Span estates, renowned as postwar design classics, continue to captivate architecture enthusiasts and potential homeowners alike. These iconic homes, designed by distinguished architect Eric Lyons and developer Geoffrey Townsend, were purposefully crafted to "span the gap" between hastily constructed suburbs and meticulously designed residences. With 73 estates encompassing a total of 2,100 homes, these communities offer a unique blend of traditional and modern living in the home counties, including Surrey, Kent, and London.
Eric Lyons and Geoffrey Townsend envisioned Span estates as car-friendly communities with innovative features. Each estate boasts car-free "village greens" at the forefront, while garages are strategically placed at the back. The diverse range of home sizes, from one-bedroom flats to four-bedroom houses, encourages residents to remain within the community throughout their lives. Complementing this residential diversity are comprehensive facilities such as shops, schools, and post offices, effectively forming self-sustaining communities.
These architectural gems have attracted a devoted following among suburban art enthusiasts, architects, and young professionals priced out of central London. Span estates are celebrated for their varied designs, which include hexagonal villas and distinctive Algarve-on-Thames style homes. Some estates, like Weymede in Byfleet, experience high demand, with property prices ranging from £170,000 to £380,000.
"Keep an eye out for the copycat developments often built around the same time and in the same area, such as those built by Wates. Not as well detailed, a bit more identikit, but a little birdie tells me they're beginning to be sought after." – Elaine Marconi
Specialist agents and dedicated websites such as weymede.co.uk and span-kent.co.uk facilitate the buying and selling of Span homes. These platforms are invaluable resources for those seeking specific home designs or original fittings like doors, parquet floors, handles, kitchens, and bathrooms.
"Span-fans are the ultimate nerds, so do your research. Get to know your K2 designs from your T2s. You'll soon understand what distinguishes a Span home from bog-standard postwar. Original fittings are sought after: doors, parquet floors, handles, kitchens and bathrooms." – John Hall
The book "Eric Lyons & Span" provides a comprehensive list of Span estates and homes for enthusiasts and potential buyers. Prices for Span homes vary based on location; for instance, three-bedroom terraces in Blackheath are valued between £380,000 and £440,000. Meanwhile, some homes requiring modernisation start at £215,000 for a two-bedroom flat in Parkleys, Ham.
"Many exchange privately, through specialist agents or websites such as weymede.co.uk and span-kent.co.uk. Or, for a specific home design, try leafleting." – Margaret Saunt