Gayton House named finalist in two Housebuilder Awards 2026 categories

Lilyford is delighted to announce that Gayton House, our new later-living development in Yateley, has been selected as a finalist in not one, but two categories at the Housebuilder Awards 2026: Best Regeneration Initiative and Best Retirement Scheme.

The double recognition reflects two sides of the same story: the transformation of a long-neglected local site, and the thoughtful new homes now taking shape at its heart.

Located at the junction of Vicarage Road and Village Way, Gayton House has transformed a prominent but previously derelict corner of Yateley. The development has reclaimed a former petrol-station and car-sales site, remediated contaminated land and retained the locally listed Edwardian villa that gives the scheme its distinctive character.

Rather than taking the simplest route, Lilyford returned to the drawing board following early planning feedback. The final scheme restores and incorporates the original villa, creates an attractive new gateway into the town, and delivers 22 beautifully designed one- and two-bedroom apartments exclusively for the over-60s.

Regeneration shaped by Yateley

Being shortlisted for Best Regeneration Initiative recognises more than a physical change to the streetscape.

From the outset, Gayton House was shaped through conversation with local people, councillors and community groups, including the Yateley Society. The result is a development that takes cues from Yateley’s period architecture, retains an important local building and brings new life to a once-overlooked site.

The project has also delivered substantial environmental improvements. Former underground fuel tanks were removed, contaminated ground remediated and ground-source heat pumps installed, helping to achieve a 66% reduction in on-site carbon emissions. A new sheltered courtyard garden adds accessible green space where there was previously none, while a ground-floor commercial unit helps create an active frontage and support local employment.

As former Mayor of Yateley, Cllr Gerry Crisp has described Gayton House as “regeneration in the truest sense of the word” — a transformation that creates a more welcoming entrance to the town while reflecting the character of its surroundings.

Retirement living, rethought

Gayton House is also a finalist for Best Retirement Scheme, recognising Lilyford’s approach to later living: homes designed around how people actually want to live.

Every apartment exceeds national space standards and is designed to be wheelchair adaptable. Many are dual aspect, bringing light and outlook from more than one direction. Inside, small but important decisions make everyday life easier, from level thresholds and walk-in showers to practical kitchens, simple manual controls and generous picture windows.

The development is about more than the apartments themselves. Residents have access to a shared Living Space with a coffee bar and lounge, a guest suite for visiting friends and family, a landscaped courtyard garden, a 24-hour emergency careline and an on-site House Manager throughout the working week.

Lilyford also supports buyers through the moving process, with assisted-sale, removals and move-in support available to help make the transition as straightforward as possible.

A proud moment for Lilyford and Yateley

For a small, family-run housebuilder, being named a finalist in both categories is a meaningful recognition of the care, persistence and collaboration behind Gayton House.

The development represents a complete transformation: a difficult brownfield site turned into an elegant new address, and a retirement community designed to offer security, independence and connection in the heart of Yateley.

We are proud of what has been achieved alongside everyone who has helped shape the scheme — and delighted that Gayton House has been recognised among the best new developments in the country.

Discover Gayton House
Explore the apartments, shared spaces and life at Yateley’s newest later-living address. Arrange a viewing with the Lilyford team on 01730 770 660 or visit the Gayton House development page.