody makes a will yet it is not legitimately valid, on their death their estate will be shared out under particular rules, not according to the dreams shared in the will. They will need to accumulate with each other all the possessions of the estate, deal with all the documentation and also pay all the financial obligations, taxes, funeral service and also administration expenses out of money in the estate. Executors are the people who will be accountable for carrying out your wishes and for figuring out the estate.

Possibly you're not sure of your dreams-- or don't know what the best alternatives to take may be to safeguard your estate for the future generation. When this occurs a person's assets are dispersed according to a collection of guidelines called Intestacy Rules. This is a set legal order which decides where your money goes-- and the outcome might not mirror your desires. Many individuals recognize exactly how crucial it is to have a will in position-- yet an alarming number don't yet have one in place, as well as haven't place their desires down in writing. Mostly individuals put it off since they see it as something to deal with when they are older, or they know they require to sort it out however then forget it.

Who should keep the original Will UK?

1. Leave it with a solicitor. If a solicitor writes your will, they will usually store the original free of charge and give you a copy – but ask them to make sure. Most solicitors will also store a will they didn't write, but there will probably be a fee.

Release your brand name and increase exposure to hundreds of wills as well as probate professionals daily by protecting an advertising and marketing room on the Today's Wills & Probate web site and once a week newsletter. Established in 2014, Today's Wills & Probate is the leading news magazine for wills and probate experts. We offer comprehensive training, technical support, as well as literature/resources to our accredited members, and offer fully detailed estate planning services. Our Consultants are available free of charge on the internet consultations as well as telephone consultations, to use you suggestions on all your estate planning requirements, whilst you stay in the security and comfort of your very own home. We additionally have 2 workplaces in Hellesdon, Norwich as well as St Ives, Cambridgeshire and are using Face-to-face appointments in accordance with Government standards on social distancing.

Indication Your Will In Front Of Witnesses.

I'm single or single without children.Even if you lived with your companion, your making it through companion is not qualified to anything.

I'm single or solitary with children.Even if you dealt with your companion, your enduring partner does not inherit anything.

plenty of software supplies a certain degree of legal protection for married or civil-partnered couples, however this protection doesn't apply to cohabiting pairs-- also if you've been together for 20 years as well as have 3 kids.

The rules are complex though, so legal recommendations deserves having, and things vary discreetly across the UK nations.

Actually, there are just limited civil liberties for cohabiting companions.

If you're not married or in a civil collaboration, also if you split up, there is generally no lawful commitment to merge your assets and also divide them.

In response to the coronavirus pandemic and also the fact some individuals need to 'protect', the Federal government has actually introduced regulation enabling the observing of wills to be done using video clip.

If you have no making it through blood relatives, your estate will go to the Crown.

If it's less than ₤ 2million, consider looking in other places, as you may discover it tough to get payment from companies supplying much less than this should points go wrong. A lot of lawyers save wills for free if you made the will with them.

To Identify Who Will Take Care Of Your Minor Kid

Your will writing firm might maintain your details on data and advise you when it's time to review your will. It's a great concept to assess your will often to guarantee that it stands and still reflects your dreams. If you leave an old will as well as don't upgrade it you might locate that it does not abide by current laws and also might leave your estate available to Intestacy Law.

Solicitors operate in a controlled market, which indicates that you have much more rights as a customer need to something fail with your Will. Typically, you can get in touch with the Legal Ombudsman to whine if you have actually talked with the solicitor directly and also your issues aren't attended to. Many Will-writing services are covered by the Customer Civil Liberty Act 2015, yet it deserves examining as policies can vary from business to firm. Some also come from main organisations that can action in to assist you out if you're not delighted with the procedure.

Can I leave my wife out of my will UK?

Under UK law you have a lot of freedom in your Will to leave your Estate to whoever you like. However, you need to be aware that legally you have to provide reasonable support to all people who are financially dependent on you (e.g. spouse, children etc.) and anyone you maintained / supported financially.

Secret Documents To Have Together With Your Last Will As Well As Testimony.

Complete the form below to find out more concerning any of our solutions. By giving away today, you might aid us respond to much more phones call to our recommendations line, project harder for older people's rights and also fair therapy as well as provide normal relationship calls to people who are frantically lonesome. If you have children as well as your spouse or companion is deceased your youngsters will acquire every little thing, split equally between them.

The new will should start with a provision specifying that it withdraws all previous wills and also codicils. Withdrawing a will implies that the will is no longer legally legitimate. You can also ask the firm to get in touch with lawyers in the area where the individual lived to ask if they hold a will. The individual that has actually passed away, or their solicitor, may have registered their will with a commercial organisation such as Certainty () as well as, after the person's death, you can spend for a search of the wills signed up on the firm's database.

April King's team of attorneys is led by Paul King, a complete member of the Culture of Trusts as well as Estates Practitioners. ACTION is the worldwide expert association for practitioners that specialise in family members inheritance and succession preparation. Full ACTION participants like Paul are internationally acknowledged as professionals in their area, with proven credentials and experience. In addition, even if the service states that the Will is inspected by a certified person later on, that person can not correctly check the paper suits your conditions since there is no interview or notes to compare to!

Use our rapid online service and also established your own will within 20 mins. Alternative 1-- You can look our directory of will writing experts, which you can discover right here. from a lawyer in case of a complicated scenario, such as multiple separations, abroad investments, organization properties or large estates.

When Should You Obtain Lawful Advice To Prepare Your Will?

Will-writing solutions start at around ₤ 80, and also will increase to a few hundred extra pounds, depending on the intricacy of your estate, as well as the competence of the firm. When writing a will, many people select to take the DIY course rather than seek professional aid.

Can my husband throw me out of our house UK?

In short, then you cannot simply kick your husband out of the house. Instead, you will need to apply for your own occupation order from the court, which will determine who can occupy the property.

Along with becoming part of an acknowledged network of professionals, becoming a member of the IPW can help your business attract attention versus competitors, demonstrating the high requirement of your solutions. Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update 22/09/ In accordance with the current Federal government suggestions, we have actually returned to functioning from residence. Our solutions continue to be uninterrupted and also our functioning hrs are customarily. This is excellent for any individual that doesn't have an e-mail address or would simply choose to speak to an expert. In this circumstance, your partner would additionally inherit 100% of your ₤ 325,000 tax obligation allowance, giving them an overall allowance of ₤ 650,000.

Making a Will enables you to define where your properties must go on your death. You can attend to liked ones and also in doing so, show that you care. Furthermore, Wills can cover issues such as philanthropic gifts, guardianship for small youngsters, care for pet dogs and whether the testator wishes to be hidden or cremated. Every Will is backed-up with ₤ 2m of specialist indemnity insurance.

If you are in any uncertainty regarding whether or not you ought to make a will, you need to consult a solicitor or a Citizens Advice neighborhood office that can provide you lists of solicitors. Regardless of whether you choose ahome check out, telephone orvideo chatappointment, the same team of pleasant, skilled legal professionals will direct you through the intricacies of writing your Will.

This is due to the fact that it is followed up by on-going area guidance to improve knowledge every step of the means. Distinctively, we are the only network to evaluate and inspect every Will that is written. Finally, we are the only Will writing company to take duty for ALL suggestions provided. An extremely sincere organization as well as have actually currently made myself reassured that my family is secured.

Your partner might after that leave an estate as much as the value of ₤ 650,000 without needing to pay any type of estate tax. The estate tax rate for 2019/20 is ₤ 325,000-- this is additionally known as the nil price band. If your estate is worth greater than ₤ 325,000, you will typically have to pay 40% on whatever over the zero price band. Nonetheless, if you're married or in a civil partnership and also your companion is domiciled in the UK, anything you delegate your partner will be free of tax, regardless of the size of your estate.

What is better a will or a trust?

Unlike a will, a living trust passes property outside of probate court. There are no court or attorney fees after the trust is established. Your property can be passed immediately and directly to your named beneficiaries. Trusts tend to be more expensive than wills to create and maintain.

The most well-recognised organisations are the Institute of Expert Willwriters and also the Culture of Will Writers. It's also worth inspecting if they're certified by the Trading Specification Institute Customer Codes Authorization Plan. Ultimately, you ought to ask the Will-writing business where their indemnity cover starts.

If you as well as a spouse or partner want substantively the exact same wills - called mirror wills - you'll generally obtain a discount rate for writing both at once. Before writing your will, it deserves recognizing all the possessions you have, along with any type of emotional products you wish to leave to enjoyed ones.

If you do not feel great writing a will online, among our specialists would certainly enjoy to make your will over the phone. We can then get it printed, bound and also sent to you in the blog post. After writing a will and getting it inspected by our specialists, you require to print and authorize it before 2 witnesses to make it lawfully binding. You can do it from the comfort of your very own home in simply 15 minutes. Create a will online in as little as 15 minutes and also take care of what actually matters.

