Category: Lifestyle

Roaming Rooster: direct from the farm
We try to buy local wherever we can. Which is why we were excited to stumble upon Roaming Rooster. Roaming Rooster is a farm shop a little down the road in Higham. If you’ll be new to Fence we’d recommend you pop down there when you move in. Why? First of all, a lot of their meat is reared on their farm. If they can’t produce it on their own farm they source locally in Lancashire. You won’t find factory chickens at Roaming Rooster, all their chicken is free range.
Roaming Rooster believe in sustainable farming. This means they use farming techniques that protect the environment, health and animal welfare. They believe that they ‘should encourage and utilise what our environment naturally provides but replenish where possible to ensure resources such as water, soil and air are conserved, preserved and readily available for generations to come’. Like us, they are a family business and are built on a set of core values inspired by providing a quality product. Their story began all the way back in 1904 so they are a little older than us and are now a third-generation family business (we’re just moving into the second!).
They don’t just sell meat however; you’ll also find a range of condiments in their delicatessen. Don’t have time to pop down or live further afield? You can also visit their website to shop. We love their weekly meat boxes!
You can find out more about Roaming Rooster by clicking here.
17th January 2017
•
Skipton Properties
•
Lifestyle
Key Trends for 2017
We talk to our interior design consultant to get her predictions for popular trends this year. Emma is from EyeCandy Interior Design and has been working with us for close to 5 years now. She works with Caroline, our Creative Director, to make sure each Show Home is perfectly dressed to help you imagine how the space works.
What influences interior design?
When it comes to Home Décor, Interior Design is very closely linked to what you see on the catwalk and we see the popular trends filtering down to Interior Design collections.
What are you predictions for 2017?
There are quite a few new looks to consider if you’d like to freshen up your home or are creating a new home….
Petrol Blue/ Greens
“Denim Drift” has been named Dulux’s colour of the year for 2017. Blue Jeans are a timeless classic & now this shade is set to make its mark on interiors in 2017. For an easy update choose cushions or throws or paint a wall in deep indigo or navy to give an intimate, grown up look to a room.“Greenery” has also been named the ‘Pantone Colour of The Year’ for 2017 and is meant to represent refreshment and revitalization. We will see lots of Greens this year from Lime Green to Emerald.
Terracotta
Warm Materials such as Terracotta tiles will replace the currently popular cool and white tones such as marble. This time round they will have a natural matte finish (not too rustic) and be used as feature walls in bathrooms and for cladding fireplaces.
Cork
This highly versatile material not only adds warmth & texture to spaces, its also ideal at absorbing noise in large open plan spaces. It could be used to clad an entire wall in a home office & used as a giant pinboard & will be used for furniture, Cork Stools, Side Tables etc.
Upholstered Bedheads
They have been a staple in Luxury Hotels for a while now but the bedhead trend is set to be big in 2017 and will replace the timber bed frames that are currently popular. Any shape or size, buttoned, velvet or plain, a bedhead is an easy way to update & add instant style & glamour to a bedroom.
Escapism
Our homes are becoming big open plan spaces more & more and our lives are spent in front of a laptop or smartphone. There is a greater desire to create spaces in our homes with little ‘Nooks’, places to retrieve to that are cosy and relaxing with a calm tranquil feel. Relaxed furniture will follow suit, think deep squashy sofas, oversized loveseats, day beds, sheepskins, chunky knit wool rugs and throws and floor cushions.
Jewel Tones
Pastel shades of Pink & Blue are currently popular but they will be overtaken by Jewel Tones inspired by Metals, Space, Stars, Clouds and the Cosmos. Copper will be replaced by a more Industrial aesthetic of Black Steel, Bronze and Burnished Metals. Raw cut Quartz, Lucite and Opal will add a dash of sparkle. Xray materials, transparent Voile fabrics, floaty silks and sheers will create a lightness and softer romantic touch to this trend.
Grey
Grey was hugely popular in 2016 and will continue to reign in 2017. Lots of different tones of Greys , Grey and White and also deeper, darker Greys with bold accent colours in Jewel tones.
Artisan Furniture
People will start going back to furniture that is very well made and more of an ‘Investment Piece’.
What might we see less of?
I still love marble but it’s pipped to be on the decline, we’ll see if that’s true! Some of the other things we might see declining in popularity are copper, subway and metro tiles (however I still love these too!) and quotation artworks.
12th January 2017
•
Skipton Properties
•
Lifestyle
An interview by British Style Society
Our Creative Director, Caroline, is interviewed by British Style Society, a fashion blog and style hub about her career history to date, what inspires her and gives some tips to aspiring interior designers…..
‘Following on from our recent features on inspiring interiors, Editor Natasha had the pleasure to talk to Caroline Verity, Creative Director of family run company Skipton Properties.
Caroline has a background in advertising, gaining most of her experience at M&C Saatchi in London. As Creative Director, Caroline is in charge of marketing, as well as curating our specifications and designing the company’s show homes. She works closely with architects and interior designers to make sure homes are not only beautiful but make the most of every square foot.
Caroline, please give us a little insight into your creative background.
I joined my family’s business around 5 years ago after a failed change in direction! I had been working at M&C Saatchi, an advertising agency in London, and felt my career was at a bit of a standstill. I’ve always had a passion for politics so I left to do a masters at the London School of Economics. I unfortunately soon realised that being 27 and lacking an income in London is tougher than it sounds on paper. I left after about 3 months and found myself without a job….My father offered me one as a temporary measure whilst I looked for something else. That temporary measure turned into 5 years and counting! My role at Skipton Properties has evolved over the years. I’m now in charge of creative direction which includes everything from the design of our homes and the materials we use, to developing our brand.
What have been your key inspirations for your design and concepts?
I’ve been lucky enough to travel a lot. A lot of my inspiration is drawn from my time in London and New York. I love the paired back contemporary design you find in both cities.
For the full blog post click here.
5th January 2017
•
Skipton Properties
•
Lifestyle
A legal sense of humour!
We received the following from our lawyers. It certainly made us chuckle so we thought we’d share with you!
Merry Christmas!
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN:

