AFFORDABLE HOMES
HOW THRIVE HOMES AND JOHN LEWIS ARE REIMAGINING STYLISH, AFFORDABLE LIVING
Thrive Homes is developing several mixed tenure schemes across the Home Counties, one of the increasingly expensive parts of the UK. These homes include homes available to purchase through Shared Ownership. We know this can be done without compromising on quality, style or sustainability. That’s why we’ve teamed up with the Home Design team at John Lewis & Partners, to show that even when money is tight, our customers can make one of our homes their own with the use of beautiful interior design and inspired styling that doesn’t break the bank. What we have in common with John Lewis – alongside a constant focus on our purpose and our people – is a focus on quality. Our ambition is to offer the very highest quality homes for our customers while ensuring they are also affordable. Our partnership with John Lewis started at our Parkside development in Watford; a 100% affordable development of one, two and three bedroom Shared Ownership homes. Parkside has communal courtyards, resident allotments and direct access to neighbouring Garston Park. Last Christmas, the John Lewis Home Design Stylists transformed our Parkside show home into a festive haven, complete with mince pies and mulled wine. At the sales-led event our customers were given a “tree tutorial” workshop! The busy event allowed our buyers to envision their future homes with stunning furniture and decorations, giving access to the top quality you would expect from In today’s housing market, affordability is a pressing concern for most first time buyers. Whether purchasing outright or exploring Shared Ownership options, the financial challenges for aspiring homeowners to navigate are significant
John Lewis at an accessible price point. As the festive season drew to a close, the wonderful elves at John Lewis refreshed our show home once more. Rather than replacing every single item, they demonstrated the adaptability of John Lewis furniture by targeting low-cost and high-impact changes. One wave of their magic wand and the plump of a cushion or two, together with new bedding and accessories – was all it took to turn the winter wonderland into a refreshed spring and summer paradise. Building on this success, Thrive Homes and John Lewis are now working together on our Abbey Barn Park development in High Wycombe, a selection of 56 homes – ranging from one bedroom apartments through to three bedroom houses – set in 34 acres of parkland and ancient woodland and just 27 minutes from London by train. At Abbey Barn, John Lewis is again creating a bespoke interior design for our marketing suite, including pieces from its affordable ANYDAY range. Amy Laurence, John Lewis Home Design Stylist, explained, “Designing for Thrive Homes has been about finding that sweet spot between style and practicality. Buying your first house can be complicated and expensive – creating a style that’s as unique as you, shouldn’t be. Styling for first time buyers should feel fresh and personal,
combining practical layouts, smart storage, and affordable pieces that reflect their taste – proving that great design doesn’t need a big budget, just thoughtful choices.” Thrive Homes is due to launch Shared Ownership at Abbey Barn Park in July. With deposits from £3,500 on a one bedroom apartment we hope to help more people fulfil their ambition of getting their feet firmly on the property ladder. Amy’s top tips to create practical style wherever you are: 9 For renters: Invest in accessories that can easily move with you, such as rugs, cushions and artwork. This way, you can personalise your space without making permanent changes. 9 For homeowners: Focus on investment pieces like quality furniture and layered lighting that will grow with your lifestyle and increase your home’s comfort and its value. Properties at Abbey Barn are available to move in from October this year. To find out more about Shared Ownership options or starting your homeownership journey with Thrive Homes, visit thrivehomes.org.uk/find-a-home/ To find out more about the John Lewis Home Design Service, visit johnlewis.com/our-services/ home-design-service
94 First Time Buyer August/September 2025
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