You ought to also work out plans for your kids's care, and take into consideration whether you would love to leave details guidelines for your funeral. If you're intending to write a will, you can choose whether to do it yourself or seek aid from a professional. The right alternative for you will depend upon exactly how complex your affairs are, as well as how much help you're most likely to require. We discuss your options for doing-it-yourself, making use of a solicitor, or hiring a will-writing service below.

What happens if the witness to your will Dies UK?

That said, the death of a witness does not necessarily invalidate a will. At the outset of probate proceedings, if the witnesses have not survived, the executor will be required to produce proof that the original witness signatures were valid, as well as proof of the witnesses' deaths.

The Will Associates is just one of the UK's largest estate planning companies, being experts in Wills, Depends On, Powers of Attorney as well as Probate. We have hundreds of qualified professionals and head office team and we have actually aided over 7,000 individuals protect in excess of ₤ 1.5 BN in properties. If you are named in someone else's will as an administrator, you may need to look for probate to ensure that you can take care of their estate. There are rigorous time limits for testing a will and if you intend to test a will, you must look for legal advice immediately.

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Fightclub

Damian adored his father, he loved Alfred and Grayson, and was passing fond of Todd, Cassandra, Stephanie and Barbra. But despite this, he had been looking forward to spending time alone in the manor. To be allowed to be in the manor on his own felt liberating. Even though father had locked down access to the cave, Damian considered this day to be a milestone of trust for them both. Most other 12 year olds were allowed to stay home without a babysitter, or in his case, a butler. Despite not be allowed to patrol, he was excited at the prospect of having the manor all to himself for the entire evening.

What precipitated this milestone was a charity event at Gotham General for the new cancer wing and adjacent research facility, and Alfred, who was on his way to England to sort out a cousin’s estate. The charity event promised to be hours long, combining drinks, aperitifs, silent and live auctions, followed by music and dancing. The invite said ‘A night of Emotion, featuring Celtic Woman’.

Damian, who had just recovered from a 24 hour flu that had struck in the middle of the night two days ago, had begged off attending. But everyone else including Grayson, was in attendance. Even Todd was present as Red Hood, patrolling the area from above. Todd was also serving as Grayson’s wingman, whatever that meant. The Birds were taking care of the rest of Gotham tonite.

Now it was just him. Alone in the expansive manor left to his own devices. The first two hours he indulged himself by running around the manor pretending to battle imaginary intruders. Really, it was nonsensical of father to think that the manor’s security was infallible. With that thought he drew up drill plans, noting spots of egress and ingress within the expansive manor.

He idled with the thought of eventually uploading his plans onto the batcomputer, but no, these drills must be memorized, with no digital or hard copy available. He would speak with the second eldest, Todd, about this tomorrow. After all his mother had breached security twice that he knew of, and Selina....Well, Catwoman wasn’t league trained, but she was charmed. How else could one explain away the things she was able to do. She once managed to put a silver cross around his neck without him knowing! Why a cross, he’ll never understand. But to this day for some reason he leaves it hanging on his bedroom mirror. Perhaps a reminder that he is not as infallible as he is wont to imagine?

Having worked up an appetite, his tastebuds drummed as he thought of the cucumber sandwich that Alfred had made just for him just before leaving for the airport. One of just many such treats Alfred had prepared to last the boy through the week.

He prepared the table carefully, just as Alfred had thought him. Laying out the table cloth with care, placing a crystal goblet of water to his right. He needn’t silverware this time, so from the credenza he only took out a linen napkin and a small china plate usually reserved for dessert. Alfred wouldn’t mind him using the good chinaware. Sometimes it was nice to do things proper, instead of being pedestrian.

He retrieved a small container from the icebox and walked over to the table. Inside was his favorite, cucumber on marbled rye, with a garden veggie schmear Alfred had managed to reengineer from Damian’s favorite Metropolisian deli. He loved the way Alfred prepared sandwiches, cutting off the crusts just how he like it. Father always complained when Damian asked him to cut off the crusts, stupid Drake said it was wasteful, but Todd didn’t care. Sometimes during patrol he would bring them both panini’s from Allessandro’s, and cut the crusts off with his utility knife just to spite ‘The replacement’.

He’d barely placed his sandwich on his plate when he heard Grayson, Todd and Drake crashing through the garage door into the utility room, and out again through that door into the foyer. Startled Damian made a mental note ‘ingress. Garage door; utility room door, not secure’.

“Damian!” Grayson, demanding to know where he was.

“I’m in the dining room”, he responded, getting up from the table, “why are you back early”.

Before he could make his way to the foyer his 3 elder siblings stumbled into the dining room. Grayson and Todd each having slung an arm of Drake’s over their shoulders, dragging in the younger, because he could barely walk, further into the dining room.

“How did he manage to injure himself at the party?” Damian demanded.

“Oh he’s not injured” Grayson said wryly.

Lifting his arm away from Todd and Grayson, Drake moved further into the dining room on his own.

Stumbling he reached a hand out towards the table slurring, “how’s I s’posed ta know Irishh coffee has wishkey innit...”. His hand fell short. Ffalling face first towards the floor, he turned at the last second, landing on the Venetian tile with a resounding splat on his back instead.

“You let Drake become inebriated!” Accused Damian.

Grayson and Todd, at the same time, “it was his fault!”

“How is this my fault?” Todd complained, “I wasn’t even there!” Grayson just rolled his eyes as if to say, ‘I didn’t mean you’.

“Tt, it does not matter Todd,” snapped Damian, “doubtless father is furious though.”

“Oh, father doesn’t know,” Todd interjected derisively, “he thinks it’s just an act. Civilian identity and all that.

“Anyway,” Grayson, ignoring Jason, continued, “just tell us where you want him and don’t say the floor.”

“In his own room. Grayson, why are you asking?” Suddenly Damian was suspicious.

“Yeah, that’s not happening” Todd said quickly.

“Thhrr thumping me”, Drake whined from the floor. “Istha a coocumber sthanwith”

Damian shot the duo an affronted look, chin out, as if ready to fight.

“Look, little D, it’ll be ok,” Grayson laughed “just call Alfred he’ll tell you what to do”

It was Todd’s turn for the look this time, giving Grayson an incredulous one, and Damian said tersely “I can’t do that he’s on a transatlantic flight.”

“What? No he’s not, he just flew to Cambridge, he should be there already—“

“Oh. My. God” Todd rolled his eyes, and Drake started laughing hysterically.

“Mathathewset! ...aha, haha...!” Drake howled with laughter from his place on the floor.

Giving Drake a look of disdain, Damian raised his voice over the maniacal cackling. “Cambridge, Cambridgeshire England Grayson! And just exactly how much Irish coffee have you had tonight?”

“Look little D—“ but Damian cut him off.

Glaring at Grayson he said “ No! You and Todd cannot just dump him on me like this. Why can’t Stephanie and Cassandra look after him?”

Drake bolted upright. “Shthefhany thoved me intho th waither!” He said angrily, arm outstretched pointing an index finger at the trio.

Then, still in his sitting position, he twisted back towards the table. Placing his hands on the it, he started slowly dragging himself along its length, while Todd smirked, trying not to laugh at him.

“Steph and Cass are too busy shipping over Celtic Woman,” Grayson began before Todd cut him off.

“And we’d tranq him, but B locked down the cave because someone wanted some alone time!”

“Tt, if you’re out of darts, then just take him to the clock tower so Gordon can babysit!”

“D—“ Grayson started again.

“No!” Todd grabbed Damian by the upper arms, looked down as his littlest brother, and said, “we can’t do that because we’re trying to get laid, and we need to get out of here ASAP!”

With a sneer Damian resisted the light hold, but Todd pulled him back. He lifted Damian up about an inch over his own head, and half an arms length away, emphasizing both the elder sibling’s strength and reach, as well as his irritation.

“Desist now Todd!” Yelled Damian, but with his arms pinned to his side there was very little he could do, except palm a small dagger from his pocket,and that made him very furious with his second elder brother. At the same time he was also mad with respect for Todd, though he’d never admit it.

Holding Damian up in the air, the younger’s legs thrashing wildly, trying to connect with Todd’s ribs, he said between clenched teeth, ‘It’s not that hard. There are 3 basic rules. 1. Feed and water a Timbo, but don’t let him eat or drink too much, and 2. make sure you flip the replacement over on his side when he passes out.”

With that Todd set his littlest brother back down, dodged Damian’s sweeping leg kick, and a dagger to his side with a quick hop and a laugh. Thumping Grayson on his back with both hands, the two proceeded to head back towards the garage. Though Grayson had the audacity to wag his index finger towards Damian, mouthing ‘no stabbing or killing your brothers’ as he walked backwards towards the utility door.

“What’s the 3rd rule?” Damian shouted after them.

In unison they both yelled back “Don’t be a narc”.

“Narc, whatever does that mean?” He mumbled to himself.

Behind him Damian’s plate crashed to the ground, and he heard Drake say, “Thiss coocumbrr sthanwhith is tho gud!”