Please be advised that all employees planning to dash through the snow in a one-horse open sleigh, going over the fields and laughing all the way are required to undergo a Risk Assessment addressing the safety of open sleighs. This assessment must also consider whether it is appropriate to use only one horse for such a venture, particularly where there are multiple passengers. Please note that permission must also be obtained in writing from landowners before their fields may be entered. To avoid offending those not participating in celebrations, we request that laughter is moderate only and not loud enough to be considered a noise nuisance.

Benches, stools and orthopedic chairs are now available for collection by any shepherds planning or required to watch their flocks at night.

While provision has also been made for remote monitoring of flocks by CCTV cameras from a centrally heated shepherd observation hut, all facility users are reminded that an emergency response plan must be submitted to account for known risks to the flocks. The angel of the Lord is additionally reminded that prior to shining his/her glory all around she/he must confirm that all shepherds are wearing appropriate Personal Protective Equipment to account for the harmful effects of UVA, UVB and the overwhelming effects of Glory.

Following last year’s well publicised case, everyone is advised that EC legislation prohibits any comment with regard to the redness of any part of Mr. R. Reindeer. Further to this, exclusion of Mr. R Reindeer from reindeer games will be considered discriminatory and disciplinary action will be taken against those found guilty of this offence.

While it is acknowledged that gift-bearing is commonly practised in various parts of the world, everyone is reminded that the bearing of gifts is subject to Hospitality Guidelines and all gifts must be registered. This applies regardless of the individual, even royal personages. It is particularly noted that direct gifts of currency or gold are specifically precluded under provisions of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. Further, caution is advised regarding other common gifts, such as aromatic resins that may initiate allergic reactions.

Finally, in the recent case of the infant found tucked up in a manger without any crib for a bed, Social Services have been advised and will be arriving shortly.

