It gives us all peace of mind

View all 3 photos

For Jayne Hancock and her mum Mary, having each other close at hand is proving invaluable.

Mary has recently moved into a smart, new Norwegian Log Sherwood-style annex next to the Derbyshire home of Jayne and her husband Gary. “She loves it,” says Jayne. “As you get older, you become more vulnerable. That’s not an issue at the moment for Mum, as she’s fit and healthy, but we both know she now has that security of us being next door, and the fact we are there for her.

“For me, I know I can check on her every day and when we have company over, she’s able to see everyone and take part. If she’s not feeling 100% then we can pop across the garden, instead of having to get in a car to drive to see her after work. It’s just so convenient.”

An added bonus is Mary being able to dog sit Jayne’s three Jack Russell Terriers and help out with cooking and cleaning. “The dogs are in their element thinking they have two homes,” laughs Jayne.

The initial idea for the move came from Jayne. “I just felt she was a bit lonely and so suggested a log cabin next to us. I did lots of research, came across Norwegian Log’s website and really liked what I saw. The testimonials and photographs were really helpful, giving us lots of ideas.”

Norwegian Log helped the family through the planning process, applying for a certificate of lawful use as no planning permission was required. Once the company’s build team arrived on site, the cosy annex was completed in under six weeks.

“Everybody who visits thinks it’s amazing and mentions the quality,” comments Jayne. “And all the workmen we’ve had round to sort out the finishing touches have said the same.”

The two bedroom log annex, with an open plan living room/kitchen, utility area and bathroom, sits on what used to be an area of lawn and shrubs in Jayne’s large garden. A wrap-around stylish decking area boasts contemporary outdoor furniture so Mary can make the most of the garden views.

And for other families thinking of following suit and setting up home together, Jayne says: “It’s just such an excellent idea and still gives them independence. My mum is not having to rely on us at the moment but she’s living in our garden within easy reach, but in her own space. It’s just so lovely.”