‘Drake!” Damian rounded on his elder brother and leapt towards the table, snatching up the plastic container that held the rest of his precious sandwiches.

“Oh! For mercy’s sake Drake, show some dignity.” He said. He then walked back to the kitchen to put the container back in the icebox.

Drake, in response “nom, nom,nom,nom...” as he finished the sandwich.

Damian shook his head, resigned. He grabbed a jar of peanut butter and two spoons, then made his way back to the kitchen.

Seeing the peanut butter Drake’s shoulders drooped, head down, he whined, “I sowry. I sssuckk!”.

Utilizing a chair Drake pulled himself up to sit at the table. Damian pushed the goblet of water towards his 3rd eldest brother. Drake picked up the goblet and drank the water in one drought. He took the proffered spoon, and together him and Damian proceeded to take turns spooning out the peanut butter to eat.

After a couple two, or three large tablespoons, Drake spoke again “whathss that?” He reached towards the papers on which Damian had prepared his emergency drills.

“I am not ready to share that yet”, he moved the paperwork to his other side, out of Drake’s reach.

Drake, pointed a finger at Damian, “okay, ‘feth up, liddle bat, you were running around the houth earlier playing roguesth and capess”

Damian scowled in between spoonfuls of peanut butter. “Tt, did not.”

Drake regarded him thoughtfully, glassy eyes trying to focus, as he moved to rest his chin on his hand, “I almos believe you.”

Damian noted his speech was improving, but he also remembered rule number 1 and took the spoon and jar of peanut butter away from Drake. “For your information, I was playing capes and assassins, league trained to be exact.”

Drake, though still trying to focus, noted in his language usage that league trained also applied to capes,“ intersthing!” He perked up, remembering something his inebriated mind considered parallel. “Have you ever hurd of thelebrity fight club?”

“I thought we weren’t supposed to speak of it?”

Drake sputtered, “no, thath’s fight club fight club.”

Damian frowned. “Please Drake, father would never let us engage in such public spectacle.”

“Iths not real, iths claymation.” It took some effort on Drake’s part to get out that last word.

It was Damian who regarded Drake thoughtfully this time, “Explain.”

“Jon ever thow you Wallace and Gromit?” Damian shook his head in assent, and Drake continued, “tho like that, bu’ with c’lebrrdies f-fighting eachhothr…,” he grinned, and waited expectantly, starting to feel much better.

Damian was silent, waiting for the penny to drop.

“…and thhink of th’ damage you can infflict on a clay figuure...”

Damian’s brows knitted together, “…and said damage could be repaired quite easily. So, in effect it’s a harmless practice.”

“Exactly!” Tim beamed, slapping his hand down on the table. “Hey can I have ssome ore water?”

“Of course you may.” Damian took the glass, and proceeded into the kitchen.

Returning from the kitchen, Damian continued the conversation, “am I correct in assuming this is the part where we have discourse about who could defeat who?”

“Exactly!”

Sitting down, Damian hummed. This time it was he who rested his chin on his hand. “But, as a Jon would say, cartoon rules apply. Otherwise it would make no sense to include Wonder Woman or Superman in such barbaric pursuits.”

“Yass! Damesth, I’m tho proud of you!” He raised his hand in the air.

Damian grinned proudly returning the gesture, and Drake slapped Damian’s hand with his own.

“Ok, first up-“

“Harley Quinn vs Nightwing!” Damian said excitedly. “If Harley has her baseball bat she’d mop the floor with Grayson.”

Drake grinned, “way to show family loyalty, but alright. Oh hey! My action figures are still here. We can use them.” Drake got up and with Damian following they retreated upstairs.

Once upstairs, in Drake’s old room, suite really, Drake got down on the floor, reaching his arms underneath his bed he pulled out a rather large container. He didn’t get up, instead he shoved the box towards Damian, and rolled over on his side. Propping himself up on his elbow, he opened the container. Damian sat on the floor opposite and watched as Drake dumped out the contents of the box. There were what appeared to be hundreds of action figures now on the floor between them. Some were characters from Star Wars and Star Trek, some he recognized from his collections of video games. It was the hero action figures that caught his eye. The entirety of Gotham’s rogues were represented, as were the entire caped and cowled community. From Batman to Zatanna.

“Drake,” Damian breathed in awe, “why do you have all these?”

“Why not? Most of the superhero one’s were before I came to Iive with Bruce.”

Together, they began sorting the figures, throwing the generic thugs, transformers, stormtroopers, and red shirts back into the box.

“Damian,” Drake began, “can I see what you’ve been working on now?”

Damian paused, considering the request, absently fiddling with a transformer. He did bring his plans upstairs with him. Damian dropped the transformer in the box and picked up his plans, holding them gingerly. His lips twitched as he looked at the bundle of drawing paper, but despite his hesitant anxiety, he leaned over the box and handed the bundle to Drake.

Damian nervously began to sort actions figures again. He had originally wanted to show Todd first, since this was something his second eldest brother had likely done for his own apartment building. He’d never considered showing Drake first.

“Damian,” Drake looked up from reading Damian’s work, after having briefly looked through paperwork. A look of admiration shown on his face. “This is really good!”

“Really? I thought to show Todd first....”

“I think you should show Bruce tomorrow.”

“If you think so.”

“I do.” Drake stifled a yawn and passed the bundle of paper back to Damian who beamed proudly.

“Thanks Drake. That means a lot coming from you.”

A look of disbelief flickered briefly across Drake’s face. Recovering quickly, smiling he said simply, “thanks, and back atcha baby bat.”

Putting the plans aside Damian set about separating the actions figures once more.

“Drake, should we do a tale of the tape? Oh, and since you have a Red Hood figure, I’ve put back the Joker since...well you know.”

When silence greeted him, Damian looked up to find Drake sprawled on his back, softly snoring. Damian shoved the now closed box aside and out of the way. As,he was sliding the selected action figures to one side of the box he saw a robin action figure newer than the others, and picked it up. With a look of wonder Damian turned it over once in his hands. It was his very own figure, green boots and mask and all.

Smiling gently, he looked over at Drake. Remembering rule #2, he scooted over and tugged on Drake’s arm and shoulder until his elder brother was laying safely on his side. After placing a blanket over Drake’s sleeping form, he picked up his bundle of paperwork and his action figure. Making his way out of the bedroom, he placed his action figure on the night stand, and turned off the light before quietly closing the door.

[shadowsof-thenight]

Where our story begins: chapter three

Story summary: This is a victorian era AU Home is where our story begins, but how does one know where home is? 


Julia has a good life. A calm life. She really doesn’t have much to complain about. That is, until a handsome stranger steps into their home in the country and all that calmness seems to disappear instantly. Who is this man that seems to terrorise everyone with his haugthy ways?


Ship: Bucky Barnes X OFC-Julia

Warnings: none here, I think...

Words: 5079

***

A/N: Going back to work has proved to be a bigger challenge than I could’ve ever imagined. Combined with the less than perfect news from the doctors, I have been struggling to find the time and energy to write for long stretches of time. However, when I do write, I am usually happy with it so there’s that.

Anyway, I made a mistake in the previous chapter, turning Mary into Maria. Not sure how it happened, but it did and I will fix it. To avoid any confusion, Mary the chambermaid is not part of the MCU, which was why she wasn’t called Maria in the first place haha.

Forgive me for any mistakes you might find in this one, feel free to inform me of them so I can fix it. I work without a beta for this story and English isn’t my first language.

And as always, feedback is appreciated!

If you wish to be tagged, let me know! Edit april 22nd 2020: I replaced the chapter with a beta-ed version. Beta work done by @gnomewithalaptop​!

***

Masterlist                                              

Story Masterlist

***

Previous chapter

Chapter three

Julia was apprehensive as she slowly walked downstairs for breakfast the following morning. She had almost asked to have her meal in her room, but a pointed look from Mary had been enough to dissuade her from that plan. She was a big girl; she shouldn’t avoid situations like that. In regular fashion, this meal would be another group event, much like dinner had been, and she wasn’t particularly looking forward to it. She wondered if she would be able to face their guest and his lingering gaze. Still, her mother would appreciate her presence, which was why she had finally left her room. She could only hope that the buffet set up off the morning’s meal would aid her in avoiding that gaze that had made her feel so uncomfortable.

She was the first to enter the dining room, where their youngest footman Charlie greeted her happily. Julia smiled back despite her soured mood. The young man had that effect on people. Charlie was always happy, smiling brightly and he treated everyone around him with such kindness that it often inspired good behaviour. Julia had yet to meet anyone that did not like him. It had been four years since he began working for her family, and she knew that her mother had not regretted hiring him for a single moment. Of course, he had come highly recommended by Jones, and Jones had proven the value of his judgement many times during his tenure with them, which was why Josephine often asked him for his opinion, not just with employees. An act that was not really done in their circles, but it had ensured the unending loyalty of the man that ran their household staff.

