Local house builder Hartford Homes has opened up the doors of its latest super-luxury property in Douglas to a group of local construction students, giving them a practical insight in to the modern building process.

The Isle of Man College students and their lecturer visited Belvedere House, a six-bedroom, 16,000 sq ft super-home currently being built by Hartford at Montreux Court, where site manager Dominic McGreevy gave a comprehensive tour.

Sally Mason, who lectures in construction at the college in Willaston, said:

“These sorts of experiences are especially important for the students who have very little construction site experience.  Dominic was fantastic with his commentary. He answered the students varied questions very articulately, making the visit very informative and interesting.”

Due for completion later this summer, the four-storey Belvedere House will feature an indoor pool, spa and gym, cinema, wine cellar, lift, stunning finishes complemented by an expansive glazed rear with panoramic views over Douglas Bay.

Sally added:

“Some of the students are actually making references to some of the construction they noted from this site in their assignments.”

Hartford Homes director James Greenhalgh said:

“We’re keen to help builders of the future with their first steps towards careers in the construction industry.

“Many of our properties and this property in particular feature the very latest in building technology. For instance, the method of construction used here has essentially followed Passivhaus standards which will minimise energy consumption whilst also providing stunning finishes and large spaces. Equally, it’s a smart house wired to be future-proof as the way we use media in our homes evolves.”

He added:

“I’m delighted that this experience has proven not only interesting for the students, but also useful in their studies.”

In the past, James gave a presentation to Castle Rushen High School sixth form students, sharing the company’s experience of the nearby Knock Rushen development. The collection of 45 homes also formed part of the National UK geography A-Level syllabus.

Hartford Homes is also in talks about various projects with Arbory School near to Hartford’s Cronk Cullyn development in Colby.

Photo -Hartford Home’s Belvedere House is under construction and due for completion this summer.