Factfile:
- Name: Holly Scott
- Instagram account: @hollyscottinteriordesign
- Housetype: The Osmore
- Development: Merlin Gardens, Benson
- #CalaPet: Archie, the Cavachon
Q1: Hi Holly, we think your IG account is full of great interior inspiration so we’re glad we can pick your brain! Can you tell us what made you choose a new build Cala home?
We weren’t actually looking to move house, but we already lived in the village and thought why not have a look at the options as Cala’s Merlin Gardens wasn’t too far. We looked at The Osmore housetype and instantly really liked it. One of the main reasons we moved was because we were able to Cala's Part Exchange service with our old house, which was really simple, and there was a stamp duty break and no estate agent fees, so it seemed like a good next step for us as a family.
Q2: It seems like it was meant to be! Can you tell us what you love most about your Cala home?
What’s not to love. Some of our favourite features of our home is that it has high ceilings, large windows and the whole home has a fantastic quality finish.
Q3: How simple was the process of buying your Cala home?
The process was so quick and easy. It was also really simple as we had great help and advice throughout the process, the communication between us and Cala was great from the start. I also think using Part Exchange made it even more simple!
Q4: How long did the process take from reserving your plot to moving into your new home?
Not long at all, it took us just six weeks from our point of reservation to moving in!
Q5: How did you decide on the colour scheme and tile options for your kitchen?
We purchased a plot that the design options had been chosen already but thankfully we really liked the quartz worktops and the sun-bleached oak floors.
Q6: Where do you find your inspiration?
I take my inspiration from lots of different places. As an interior designer my advice would be to check out magazines and Instagram, as these are great sources of inspiration. Sometimes it can come from surprising places like nature - all of this helps me design my own home and my clients’.
Q7: Do you have any current favourite trends?
I don’t really believe in following trends. I believe in designing homes that we love and make us happy! Trends come and go, but I truly believe in designing homes which reflect the homeowner’s style and personality. I love making sure my clients have a happy place they can retreat to and have a timeless style that doesn’t date.
Q8: What features of your home do you love best, and do you have a favourite room?
I absolutely love our open plan kitchen and dining space, which opens into our gorgeous south facing garden! It’s perfect for summertime with the kids.
Q9: What styling advice would you give to prospective buyers of a new Cala home?
I always tell them to plan their own rooms and design them to reflect their personal style and personality. Add in pops of colour and different textures too. You also can’t go wrong with statement lighting, never underestimate how it can transform your blank canvas which is useful when it’s a new-build home as it can sometimes seem daunting. I’ve launched an online course which teaches you how to design your dream space with access to my little black book of go-to home stores and exclusive discounts - WWW.HAPPYHOMEDESIGN.CO.UK
My top moving tips would be to measure up the house as early as possible to get blinds and shutters etc ordered in time for moving in. Work out if your current furniture will fit and what layout you’ll be going with to place your furniture so that removal teams know which room to put which furniture in.
I’d also say to label your boxes with which room they are going into, declutter before you move, and finally, when looking at plots, remember to look at what direction the sun is coming from. Especially if you want a bright, sunny garden like me!
Q10: Would you recommend Cala Homes to others?
Yes, I really would recommend buying a new home with Cala, as they have a great high-end finish.
We love following our customers’ journeys of buying their Cala home, so make sure to share your pictures on Instagram with us @calahomes.
For information on our developments across Scotland and England, visit our Homes for Sale page or our showhome locator page to find a showhome near you.