Julia took a plate and filled it with fruits and dried meats before taking a seat at the table, choosing the same chair as the previous night. It was her seat every meal, unless they had a house full of guests. Charlie poured her some tea and she sipped it, relishing in the silence. The calm before the storm, she thought and repressed a chuckle. As she popped a grape into her mouth, footsteps could be heard from behind her, alerting her to the arrival of another person. She fought the urge to turn her head towards the sound, her curiosity nearly getting the better of her. Charlie’s cheerful greeting, however, informed her that it was her mother that walked down the hallway.

Josephine’s hand brushed Julia’s back in greeting as she walked by to fill her own plate. As soon as she came into view of her daughter, she flashed her a bright smile. A genuine one, Julia realised. Not a word was spoken as Josephine moved around the room, finally sitting down in her chair at the head of the table. The atmosphere in the room was light and easy, which Julia enjoyed. She was never one for conversation this early in the day.

“Good morning, Lord Barnes,” Charlie spoke with a more formal tone, informing the women in the room of the presence of their approaching guest. Julia had heard his soft steps, foolishly hoping that they had been her father’s, even though his steps had never been quite that light.

Julia notably stiffened as he came closer, bracing herself for the fake well wishing she would be expected to utter in a moment. Her annoyance quickly heightened when the man only grunted in reply to their footman. Was he unable to show kindness, Julia wondered.

Lord Barnes avoided the richly decorated buffet and sat down across from Julia. Charlie was quick to offer some tea and Lord Barnes immediately began drinking it. He looked tired—no, exhausted—and out of his element. And though it was wrong, his current demeanour filled her with glee, her own aversion to the early hours soon forgotten as she kept a watchful eye on him.

“I hope the room was to your liking, James,” Josephine wondered, her voice hopeful and a bright smile covering her face.

He looked up, silent as he clearly pondered the proper reply. Julia feared for a long quiet moment, that he might insult her mother outright. Or, perhaps she hoped for it, since it would fuel her fire and definitely stop her parents from wishing for an amiable match between her and this man. However, she was surprised when he breathed in deeply, releasing slowly and forced an actual smile upon his lips. That was new.

“It is a beautiful accommodation, my Lady; unfortunately I often have trouble sleeping after a long journey.”

His answer was surprisingly honest, refreshingly void of incivility and Julia was shocked by it. When she had gone down that morning, she had been ready for a fight—to defend her mother. And there he was, putting a stop to her righteous anger. If she lashed out now, she would do her mother a great disservice, which was the very last thing she would ever want to do. He stole her thunder, without even knowing it, and it caused quite some indignation on her part. Earlier that morning, Mary had pressed her to give him the benefit of the doubt. She had suggested that he perhaps had been tired from his travels and that a night’s rest might transform him into better company. Julia now realised that she would have to agree that this might have been the case, as horrible as that was, and she resigned herself to the knowing look she would receive from her friend later on. As she nibbled on the rest of her food, she repressed the sigh threatening to leave her lips and readied herself to play the pleasant host so as to support her mother's efforts.

As per usual, Josephine tried her best to spark some conversation. She commented on the food, the weather, and the dinner party that they would be hosting the following week. She also began to tell Lord Barnes that with the sun out, the area in which they lived was a beautiful sight to behold and that people fancied walking. Before she could offer Julia’s company to their guest in a suggested stroll, which she knew her mother would soon do, Julia interrupted the flow of the words by politely inquiring who the attending guests would be for the dinner party.

Josephine barely seemed to register the ulterior motive her daughter had for the interruption, instead glad for the interaction that was finally occurring and happy to elaborate on the subject. This caused her mother to jump into a rather lengthy explanation behind the reason for the party—she wanted to introduce Lord Barnes to their friends and family. Upon her daughter’s quickly broadening smile, she smiled kindly and began to tell her who had been invited.

“Early this morning I received the final confirmation,” Josephine was giddy with excitement and it only fed into Julia’s feelings. She had no confirmation yet, but there were a few people she hoped to see.

Josephine went on to tell the two people at the table that their nearest neighbour, Lord Rumlow—one of the bachelors her parents had invited to dinner in the previous months—would also be attending. From the corner of her eye she noticed Lord Barnes snap his head up, apparently interested in the conversation now. Josephine didn’t acknowledge the change and simply continued talking, saying that her brother, Lord Philip Coulson of Cambridgeshire, and his wife Melinda would also be in attendance, as would his son, Julia’s favourite cousin, Clint. He would bring his growing family along. Finishing the group was Julia’s brother Alexander, alongside his wife Carolina. Her brother would then proceed to be a guest in the manor for another fortnight. All negativity that had been building up in Julia’s mind instantly evaporated, and she clapped her hands excitedly.

Alexander had married Carolina two years ago, after which he had only been able to visit his family twice. Julia and her parents had unfortunately not been in the position to return that favour at all. Alexander had taken over many of her father's duties at court, taking his place in parliament and a large portion of his business. Julia had missed her brother a great deal and was glad to spend time with him and his lovely wife soon. Carolina had been her friend at court, and she would be delighted to receive news from their other friends that still lived in London.

Julia had also been away from her cousin for far too long. He and his wife Natalia had invited Julia over when their twins had been born, and she had stayed for nearly two months on their estate in Kent. It had been a wonderful time, and she understood why they preferred their estate in the country. Besides, her uncle wasn’t too keen on giving up his place with the queen just yet. Julia adored the family; the twins had been a delight as babies and she hoped that had not changed now that they were toddlers. She also hoped they would still remember her, though there was little hope. They had been very small when she’d last seen them.

With a new spring in her step, Julia excused herself from the table, intending to spend some time in the confines of her room. There was a book she had been hoping to read, and perhaps she would even write Natalia and Carolina to share her excitement concerning their impending reunion.

Before she retreated to her room though, she looked for Jones, hoping to get an explanation for her father’s uncharacteristic absence from breakfast. Jones kindly informed her of the head cold that had struck her father, restricting him to his bed. The kind butler assured her that bedrest would soon have him back on his feet, but Julia still worried and inquired if a doctor had been called. Jones confirmed that this had been done, and they should expect a visit later that day. Still, Jones pressed, there was no need for worry.

Julia vowed to herself that she would visit her father before the day was done, though she needed to get her letters out first. After all, time was of the essence if she wished them to reach the recipients before they began their journey south. Therefore, she continued her way to her room, leaving the entrance hall behind her and stepping on the first step of the grand staircase. She had been about to leap across the steps, giddy and in a rush to start writing, when a throat was cleared behind her. Despite her desire to keep walking, she turned towards the sound and hoped that the fake smile she plastered on her lips at least appeared kind to the observer.

“My lady,” Lord Barnes said, dipping his head to her in an unexpected sign of etiquette. She chewed on the inside of her cheek to keep from remarking on it; after all he had not shown much knowledge of customs, or perhaps it was a mere disinterest in them.

“My lord,” she replied instead, making an awkward curtsy as she turned her entire body towards him without stepping off the step she was on.

“My apologies for keeping you from your destination, but I was hoping to ask you a question,” the tone of his voice was smooth and light, the words utterly polite.

“Please do,” Julia said with a nod and a smile, hoping to be done quickly, though she had an inkling that this would not be the case.

“Would you be so kind as to accompany me on a walk later this morning, if the weather permits it?” He asked, and Julia had to fight to keep the shock from her face. She bit her lip, her eyes widening a fraction, before she composed herself.

She had successfully thwarted her mother in suggesting this earlier, only to have him pose the question himself. She had won no ground by her clever interruption. It had not occurred to her that he would want to take a walk with her; she figured he abhorred her company. He had not yet spoken more than a few words to her, which also made her wonder what they would discuss on this stroll. Still, Julia knew she could not decline this direct inquiry even if she wasn’t eager to accept. However, before she was able to utter a single word, her mother walked up behind them and answered enthusiastically for her.

“She would be absolutely delighted, James. Wouldn’t you, Julia?” She asked, giving her daughter a pointed look from behind their guest.

Julia’s eyes widened again momentarily, before she smiled again and nodded, agreeing with her mother that she would indeed be delighted to accompany him. The fresh air would do her good, she added, hoping to at least seem somewhat genuine, for she was certain that he must have witnessed the surprise in her eyes at her mother's words.

Gratitude filled her when at that exact moment, Maudlin and Mary could be heard exiting the kitchen while discussing the linens that they would have to bring in before the rain ruined them. Julia suppressed a sigh of relief, excused herself with the explanation of her letters, and rushed up the stairs to her room, though not before she had promised to find their guest once the rain cleared up.

The moment the door closed behind her, Julia released the sigh she’d been holding, following it with a groan of annoyance. This was not how she had imagined her morning to go. And though the rain had provided her with some reprieve, she knew it would be impossible to avoid the man for long. The deep dark grey of the sky was already showing signs of easing in the distance and she knew the showers would not last too long, unlike yesterday’s downpour, which had lasted well into the night. Eventually, Lord Barnes would come to collect her, and she would have to attempt to keep a pleasant demeanour with him.

