Octagon: Country & Town Interiors Book 2023

With over 40 years’ experience of building high-quality homes in some of Britain’s most exclusive residential areas, Octagon Developments has an unrivalled reputation for delivering the very best in luxury property. There are three established brands under the award-winning Octagon Group name – Octagon, Octagon Bespoke and Chancery Homes – plus an in-house interior design service, Octagon Interiors. With this comprehensive design service, Octagon Interiors encompasses scene-stealing interior architecture and specification, through to characterful room schemes featuring custom-built furniture, upholstery, striking window treatments, and decorative accessories. The interior team are involved from initial conversations with the architects to the finishing touches on your coffee table.

A magnificent family residence situated on the prestigious St George’s Hill in Weybridge, Surrey, offers one of the first glimpses inside a completed Octagon Interiors property. Spanning in excess of 14,000 sq/ft, with a design brief to create a warm and welcoming, yet luxurious home, the company created a sumptuous space with a clean, sleek and contemporary look. Overall, the colour palette is one that exudes elegance while incorporating new and emerging home trends across the six bedrooms, eight bathrooms and six reception rooms.

The company’s innovative turn-key service has proven invaluable to a growing band of Octagon clients who appreciate the seamless support from the dedicated interiors teams, headed up by Martin Brown for technical architecture and Rachel Hall for design. With all departments and services under one roof, clients save valuable time and expense, and above all, have peace of mind, knowing that their new home is in safe, professional hands. With an expert team and long-standing relationships with the very best suppliers and craftsmen, Octagon prides itself on going the extra mile, offering an exceptional service to clients while focusing on creating bespoke, considered, and exquisite interiors.

Tips, Tricks & Tools

1. ‘Use an expensive, statement fabric on the front of cushions, and a more cost-effective plain fabric on the back – it’s rarely seen.’
2. ‘Add feature wallpaper to the back of a bookcase and position LED strip lighting at the back of the shelf. This creates an interesting focal point in the room.’
3. ‘Include artificial floral and foliage displays on a coffee or dining table. They are very long lasting and require little to no maintenance.’
4. ‘Choose bold patterned wallpapers for small spaces such as the downstairs WC. This is a great space to show off to your guests, and probably the most visited room.’
5. ‘Add trims to soft furnishings to tie in colour and add detailing to a design. Fringing is a soft, tactile option, and very on trend.’

Secret Address Book

• Fabric: Romo has a fantastic showroom at Chelsea Harbour and is our go-to fabric supplier (romo.com).
• Rugs: We often use Jacaranda’s collection of handwoven Shine rugs (jacarandacarpets.com).
• Architect: Wholesale Creepers Nursery always delivers an exceptionally high service (creepersnursery.co.uk).

OCTAGON INTERIORS
Weir House, Hurst Road East Molesey KT8 9AY
+44 (0)20 8481 7500
octagon.co.uk
@octagondevelopments

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The Best Holiday Homes On The Market Right Now

Tourrettes-sur-Loup, France

Searching for a sunny second home but don’t want the hassle of owning one? Check out the newest offering from August, an exclusive lifestyle network offering families co-ownership of numerous incredible properties across Europe. This spectacular five-bedroom holiday home can be found on the outskirts of the charming village of Tourrettes-sur-Loup on the French Riviera – just a 45-minute drive from Nice Airport. Interiors are reminiscent of Soho House, and yet they also pay homage to the local area, with elegant open-plan spaces and stunning views. There is a games room, gym and swimming pool to explore, plus a pergola for outdoor parties and a Pétanque court providing the perfect after-dinner entertainment. The best part? Every outpost in the collection is managed by August, removing the usual stress of holiday home ownership. €680,000 for a 1/21 share of five homes, including this villa, a chalet in Chamonix, a townhouse in Mallorca, a villa in Tuscany and a farmhouse in the Cotswolds. For more information, visit augustcollection.co.uk

Villatura, Quinta do Lago, Portugal

Arranged across four floors and over 1,300 square metres of living space, this is a holiday home of truly palatial proportions, boasting a jaw-dropping contemporary design which offers unbeatable luxury. You’ll find seven bedrooms and ten bathrooms as well as a cinema room, bar, gym and private spa. With an array of terrace areas and balconies to explore, you can sunbathe, entertain or simply enjoy the views of this spectacular location. Available through Quinta do Lago Real Estate. quintadolago.com

