Modern House with Basement in Hertfordshire

Mark and Fiona Raistrick have built this wonderful new family home, complete with Glatthaar Keller basement.

Mark had always liked the idea of building his own house. “I came across this house, but it was in a bad state of repair and nobody could get a mortgage on it as it was not structurally sound.” he says. “We decided to get some pre-planning application advice and were told that even though the plot was in a green belt, in principle it would be possible to get permission for a replacement dwelling.

Given that we were restricted in terms of the footprint for a new build, we looked at the option of a basement to give us more living space.  Our architect drew the plans to include a basement with a games and cinema room.”

Mark researched the build and came across Glatthaar Keller at a self-build show.  He met with a representative from the company and went to see some completed projects.  “I looked at one basement, which happened to be only a few doors away from the site and was really impressed with the workmanship.

The basement build started in April and Glatthaar Keller were on site until July. They did the foundations and structural shell, displaying an impressive level of expertise and professionalism. I then managed everything that came after, ie. all the external detailing and interior fit out including external insulation and cladding, green roof, non-structural walls, false ceilings, etc.

My experience of Glatthaar Keller has been a totally positive one. The basement and structure of the house is incredibly solid and sound, and the basement, although it has no natural light, is bright. It’ll be the perfect space for our cinema room and a large games room complete with full size snooker table.”

Visit website