***

James sighed heavily as he stared out the window, regarding the dreary weather that was currently raging just beyond the glass he sat behind. It felt fitting, quite similar to his ongoing mood. The winds that had ravaged the area yesterday had slowed considerably, but the rain was as persistent as ever. Despite the fact that the morning was well underway, it was still rather dark out.

It had been so bad that a maid had come to light his lamps only moments earlier. It was in that moment that he’d realised that the household still used oil rather than kerosene, and another sigh had escaped him. He knew exactly why they had not made the change, though he wondered if the parents had been open about this to their children. Julia didn’t seem to be aware of their situation.

He glanced around his room once more. The colours that adorned the manor had obviously been chosen very carefully and with a keen eye, and he was certain that the shine of a kerosene lamp would’ve illuminated those far better. It was a shame really.

James had quickly come to regret his choice to come to this part of the country and almost wished he had remained at court. Not because he particularly liked the politics that would surround him there, but because he still had plenty of business to conduct before he could return home. And he really wished to return home, for it had been far too long since he had seen the red bricks of his estate or the kind blue eyes of his mother, who currently resided in the home. He missed it and the peace of mind that always seemed to surround him there.

However, he had allowed George to convince him to come here instead. They too had important business to complete, and George had known it could not be avoided much longer. James had concurred, though he wondered just what George would be able to offer him. He had hoped to discuss the matter last night, but his host had claimed illness and retired soon after dinner had concluded, leaving James with no other choice than to do the same. He had vowed to himself that he would get his answers this morning.

His expectations for his lodgings had been low, but he had been pleasantly surprised. The room had been warm, the decor inviting, and the bed far more comfortable that he had thought it would be. His day had been more exhausting than he liked to admit, though sleep didn’t come easily. He had still been awake to hear the thunder cease its efforts hours after he had entered his room. The rain had still been pounding against his window then, and though others called the sound soothing, it infuriated him and kept him from dozing off. It wasn’t until the rain had softened considerably in the early hours of the morning that he had finally succumbed to his fatigue.

After a few short hours of sleep, when he had come to the breakfast table, the exhaustion had still overwhelmed him. Especially when he had been informed that George would not be joining them. Apparently he really had gotten ill and was unable to leave his bed. James wanted to be angry and he certainly felt annoyance, though there was also a pang of guilt in his chest. He knew that George was a man of principles and that he valued appearances, he would not skip a meal with his guests in an attempt to avoid them. He was clever enough to delay unwanted business in more sophisticated ways.

With another sigh, James stood up from his seat by the window and began pacing the room. He felt somewhat like a caged animal, which did nothing to improve his mood. The weather had already soured it enough. He was well aware that he had not been a gracious guest, which had only managed to further highlight the kindness that the lady of the house bestowed upon him. He felt another pang of guilt over it, though he was not entirely convinced that he would be able to drastically change his behaviour. He found it impossible to forget why he was here or the events that preceded his arrival. He just wanted to get things done and move on. From the issue and this place.

The damp caused by the weather was now seeping through the walls, and a chill could be felt in the room despite the roaring fire, and he grabbed his thick robe to wear over his clothes. He really wanted to keep warm. The pain that the chill and damp caused would be detrimental to his already bad attitude, and he was still hoping to improve it. Lady Josephine deserved as much. Besides, he wasn’t ready to let anyone notice his agony; it would only lead to questions that he wasn’t willing to answer. Not to these people, not in this place. It was yet another reason why he wanted to return home.  

***

An hour or two passed before the weather finally turned around and a sliver of sunlight forced its way through the clouds. Julia wasn’t sure if she should be delighted or apprehensive—or perhaps the combination of the two. The persistent rain wasn’t good for the farmers in the area after the drought they had endured during the summer months, and she worried for them.

With determination, she got up, fixed her hair in the mirror and inspected her dress. It was a checkered piece, red, green, and black. The neckline was black lace that created a high cover, obscuring her neck from view. The lace returned at the bottom of the sleeves and the train. She had carefully chosen it with the weather in mind. The unavoidable puddles would ruin a light dress. She found no imperfections on the dress and resigned herself to the role of dutiful daughter, leaving the room in search of the lord currently residing in the most luxurious guest room their manor held.

She did not have to look far, for the man had already departed from his own room and made his way to the grand staircase. He was talking to one of his own employees and had yet to notice her. His hands waved animatedly, and for a moment she thought he was merely explaining something. However, as she moved closer, she noticed the anger on his face. Struck with the sudden desire to listen in, she almost ducked into the shadows of the dimly lit hallway. She would love to know what angered him so. Yet, she composed herself and made sure to make some sound as she came closer, loudly greeting the maid that was walking past.

She noticed that Lord Barnes snapped his head in her direction, rolling his shoulders and taking a few deep breaths before he walked towards her. She smiled kindly, wondering if she should brace herself for the sour mood he appeared to be in. His valet curtsied, before taking the steps two at a time, rushing down. Julia followed him with her eyes, trying to imagine just what he could be rushing off to, before turning her attention back to the man standing next to her. For once, there was no smirk adorning his features as he regarded her, but an actual smile. One that still didn’t seem to reach his eyes. She wondered just what weighed on him, for she could not imagine someone that never truly smiled.

“My lady, would it be possible to steal you away for that walk now?” He asked politely, and though part of her still wished she could decline, she was intrigued by the man. He still made her somewhat uncomfortable, perhaps because he was so difficult to read, and his behaviour the previous evening still plagued her mind, even if he did show marginally better conduct this morning.

She nodded instead, a small smile playing on her lips so as not to show any unease. He offered her his arm and guided her down the stairs. Not a word was spoken until they reached the bottom, and Julia was glad for it. She didn’t know what to say to him, which subjects to breach or avoid.

Glancing around in search of Mary, who had been assigned as their chaperone, she wasn’t surprised to see the woman round the corner that exact moment. She had clearly been keeping an eye on the weather, much like Julia had. She curtsied, and Jones walked in their direction with their coats.

Julia noticed that his coat had extra lining and wondered why someone would wear such a warm coat this time of the year. That was when she saw which frock Jones had gotten her. Not the light overcoat that she had worn these past few weeks, but a warmer one.

“My apologies, Lady Julia; I took the liberty to get a warmer coat since the winds and rain have considerably cooled the air,” Jones explained, and Julia smiled at his consideration.

“Thank you, Jones. I appreciate the consideration. I hadn’t realised.”

Not long after, she found herself outside, huddled in the long coat and suppressing a shudder as the icy winds swept over the landscape and pulled at her hair. Perhaps it was the contrast with the previous warm weather, but it suddenly seemed far too chilly for the time of the year, and she was even more grateful for Jones’s quick thinking.

Slowly, they walked around the manor, towards the path that would take them around their grounds and towards the nearest town. She didn’t know if he wanted to walk that far, but it was probably the best path to brave after all the rain. Any other path she could think of would have been absolutely riddled with puddles and mud. Still, it took them some navigating to get around any and all puddles that adorned this path.

“I’m beginning to think we should have taken a ride in my carriage instead,” Lord Barnes said softly, and she glanced at his face without an immediate response. She wasn’t entirely sure how to reply.

“Do you wish to return?” She finally asked, and he shook his head with a smile. A real one.

“I prefer walking, though I do not wish for your dress to be ruined,” he explained, and she could not help but smile as she assured him her dress would be fine. This was a kindness she had not expected from him. She didn’t bother telling him that she too preferred walking. After the short exchange, they continued to walk in silence, with Mary a short distance behind them.

Lord Barnes offered his hand to help her manoeuvre around the few fresh puddles they encountered, once even bending down to lift her dress over them. He was behaving as a perfect gentleman, and Julia had trouble reconciling this side of him with the one he had shown her before. He even tried more than once to get a conversation going, but Julia had difficulty playing the role of the dutiful hostess that she had vowed to take on. She felt that the slights towards her mother were too great to ignore.

“Can I ask what brought you here?” She finally asked, opting for this rather than the questions she really wanted answered; perhaps she could work up to those.

“Your father invited me.” He didn’t seem fazed by her impertinent inquiry.

“Where did you meet him?” It was hard to take the time for a build up of questions; she had never been the most patient person and preferred bluntness. Still, she did not want to shame her parents more than she was already doing by asking for answers she wasn’t necessarily privy too.

“At court,” he said and paused. She almost wondered if that was all she would receive when he finally began to elaborate. “Like you, I was there for most of my childhood. Our families have always done business with one another.”

“My apologies. I do not recall,” Julia was quick to offer as her cheeks turned pink. It occurred to her that she had been quite rude by not knowing these answers. She should have just asked her mother.

“Don’t atone for an imperceptible slight, my Lady; you were young.” He chuckled. “I left early for my studies. We would not have crossed paths often. When I returned, you had already relocated here.”

“I see. Does your father still reside at court?”

“No, my father passed away some time ago”

“My condolences. I did not mean to pry.” Julia hung her head, realising that she might not get to the questions that were burning in her mind. She did not want to seem insensitive to his loss.

