Customer case study: family life in The Sanderson at Hawksley Rise

November 2025

Jodie, her husband Michael, and their three daughters – Millie (11), Lyla (5), and Ava (3 months) – along with their cockapoo Reggie, moved into their Sanderson home at Hawksley Rise earlier this year.

The family were looking for a spacious, modern home to fit their busy lifestyle and love of hosting, and we caught up with Jodie to hear why The Sanderson and Hawksley Rise were the perfect choice for them.

Jodie and her family outside of The Sanderson at Hawksley Rise

When did you move in?

We got the keys in January 2025 and moved in straight away – it finally felt like home!

What made you choose our Hawksley Rise development? What do you like most about the location?

We already loved the area because it’s close to family. We also love going for walks together, and Hawksley Rise has so many great paths and amazing views – perfect for days out with the girls.

Which house type did you choose and why?

We fell in love with The Sanderson show home at The Birches, an older Story Homes site nearby. I could instantly picture our future here, with friends and family around the big open-plan kitchen. It just felt right from the moment we walked in.

What do you love most about your house type?

I love how big and spacious the bedrooms are – there’s plenty of room for the kids. But my favourite part has to be the kitchen. It’s so warm, open, and perfect for family life.

Which room do you spend the most time in?

We spend most of our time in the kitchen. There’s space for a dining table and a sofa, and we’ve got a TV on the wall, so we can snuggle up in the evenings while the girls watch TV in the sitting room.

A view of a lounge area in a Sanderson show home at Ashwood Grange, by story homes.

A view of a kitchen and dining area from a Sanderson show home at Ashwood Grange, by Story Homes.

A view of a dining/ family area in a Sanderson show home at Ashwood Grange, by Story Homes.

A view of the master bedroom in The Sanderson show home at Ashwood Grange, by Story Homes.

A view of a bedroom, including a double bed, from a Sanderson show home at Ashwood Grange, by Story Homes.

A view of the bedroom in The Sanderson show home at Ashwood Grange, by Story Homes.

A view of the bathroom in The Sanderson show home at Ashwood Grange, by Story Homes.

Did you consider a second-hand property? If yes, why did you choose new?

No, I really wanted the new-build experience. I loved seeing the house being built stage by stage, and being able to personalise it with our options made it feel truly ours from day one.

What do you like most about living in a new build?

I love how well-made it is and how warm it keeps – we hardly ever need to turn the heating on. Everything just works perfectly for our family, without the stress of renovating or updating an older home.

Did you consider other housebuilders and if yes, why did you choose Story Homes?

We looked at a few other developers, including Taylor Wimpey, but nothing compared to Story Homes. The quality, attention to detail, and finish of the show home made our decision easy.

Would you recommend, or have you already recommended Story Homes?

Absolutely! I’ve already recommended Story Homes to friends and family. One friend was so impressed with our Sanderson that she’s reserved one on the same site and will be moving in soon.

Thinking about your own Story home?

If Jodie’s story has inspired you, why not experience The Sanderson for yourself? Our brand new show homes are now open at Stonebrook Meadows in Garstang and Ashwood Grange in Middleton St George – the perfect chance to explore this beautiful, family-friendly house type in person.