Finca Cortesin, Spain

Designed by esteemed Brazilian architect Marcio Kogan, these villas at Finca Cortesin are truly one-of-a-kind. A colour palette of soft neutral tones works perfectly alongside wooden panels and floor-to-ceiling windows to create a feeling of unblemished tranquility, reinforced by glorious views of the Spanish hills. Searching for a piece of paradise? Look no further. From €4.6 million. mcollectionproperty.com

California, USA

An original 1920s beach house on the Santa Monica Gold Coat, this villa has five ensuite bedrooms in additions to its own spa room. The primary suite showcases the view of the sea with walls of glass – and if you don’t fancy a swim in the ocean, you’ve got your own private infinity pool. It further boasts its own cinema, games room and gym. £20.3 million. hamptons-international.com

Barcelona, Spain

Bordering two lively neighbourhoods in the centre of the Catalonian capital, this Art Nouveau apartment retains its 19th century accents, high-vaulted ceilings and cast iron railings. It’s part of August’s Pied à Terre collection, which also includes shares in homes in London, Paris, Rome and Cannes. €340,000/share. augustcollection.co.uk

Algarve, Portugal

Enjoy over 300 days of Mediterranean sunshine each year in these Horizon villas. The collection of residences all host either five or six bedrooms and are kitted out with private home cinemas, spas and gyms. The wine cellars and private chefs’ kitchen are just an added bonus. From £3.9 million. onegreenway.pt

Hokkaido, Japan

Nestled in the heart of the Izumikawa golf course and with access to the best ski resort in the region, this serviced luxury chalet is a versatile holiday home for all seasons. A recent build, it offers four bedrooms for hosting – your guests can also enjoy the steamy hot tub and relaxing fireplace. £1.67 million. christiesrealestate.com

Cotswolds, UK

There’s nothing dreamier than a cabin by the water. Nestled on the shore of Marley Lake, these two-bedroom rural Cotswolds cabins in The Lakes by Yoo allow direct access to the water, opening up outdoor adventures like wild swimming and paddleboarding. Retractable glass doors further bring the outside in. The ideal staycation escape. £1.5 million. thelakesbyyoo.com

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The Best New Homes on the Market Now

Coombe Park, Kingston upon Thames

This Neo-Georgian family home certainly boasts a handsome façade – and the interiors are just as impressive. Check out the drawing room, formal dining room and vast kitchen/family room, or head upstairs to explore five generous bedrooms and a study. The west-facing rear garden completes the wonderful property, offering beautiful borders and a patio area. Available through Knight Frank at a guide price of £2.788 million 

Alleyn Road, Dulwich, London

This delightful home provides five bedrooms, three bathrooms and a show-stopping heated swimming pool in the garden. From the spacious open-plan kitchen to the charming outdoor terrace, there is plenty of room to entertain – and you can kick back and relax in one of two gorgeous reception rooms after going for a swim. Available through Knight Frank at a guide price of £3.5 million 

Aish Cross House, Aish

This sprawling residence encompasses a five-bedroom family home alongside three holiday letting cottages. The main house offers period fireplaces, high ceilings and sweeping rooms – the large farmhouse-style kitchen and bright conservatory are particular highlights. Guests at the cottages can enjoy the gardens, explore the orchard, or relax in one of multiple outdoor seating areas. If you’re looking for a rural haven with added income potential, this is the property for you. Available through Marchand Petit at a guide price of £2 million

The Grove, Middleham, Leyburn

Looking for something unique? This handsome home is on the market for the first time in over a century. It offers eight bedrooms including a self-contained apartment on the second floor, and there are two holiday-let properties on the grounds consisting of a two-bedroom gatehouse and a one-bedroom cottage. Standout features of the main house include a glossy kitchen, vast hallway and enormous principal suite with curved walls. With stunning views and so much additional space, what more could you ask for? Available through GSC Grays for offers over £1.65 million

Chelsea Botanica, Imperial Park, London

If you’re dreaming of a luxe London pad, you won’t want to miss out on these gorgeous apartments, which feature gardens designed in collaboration with the Royal Botanic Gardens in Kew. Each home has its own private outdoor space, with courtyard areas on the ground floor and balconies above. There are also communal areas including yoga and Pilates decks and woodland work pods kitted out with power sockets and WiFi. The best part? Residents can enjoy access to a dedicated 24-hour concierge service, residents’ lounge and co-working space in the Atelier Club, plus a first-of-its-kind residential fitness suite which was created in partnership with Peloton. All this, just moments away from the River Thames and Imperial Park? It’s everything you need and more. Available through Knight Frank. For more information, visit knightfrank.co.uk