“Thank you.” He pursed his lips and looked straight ahead. “I took over after that, though I prefer Sheffield over court.”

“I see.” She nodded, unsure where to go from this.

The silence that followed hung heavily between them and lasted far longer than she would have wished for. Julia was mulling over the questions she wished to ask him and the proper way to construct them. Finally the words just burned on her tongue, and she realised that perhaps she should just spew them.

“Did you not wish to be here then?” She tentatively began, and he seemed shocked by her words, whipping his head in her direction. She could hear the sudden intake of breath behind her and knew that Mary had heard every word. A pink tinge spread on her cheeks more violently now, but she couldn’t take it back. The harm had been done. She could only hope for his leniency.

“I have some business to conduct with your father. After which I do hope to return home speedily,” he answered finally, and Julia studied his features as he did. He appeared genuine.

“I wonder,” she stopped herself. This was perhaps the hardest part, but she felt that she was at the point of no return. She really wished to be answered, hopefully without ruining her parents’ reputation in the process.

“Yes, my Lady?” He pressed, a kind look on his face, and it gave her the courage to continue.

“Have my parents wronged you?” She finally asked and took a deep breath as she looked at him. They had stopped walking, and stood facing one another, Mary still keeping a few steps distance between them.

“My apologies, I don’t think I understand,” he said, a look of shock crossing his features.

“Last night it appeared that you could not repay the kindness that my mother bestowed upon you.” Her heart hammered in her chest; there was no telling how he would respond. It was improper to be this blunt, especially with someone she barely knew. He could easily ruin her reputation and that of her parents. He was part of the Queen’s inner circle; his word would overpower hers in the court of public perception.

James was silent, staring down at her, and she shifted under his intense gaze. She wished he would speak, but when he did not, she decided to elaborate. There was very little to lose now. “It appeared that she had been nothing but gracious, and yet you did not repay her in kind.”

“Indeed, Lady Josephine is a very sophisticated lady. I shall apologise when I see her,” he smiled as he spoke and offered her his arm once more, to continue their walk into town.

Julia was stunned. She had not expected him to agree with her, she had prepared for a verbal lashing, anger, revulsion. Instead he promised to apologise. All the anger that had been building up inside of her suddenly evaporated with this unsuspected change of events. She truly did not understand this man. Julia glanced behind and saw Mary’s wide eyes and open mouth. She had shocked her maid and could only hope that the woman would remain quiet on the subject. She really didn’t want anyone in the manor to know about this. She had been mortified enough by her own brazen actions.

***

Next Chapter

[informationvine]

Accounting Firms in Brampton, Ontario, Canada

There are numerous accounting firms in Brampton, Ontario, Canada. Depending on the firm, they may offer services to small businesses, individuals, and corporations. Many accounting firms have accountants with four-year university degrees or at least an associate's degree. While bookkeepers and agents are expected, certified public accountants are highly sought-after because they've passed the CPA exam and met state requirements. These professionals help clients with everything from tax planning to financial statements.

Various services are available at several accounting firms in Brampton, including bookkeeping, financial services, and tax preparation. Hk Accounting provides bookkeeping, accountant, and financial services, including business registration, company incorporation, loans, and payroll. This accounting firm offers services to businesses in the greater Toronto area. Clare McDonald, a seasoned CPA with 12 years of experience, provides tax services, bookkeeping, and more.

Whether you're a small business owner or an entrepreneur, accounting services can help you minimize tax liabilities and maximize profits. Cambridgeshire accountants are also well-versed in small business accounting. They can work with many different contractors to make sure that you comply with legal requirements and select a suitable business model. They can even offer real estate investment updates. These firms in Brampton can help you determine which of these services are most appropriate for your needs.

Turner Moore is a Chartered Accountant. It is specializing in socially-responsible accounting and provides timely assurance, taxation, and financial consulting services. Its staff members are experienced in various industries, including technology, real estate, mining, and not-for-profit ventures.

Among the many accounting firms in Brampton, DMCL LLP is one of the most prominent. It operates under a client-centred approach with offices in Vancouver, Surrey, and Port Coquitlam. Another well-known firm in Brampton is Davidson & Company. Their motto is "Big enough to know, small enough to care",—as it emphasizes the importance of focusing on clients in all aspects of their business.

There are many other chartered accountant Richmond Hill. However, the Big Four advisory firms, or Big Four, are the leading players in the public accounting industry. The Big Four accounting firms in Canada are KMPG, Deloitte, PwC, and EY. The best accounting firm in Brampton will provide you with high-quality service and excellent value for your money. If you want to get a job in the field of accounting, KMPG is the right place to be.

The quality of their work is another factor. An experienced and qualified public accountant must have at least four years of post-certification experience in public accounting. For example, a first-level NTR reviewer should have four years of experience. They must have been in practice for at least a decade for an audit. They must have completed all necessary training and testing. Finally, they should have several certification requirements for all of their employees.

[architectnews]

Chelsea Barracks Phase 3a, West London

Chelsea Barracks Phase 3a, South West London Apartments Images, Qatari Diar Property UK

Chelsea Barracks Phase 3a

26 November 2021

Architect: PDP London

Location: Chelsea Barracks, southwest London, England, UK

Bricks: Wienerberger

photos courtesy of Brick Awards

Chelsea Barracks Phase 3a Award

Contractors Choice

Judges comments:

A fantastic example of clay brick work and traditional bricklaying skill, a real joy to see.

Described as ‘London’s most coveted neighbourhood’ the Chelsea Barracks scheme sets the standard for luxury living in the capital and is some of the most expensive real estate on earth.

At the heart of the development, set in new public realm by the historic Garrison Chapel, phase 3a includes a centrepiece restaurant, delicatessen and exclusive mews house.

The concept for the design was created by Ben Pentreath, known for his classical style of architecture, and William Smalley, known for his use of simple, quality materials and his understanding of craft combined with understated luxury.

This design was developed by PDP London from Stage 3 to completion with Arup as structural engineers in conjunction with main contractor, Mace, and specialist brickwork sub-contractor, Lesterose.

The intersecting cupolas form a classical colonnade which frame views to the chapel and out to one of the newly created garden squares. The Grade II listed chapel provides a link to the past as the former place of worship for the Coldstream Guards who were originally based at the barracks. The chapel is now an Art Gallery and community gathering place.

The main public square, Garrison Square, provides a meeting place and heart to the development with al-fresco dining under the colonnade and around the side of the restaurant.

The technical challenge of marrying modern building regulations with the complex hand laid brickwork was a central consideration to the design.

An extensive process of detailing the position of each brick in both 65mm for the columns and walls and 50mm in the arches and cupolas was required, an numerous products were assessed before the Cambridgeshire Weathered Buff was chosen.

The light tones and rich texture of the brick suit the carefully crafted design perfectly and the matching lime mortar gives a subtle, blended finish to the facades.

The skill involved in traditionally laying to this exacting specification was provided by Lesterose. There are few examples in modern construction of this traditional craft which makes the end result all the more impressive. So much so that Lesterose had to research and design from scratch a method to hand lay to the intricate design. It really is a case of resurrecting a lost craft as pre-cast construction has taken over from the hand laid craftsmanship in recent years.

The Architects and Clients’ insistence that the scheme would be ‘honest’ to the materials gave a rare opportunity to demonstrate that the craft of the bricklayer is alive and well!

In the words of one of the Architects:

“With a design that was inspired by the Sloane Stable Block in the neighbouring Royal Hospital, the arches are a sleek contemporary take that anchors the development resolutely in the 21st century. The brickwork is also a ‘tour de force’ of technical performance and design precision, a testimony of that traditional masonry skills are very much still alive.” Marion Baeli, Partner, PDP London

Tom Maguire Comments:

A fantastic example of clay brick work and traditional bricklaying skill a real joy to see.

Planning A fantastic looking building, would have scored it 5, it is very much in keeping to the church and buildings to one side but completely out of context to the luxury development immediately to the other side.

Design The choice of brick is great and the arch design is superb.

Construction Quality of the brickwork is very high and overall a great finish.

Overall Yes a great example of what can be achieved using clay brick and traditional skills

Chelsea Barracks Phase 3a building images / information from the Brick Awards

Chelsea Barracks

Chelsea Barracks

Chelsea Barracks

Chelsea Barracks Developer

Chelsea Barracks Art Marquee

Chelsea Barracks Development

Chelsea Barracks news reports

Chelsea Barracks Letter

Chelsea Barracks Architect : Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners

Location: Ebury Bridge Road, Chelsea, south west London, England, UK

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One Hyde Park, Knightsbridge

Lanesborough Hotel & Spa, Hyde Park Corner, Belgravia, South West London Architecture: Filer & Cox ; Interiors: 1508 image from architects Lanesborough Hotel & Spa

45 Park Lane Hotel The Office of Thierry W. Despont / Paul Davis + Partners photo : Adam Parker 45 Park Lane Hotel

Comments / photos for the Chelsea Barracks page welcome

Website: www.chelseabarracks.com

The post Chelsea Barracks Phase 3a, West London appeared first on e-architect.

