Bungalows are back: why single-storey homes are becoming a top choice for buyers

Around 60% of the homes sold to date at Hayfield Heights are bungalows, a clear sign of their appeal. “At Hayfield Heights we have bungalows extending to 1,512 sq ft, all with garages and some with detached double garages - the sort of floor space you’d typically expect from a four-bedroom home,” she says. “This means beautiful, generous living areas, with modern bifold doors that open straight out onto the garden.”

Energy efficiency: future-proofing your home for later life

Buyers planning ahead are increasingly prioritising energy efficiency and sustainability, not only for environmental reasons but for the reassurance of lower future bills. All homes at Hayfield Heights will have an EPC A rating, thanks to air source heat pumps, solar PV panels, underfloor heating and enhanced insulation. These features deliver a 26% biodiversity net gain as household CO2 emissions could be reduced by up to 92% compared to the average detached home in Gotherington.

“In recent years, we’ve seen a huge shift in buyers focusing on energy efficiency,” Reynolds explains. “New builds retain heat exceptionally well so you’re not constantly feeling cold, and the low maintenance requirements and warranties provide enormous peace of mind later in life.”

A new era of design for bungalows

Another standout example is King’s Water in the Cotswolds - a gated, lakeside development within walking distance of Ashton Keynes. Its bungalows proved so popular that they all sold out in advance of completion, Reynolds notes. Developer Bewley Homes worked with ecological experts to protect and enhance the surrounding natural environment, resulting in an impressive 18% net gain in biodiversity habitats, with the homes built with sustainability at their core.

Reynolds acknowledges that bungalows can carry outdated stereotypes. “People sometimes assume they’re small, stuffy or only suitable for older buyers,” she says. “Developers are now creating beautifully designed spaces with real architectural interest. King’s Water is a great example, with the living area in the bungalows incorporating double-height glazing creating beautiful, light-filled spaces.”

What should I consider when buying a new-build bungalow? 

With demand high and supply limited, securing a bungalow on a desirable development requires a proactive approach. “I’d advise visiting developments early and registering your interest,” says Reynolds. “Depending on the build schedule, bungalows may be released later on. By joining the priority list, you’ll be notified as soon as they become available, often before they reach the open market.”