subject: What's your dream home? [print this page] Let's admit itLet's admit it. We've all sat and gazed into space at some point, fantasizing over our dream home and the kind of furniture we would kit it out with.
The saying goes that one man's heaven is another man's hell, and nowhere is this more apt than in the case of homes and interiors. But what are the types of homes that get our imaginations going the most?
For many househunters, a cutting-edge urban home surrounded by trendy bars, good restaurants and exclusive shops is top of the list. They picture it with a huge flat-screen television, designer sofas and modern designer lighting. London has traditionally been the place to go for this kind of luxurious pad, but other cities such as Bristol are becoming highly popular with artists, young professionals and watersports fans.
Others dream of a home close to the seaside, adorned with nautical-themed furniture and fittings. This is most true for people who lived by the sea when they were children - they are almost magnetically drawn to the coast and cannot imagine living anywhere without water nearby. Coastal homes come at a premium though, with areas such as Sandbanks in Dorset commanding some of the world's highest land prices.
Househunters with children or plans for a family tend to dream of a quiet home in the leafy suburbs. A large garden is essential, as is a garage and freedom to indulge in the occasional bit of DIY. Prices can vary hugely, but homes in these areas usually have excellent transport links with major cities.
Eventually, though, nearly all of us find ourselves pining for a big house in the country at some stage in our lives. The idea of living in the countryside, surrounded by nature and traditional rural life can be highly alluring - especially for those who work in large cities. The traditional rural farmhouse remains one the most desirable places to live, and have the kind of character that can be hard to find in urban townhouses.
Your idea of a perfect home may be your best friend's idea of a nightmare. But just remember: it's your dream, it's your home and you can decorate it however you want. Now where's that catalogue...