[mineheart1]

Buy Marble fragment wallpaper White Online For Home

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[ideasforlearningbetterspaces]

Learning Environments, Whitechapel Gallery

15th June

Aoife Donnelley & Kristin Trommler (Architects at Kingston  School of Art)

☼ Creating school furniture to create self-ownership of the individual’s learning and education

☼ “Territory is as important to people as it is to animals in the wild. The ownership of territory is the beginning of a development of self-orientation.”… Phillip Toogood

☼ Steiner schools (flexible environments) see more regulated educational content within their systems opposed to UK state schooling

☼  An environment for planned opportunities – promoted differing pace

☼ The Garden of Unaccompanied Children

☼ Learning happens through direct experiences and interrogation of the city

☼ Social space as incubatory environments to develop education, experiences and allow room for a child to evolve personnel

☼ Using basic building methodologies (wrapping, banging, rather than cutting, sewing) to encourage cross-participation and a non-hierarchical structure to creating. Using body scale to decide the size and scale of furniture i.e. using legs and arms to determine length of chair legs, challenging the boundaries of accessibility, usability, purple ownership

 Dr. Catherine Burke (University of Cambridge, Reader in  History of Education and Childhood)

☼  School design for young children in the post war decades

☼  David & Mary Med, devotion of public education

☼ Education for living, not education for learning (learning being the operative word)

☼ ‘L’ shaped schools, the bottom of the L being a permanent space where children could construct physical things together or individually over a period of time (synchronous learning). Children inherently show dislike for temporary and changing space; the school was systematic of ‘house/home’ like buildings where one class would have one permanent space. They felt similar to homes and allowed ownership of the classroom

☼ Garden city movement in Letchworth

☼ Impington Village School/College, Cambridgeshire, one of the first important modernist structure in the UK. Herbert Reed discusses this being notable for state school

☼ School design = start with the activity and move out from there

☼ Pond in Woodside School in Amersham

10 key design relationships of schooling:

1. Between adult and child 2. Between children of different types, ages and backgrounds, 3. Between areas of knowledge 4. Between boundaries of time and space, 5. Between indoors and outdoors 6. Between school and community 7. Between visual literacy and textual literacy 8. Between public and private spaces 9. Between educational enterprise and the wider social, industrial and political 10. Between architecture and educators

 Adesola Akinleye (Middlesex University) a.akinleye@mdx.ac.edu

☼ Rhizomes // Matrix of ‘self’

☼ Movement within a space as a (non-)hierarchical structure of occumpying a space i.e. no running in corridors, no running in the playground(?!)

 Nils Norman (Artist)

☼ Online archives of early year school’s playgrounds

☼ Site visits, hippy communes (some still existing from the 70s)

☼ Schools without walls

☼ Composing system of a city

☼ Bits of a city that’s between cities – between motorways and between housing estates

☼ Geneva – squatting and self-built areas

☼  Adventure playgrounds

☼ CIRA– a desk that decides if your movement/research/project/practice is anarchist or not. It either is catalogued as an anarchist movement, or it is put into the recycling bin

☼ Teaching to Transgress, Education as the Practice of Freedom

☼ Lawrence Halprin & Jim Burns, Taking Part: A workshop Approach to Collective Creativity

☼ Permaculture, running parallel to art classes and workshops, moveable/changeable/modular furniture; plants, tables, seating. Experimental pedagogies: Collective dining, reading, discussing.

☼ Self-watering plant bus. Condensation from breathing humans > collects on ceiling > gets shaken off when bus starts > falls and waters the plants

[thisbiodoesnotexist-blog]

Lord Randolf

Lord Randolph Le Rous (born 1st April 1953) nicknamed ‘The Corinthian’ is the current CEO of Coratech Global, a nano-robotics company specialising in ‘Alternate Matter Engines’, and former swordsman of the Renegade House.

Born in Akenham, Suffolk to Lord Erasmus and Lady Jane Le Rous of Rise Hall, where he spent his early years. He was sent away to boarding school in Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire at the age of 6 to learn the Bourchier style of Fencing (Sword-Fighting), along with the older Brtish Mystic Arts of Koli-woball and Arcanon.

He lost his sight at age 14 in an unfortunate accident with a Dragonfly (Sympetrum flaveolum) at a picnic. He was finally made to remove both of his eyeballs in a universal action issued as part of the Gastonheath Decree. He has commented in several interviews that this was ‘a very troubling time for him’.

His disability did not hinder his academic prowess, and he was able to work on a method of understanding complex mathematical problems via echolocation. His 1975 academic paper on “Using Koli-infused microbial force in understanding Death Token Engines (DTEs)” is credited for kick-starting the breakthrough in Death Technology that the new generation of Polyworth Engineers, such as Lexington Lombardo and Gaynor Ma, were rapidly able to advance.

His academic accolades did not however make him exempt from the Graham Law and so in 1977 he travelled the countryside of Cambridgeshire and nearby Hertfordshire as a man-for-hire. Using his knowledge of DTE and skills in Bourchier Fencing he was able to help the local population avert the local Farmers Amnesty and stopped the desolation of a nearby monolith. He wrote fondly of this time in 1996 biography ‘The rise of the Beast and Berry’.

In 1984, he worked with Janice Linke and Horsfond DeBeck to form the self funded CoraFrame Technologies in Wembley, North London. The company output was based on a methodology of DTE infused nano-technology developed by Linke and Le Rous during a chance meeting at the International Freedom and Free Will Faire in West Germany. The company grew from 3 employees to 2,500 in under 6 years, However Le Rous struggled to get the Alternate Matter Engine working due to a difficulty with harvesting Actaea pachypoda so requested that Horsfond find a new supplier in far off lands.

In 1990, Linke was arrested for possessing materials outlawed under the Gastonheath Decree and Horsfond was trapped in a Yugoslavian border dispute. Le Rous was able to purchase Linkes share of the company and used the predicament of Horsfond to make a power grab. He re-branded the company Coratech.

The rest is history and within 2 years the first working Alternate Matter Engine , Little Nemo, was successfully manufactured using the plans Le Rous had developed using Invictus and Neasdon methods.

Linke released an inflammatory document regarding Le Rous use of the Mystic Arts in Engineering and made allegations of ill-feeling before her execution by Brazen Bull in 1994. Randolph settled posthumously with her estate and was eventually honoured in the Ceremony of the Night Sky in 1996 and furthermore promoted to the rank of Master Sentinel in 2002.

His current activities have not been monitored since the Graham Law was repealed in 2008.

[jaigeddes]

Grosvenor strikes deal to build 5,000-home Essex new town

Developer Grosvenor has struck a deal with an Essex land owner to deliver around 5,000 homes to the east of Chelmsford.

Working with Hammonds Estates, Grosvenor will promote the 1,160-acre site as a new community featuring a mix of housing types, supported by schools, leisure and health facilities.

In 2018, Grosvenor outlined plans to triple the size of its strategic land business, targeting a portfolio of at least 30,000 homes within the next five years.

The new partnership aligns with Grosvenor’s focus on sites capable of hosting 2,000-5,000-plus homes, in growth areas where housing need is most acute.

With the addition of Hammonds Farm, Grosvenor’s pipeline now stands at around 15,000 homes, up from 2,100 in summer 2017.

Expansion plans have evolved from Grosvenor’s recent large schemes which include:

Trumpington Meadows, Cambridgeshire – a partnership with the Universities Superannuation Scheme creating a new community south west of Cambridge with over 1,200 homes of mixed tenure, size and type and with facilities on a site which is 80% open space.

Barton Park, Oxfordshire – one of the most advanced NHS Healthy New Towns delivering 900 homes of mixed tenure, size and type in partnership with Oxford City Council. Barton Park was selected as one of 10 NHS Healthy New Towns, which promote health and wellbeing through design innovations, from a field of over 110 applicants.

In partnership with local authorities, corporate and private landowners and investors, Grosvenor’s model is to take sites through the planning system, take control of the design and build out process and importantly deliver the infrastructure required to bring forward homes faster and maintaining control over design quality.

Through the expansion, Grosvenor aims to establish itself as the market leader in delivering sustainable communities that are progressive in their design, sensitive to local communities and to the environment.

Alex Robinson, Grosvenor director of strategic land development, said: “This new partnership exemplifies our target model for our Strategic Land business.

“Working with Hammonds Estates, we will focus both on delivering new homes at pace, and creating exceptional communities that create a positive legacy for residents and landowners alike.

“This requires a considered approach and a long-term view. It means deploying capital patiently to unlock development through up-front investment in infrastructure and placemaking, as well as maintaining careful stewardship over the design and management of new communities as they grow.”

[ndbasilica]

Grosvenor strikes deal to build 5,000-home Essex new town

Developer Grosvenor has struck a deal with an Essex land owner to deliver around 5,000 homes to the east of Chelmsford.