Compliance of these guidelines is advised in order for you to fully participate with the festive spirit.
16th December 2016
•
Skipton Properties
•
Lifestyle
Filmore and Union
When buying a home you buy so much more than bricks and mortar. You join a new community. Very often, you start a completely new chapter. With this in mind, we’d like to start using our news area to let you know about some of the things we like in the community. It is our hope that they will be extremely handy for those of you who have just moved to the area.
This week we’re writing about the local eatery, Filmore & Union. We’re lucky to have two of them right on our doorstep in Ilkley and Skipton. They were founded in 2012 and want to make clean eating a part of your lifestyle. Founder, Adele Ashley started Filmore and Union because she was frustrated by the lack of healthy eating options in the area. We had similar frustrations because we believe in healthy body happy soul so couldn’t believe our luck when they first opened.
Healthy food needn’t be bland, or at least not any more. At Filmore and Union they make clean eating taste fantastic. It feels like a treat rather than a chore. Menus changes with the seasons, but our favourite staple is the gluten free coconut pancakes. They are made with gluten free flour and coconut milk, topped with seasonal fruit with a dribble of maple syrup and a spoonful of greek yoghurt. If you’re a savoury fan their scrambled eggs or smashed avocado on toast is also not to be missed. We usually complement our order with a cup of fresh mint tea with honey or a matcha latte and a raw energy juice.
What you might not know about Filmore & Union is that they make all of their cakes and vegan bread themselves in their bakery in Wetherby. Their bakers start at 4:30am to ensure each location gets a fresh delivery each day. Everything you see on the menu is also freshly prepared… they even make their own sugar free ketchup!
Have a dog? Fear not, you can bring your dog along with you!
Want to know more?
You can find their locations, opening times and menus on their website here.
7th December 2016
•
Skipton Properties
•
Lifestyle
Caring for Karndean
Karndean Flooring
We install Karndean flooring in the majority of our Show Homes because its easy to maintain. Scratch a Karndean board and it can easily be lifted and replaced. Damage wood flooring and it either needs to be sanded or replaced with much more difficulty. Karndean is cheaper too and is very close to the real thing!
If you have Karndean flooring caring for it is very easy. Karndean recommend you use their cleaners but there are other brands out there. Make sure you hoover up dirt and grit regularly so it doesn’t damage your floor and add a welcome matt to your home to reduce the chance of bringing dirt and chemicals from the outside. When cleaning your floor with a mop, make sure you don’t drench your floor – the water will impact on the glue bond that holds your Karndean down.
Treat as you would a wood floor, avoid sliding or dragging your furniture! We recommend you buy some protector pads to put on the legs of heavy furniture, especially on things such as chairs which you move about regularly.
For stubborn stains you can spot clean with Karndean cleaner or similar, but be sure to wash off all residue.
A lifetime guarantee
Your Karndean has a lifetime guarantee which should give you peace of mind when you purchase!
5th December 2016
•
Skipton Properties
•
Lifestyle
Did you know? #funfacts
17th November 2016
•
Skipton Properties
•
Lifestyle
Relax at the Coniston Spa
The Coniston Spa has been a favourite of ours since it opened last year. It’s a part of the Coniston Hotel and Country Estate located just outside the village of Coniston in North Yorkshire. A finalist in the Good Spa Guide in 2016 we’re sure it won’t disappoint.
Whether you’re looking for something to do with a friend or a family member or you simply want an hour to yourself the Coniston Spa has something to offer. We tend to go on a regular basis for their manicure and pedicures. They do beautiful, long lasting manicures and have a great range of colours by the brand Jessica. We started to go the Coniston Spa over anywhere in Skipton as it’s so easy to park. With slightly wet nails the last thing you want to do is to walk across town to find your car. At The Coniston Spa, your car is right outside the door.
If you’re wanting to treat yourself we’d recommend the Signature Facial, which they offer a smaller version of at 25 minutes. The full 55 minute version is £55. This facial is great for all skin types, doesn’t irritate and helps with problem skin – they extract if needs be!
What they are known for however and what they may win an award for this year in the Good Spa Guide, is their outdoor vitality pool. With views of the lake in the Coniston Estate, it is not to be missed. Of course, if you’re planning to take a dip during the winter months, the run to the pool may be a bit chilly!
For a full breakdown of the treatments they offer click here.
8th November 2016
•
Skipton Properties
•
Lifestyle
Lifestyle
Victoria Gate: a must see
We popped along to take a look at the newest shopping centre, Victoria Gate in Leeds to see what the fuss was about!
A £165 million investment in Leeds is great for Yorkshire and gives the city an attraction that will draw visitors far and wide. They say the shopping centre was designed around John Lewis, a store the council have been wanting to bring to Leeds for over 40 years. Occupying five floors, its the biggest store on site.
The architects behind the design are a firm called Acme and are based in London. Commenting on the design they have said, ‘we have tried to push the boundaries of retail architecture to create an exterior and interior experience that responds to the rich heritage of built form around us’. They’ve certainly done that. It’s quite a sight for sore eyes. We absolutely love the contrast between the modern concrete lattice roof and the traditional polished stonework.
Expect other big names such as Anthropologie, Russell & Bromley, Calvin Klein and more. We’d recommend you see it for yourself. It’s certainly an experience and the perfect place for your Christmas shop.
24th October 2016
•
Skipton Properties
•
Lifestyle
Christmas, Lifestyle
Business Women’s Day
Our Sales Director spoke to the writers of the blog, The Journal, last week about her work

In a nutshell, tell us about the business you work for Skipton Properties is a family business that builds new homes for families in Yorkshire and Lancashire.
What does your typical day at work look like? What I love about my role is how varied it is. There isn’t really ever a typical day. I can be visiting a potential development, reviewing house styles with our Creative Director or meeting with my team to discuss the build of our homes.
How would you describe the ‘business woman’ side of you in three words? Passionate, Assertive and Empathetic… but I have to add a fourth… which would be ambitious!
How would you describe your style at work? Collaborative.
In your opinion, what makes a successful business woman? Managing work and life successfully and having a husband by my side who takes on just as much as I do at home. The sharing of responsibilities enables you to focus on the tasks at hand at work without any worry of what you might have missed at home. I love what I do but I also love my two children too.
When business is tough, what keeps you going? Passion and people. Passion for what we do and the supportive team I have around me.
Who are your female role models in business? A well-known role model, but I would say Sheryl Sandberg. Her book Lean In is an inspiration for any woman in business.
Do you think business women are treated fairly in your industry? As you might imagine, women are scarce in the construction industry, so my experience of this is limited. However speaking from my own experience, the only challenge for me has been proving myself as a member of the family. My gender has not come into the equation.
What advice would you give to female entrepreneurs starting out on their business journey? Start with why you believe what you believe. I’d recommend reading Simon Sinek’s book ‘Start with Why’ and Warren Berger’s ‘A More Beautiful Question’ to really get your creative juices flowing. Once you have an idea that you can really get behind and have a set of values, which form the core of your business, you should have a recipe for success.
26th September 2016
•
Skipton Properties
•
Lifestyle