Working with Hammonds Estates, Grosvenor will promote the 1,160-acre site as a new community featuring a mix of housing types, supported by schools, leisure and health facilities.

In 2018, Grosvenor outlined plans to triple the size of its strategic land business, targeting a portfolio of at least 30,000 homes within the next five years.

The new partnership aligns with Grosvenor’s focus on sites capable of hosting 2,000-5,000-plus homes, in growth areas where housing need is most acute.

With the addition of Hammonds Farm, Grosvenor’s pipeline now stands at around 15,000 homes, up from 2,100 in summer 2017.

Expansion plans have evolved from Grosvenor’s recent large schemes which include:

Trumpington Meadows, Cambridgeshire – a partnership with the Universities Superannuation Scheme creating a new community south west of Cambridge with over 1,200 homes of mixed tenure, size and type and with facilities on a site which is 80% open space.

Barton Park, Oxfordshire – one of the most advanced NHS Healthy New Towns delivering 900 homes of mixed tenure, size and type in partnership with Oxford City Council. Barton Park was selected as one of 10 NHS Healthy New Towns, which promote health and wellbeing through design innovations, from a field of over 110 applicants.

In partnership with local authorities, corporate and private landowners and investors, Grosvenor’s model is to take sites through the planning system, take control of the design and build out process and importantly deliver the infrastructure required to bring forward homes faster and maintaining control over design quality.

Through the expansion, Grosvenor aims to establish itself as the market leader in delivering sustainable communities that are progressive in their design, sensitive to local communities and to the environment.

Alex Robinson, Grosvenor director of strategic land development, said: “This new partnership exemplifies our target model for our Strategic Land business.

“Working with Hammonds Estates, we will focus both on delivering new homes at pace, and creating exceptional communities that create a positive legacy for residents and landowners alike.

“This requires a considered approach and a long-term view. It means deploying capital patiently to unlock development through up-front investment in infrastructure and placemaking, as well as maintaining careful stewardship over the design and management of new communities as they grow.”

from Construction Enquirer http://www.constructionenquirer.com/2019/02/27/grosvenor-strikes-deal-to-build-5000-home-essex-new-town/

[marjoriemayweather-blog]

Buy a New  House  Created by Hopkins

Suffolk and Norfolk are  expanding areas with a  selection of  modern and  typical homes. Whether  trying to find one  tale or  family members  homes, these  areas  remain to attract  buyers from  around the UK. With the real estate market  growing, more homes are being  created to  help with the  requirements of  family members  and also  hectic professionals. The East Anglia area is  additionally a haven for Hopkins  Residences, which  concentrates on  brand-new builds with true  personality and  specific  design. Hopkins Homes are designed to  properly match the  decoration of its  bordering  locations and sub-division. From Suffolk  and also Norfolk to Cambridgeshire  and also Essex,  as well as Cambridgeshire, they have erected a myriad of  upscale  residences that  catch the allure  and also essence of true  technology. The Hopkins Experience If  seeking  brand-new  integrate in East Anglia, Hopkins  Houses  will certainly  fulfill your needs within time  as well as  budget plan.  For many years, this  trusted  company  has actually created  reducing  side homes that are  eco  appears. These  residences also entail energy-efficient  and also  environment-friendly options. With lavish exteriors  and also  sophisticated yet  practical  insides, these  distinct units  showcase a  variety of  modern  services. Whether  planning to  construct a  house from the ground up or existing establishments, Hopkins  Houses are  devoted to excellence across the board. This means they go that  additional mile to  satisfy or  surpass your  assumptions. From traditional British style  houses to the latest in  structured  as well as centralized  alternatives, Hopkins has the tools and experience to  accomplish your  wanted  outcomes. The Process The  new builds in norfolk is never an  very easy  accomplishment. From  discovering the  appropriate cost-effective  products to components, it can  genuinely be a  intense  procedure for new  house owners. With years of  comprehensive  market experience, Hopkins  Residences truly  recognizes your  issues. As a result, they  streamline the process for new  property owners without losing sight or  worth. All new owners are guaranteed professional  solutions  from beginning to end. This  consists of the  appropriate  contents that  fulfill your  requirements, along with industry leading  service providers with an eye for details. No home  structure job is ever  as well  large or small, and they are fully  approved  and also  guaranteed to  take on  house builds of all  dimensions. Green Options Environmentally green  devices are  associated with cost and energy  performance. Whether you  desire solar panels,  metal vents, or even radiant barriers, Hopkins  Residences  could  effortlessly facilitate your  demands. They also  make use of the highest grade of  contents to  make certain  optimum  layouts  and also functionality. Hopkins  likewise networks with  neighborhood  specialists to  make certain the  appropriate  elements  as well as  components for your  house. With the Hopkins touch, your  house is guaranteed to  fix up  any type of neighborhood or  act  limited  neighborhood. As East Anglia continues to expands, Hopkins is a name you can  rely on for all your  residence building  and also buying needs.  To learn more,  merely  see their site or contact them today. Hopkins will  really turn your home building dreams  right into realities.

[architectnews]

Gables House, Cambridgeshire Property

Gables House, Cambridgeshire Architecture, English Building News, Images

Gables House in Cambridge

13 Jul 2021

Architects: chadwickdryerclarke.studio

Location: Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, England, UK

Gables is a striking low impact village home.

Photos by Nick Hufton and Al Crow

Gables House

Designed to be our retired clients’ forever home, the house is accessible, highly contemporary, low energy, sustainable and secure. The clients wanted it to be not too big for two, but big enough to accommodate village parties and wider family coming to stay.

The house is knitted into the local community, and so in order for the house to have low impact on the village setting and the immediate neighbours it was essential that our design encapsulated the character of the village and the wider site. CDC studio replicated the thatched barn with weatherboarding, incorporating into the new volumes local crafts and materials of flint, red brick, timber shutters and estate fencing complimenting this with the use of zinc to echo the agricultural aesthetic of the original land use.

Adopting a thoroughly modern approach, the larger part of the new house was set back to retain existing views of the thatched barn from the village road and kept deliberately low in height to accommodate the immediate neighbours’ views. This resulted in the low lying folding glazed volumes designed to accommodate the 200m sq client footprint of space.

The site is landscaped to lead visitors towards the entrance and the clients’ front facing study, whilst not being able to access the main house without an invitation. A narrow, curved hallway draws you into the main house. The kitchen, dining and living spaces are open plan to allow for social gatherings. The kitchen sits under a column-free, steel rod hung mezzanine with acoustic damping which was rigorously engineered to avoid the reverberating noise.

This creates a sense of enclosure to the kitchen whilst allowing CDC to achieve the fully flexible family / party space requested beyond. The folding roofline shapes are crafted and lined in silver fir timber plus acoustic felt, affording a very warm and cosy feel to the high volume spaces.

The long underside of the roofline is visible at full length of the building and delicately supported by a single steel post sat onto a concrete sheer wall. High level glazing allows the roofline to be viewed through the house, connecting the open plan space with the hallway and study beyond. Internally a bespoke dining room bench adds a sense of fun and colour using the clients family tartan as fabric to the seating area.

The character of the thatched barn is emphasized by embracing its full height to the ridge, offering modest but usable guest rooms wrapped in painted timber boarding. These were identified for immediate family use, the height helping to overcome their narrow nature on plan, integrated wardrobes, back panels and pegs for hanging make them hard working spaces. A separate master suite spreads into the new volumes providing dressing, bathroom and a private patio area which offers the clients a place for quiet retreat when guests are staying.

The house boasts its own private ‘Gin and Tonic’ balcony. The mezzanine space creates a private second sitting area with a concealed timber stair nestled between concrete sheer walls to provide access. It is quiet yet connected to the main space, and commands views to the west with a fully opening rooflight to let the outdoors in. A separate guest suite and shower room afford privacy to occupants and visitors alike.

Built primarily from timber frame with woodwool insulation and concrete sheer walls, the house incorporates air source heat pumps and photovoltaics and will be monitored for its energy use over the course of the year. The extended roofline and orientation provides solar shading to the solar controlled west facing glazing with the careful positioning of rooflights to prevent overheating in the height of summer, plus water run off is directed to a salvaged historical water trough which the clients will use to water the garden.

The linear design is extended into the immediate landscape with water rills extending out like fingers into the wider area which over time the clients will begin to accentuate with their planting.

Our clients concluded “CDC showed just the right combination of imagination and persistence, leading to an individual home that meets all our requirements and fits into its surroundings. Throughout the project we have benefitted from their attention to detail and their real interest in how we intend to live in our new house. 3 months in and we are VERY house proud!”

Gables House in Cambridge UK – Building Information

Architects: chadwickdryerclarke.studio

Structural Engineers: Michael Hadi Associates

Project size: 200 m2 Completion date: 2020 Building levels: 1

Images: Nick Hufton and Al Crow

Gables House, Cambridgeshire England images / information received 130721

Location: Cambridge, south east England, UK

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