Seas End Hall, Spalding, Lincolnshire

This magnificent home sits within 24 acres of immaculate grounds. The main house provides eight bedrooms, six bathrooms and five reception rooms, and the enormous kitchen/dining area is perfect for entertaining. The estate also contains a coach house and equestrian facilities including three brick stables, plus a full-size cricket pitch and a pavilion. This is country living at its very best. Available through Fine & Country at a guide price of £1.75 million 

Lea House, Clanage Cross, Bishopsteignton, Exeter

This jaw-dropping home offers a dizzying array of amenities including a tennis court and swimming pool, plus stables and paddocks. Inside the property, you’ll spot a sleek, contemporary kitchen, four stunning reception rooms and a study, as well as six bedrooms and five bathrooms. With verdant gardens and outdoor entertaining areas, this is truly a faultless find. Available through Robert Williams at a guide price of £3 million

Compton Terrace, Islington, London

This Grade II listed Georgian townhouse is arranged over five floors, offering two reception rooms and six bedrooms. Particularly unique is the vast internal width of each room, creating airy spaces steeped in elegance. With such a sought-after Islington postcode, this house is truly one-of-a-kind. Available through Savills at a guide price of £4 million

Albion Drive, London

If you’re into incredible interiors, you’ll adore this four-bedroom house designed by award-winning architects Chris Dyson and Nord Studio, with interior design by AD 100 designer Katty Schiebeck. The spectacular home contains four bedrooms, two bathrooms and three reception rooms, plus a utility room, wine cellar and private sauna room. For added luxury, there is a rear extension comprising a bar and home cinema. Available through Savills at a guide price of £3.28 million 

Nanquidno, West Penwith, West Cornwall

You’ll find this delightful period home in one of the most tranquil valleys in West Penwith – a stone’s throw from the South West Coast Path and some truly exquisite coastal walks. The property offers three bedrooms and three bathrooms plus a detached one-bedroom barn conversion and multiple outbuildings including a garage. Available through Lillicrap Chilcott for £899,950

Check out the previous week’s properties:

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The Best New Properties on the Market Now

The Best Country Homes on the Market Right Now

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MORE PROPERTY:

Swoon-Worthy Homes / Romantic Country Properties /  The Best Barn Conversions on the Market Now / Country Interiors

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Smashing Properties with Tennis Courts on the Market Right Now

Queen Edith’s Way, Cambridge

Occupying an enviable location in the heart of Cambridge, this 1920s detached house boasts surprisingly generous grounds that encompass a detached garage, a guest annexe, and the all-important tennis court. Check out the impressive vaulted ceiling in the entrance hall, the woodburner in the living room, and the magnificent orangery. There are five bedrooms and four bathrooms, so plenty of guests can enjoy a game of tennis in this gorgeous home. Available through Cheffins for £2.5 million

Heathfield House, Merton Lane, London

You’ll find this jaw-dropping six-bedroom mansion in the tranquil London neighbourhood of Highgate. The property is brimming with incredible amenities including a gym, spa, swimming pool and billiards room, and there are two acres of landscaped gardens plus a tennis court. With such incredible design – not to mention stunning views of Hampstead Heath – what more could you ask for? Available through United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty for £32 million 

Goodleigh, Barnstaple, Devon 

This Grade II listed Devon longhouse offers a heated outdoor swimming pool, double garage and a modern agricultural barn alongside a beautiful tennis court. Inside the property itself, you’ll find five bedrooms, three bathrooms and three reception rooms. It’s a rural dream. Available through Jackson-Stops at a guide price of £1.35 million

Drove House, Surfleet, Lincolnshire

This charming period property sits in 13 acres of grounds containing equestrian facilities, an outdoor swimming pool and a tennis court. The property boasts five double bedrooms and three bathrooms, plus a drawing room, family room and garden room. There is also an adjoining two-bedroom annexe. Available through Fine and Country at a guide price of £1.495 million 

The Street, Frittenden, Cranbrook, Kent

This former rectory dates back to the eighteenth century and contains eight bedrooms, five bathrooms and five reception rooms. Within approximately ten acres of land, you’ll find a tennis court, a garage block and a stable block with a games room. Available through Knight Frank at offers in excess of £5.5 million

Upton Magna, Shrewsbury, Shropshire

This elegant period property provides five bedrooms, three bathrooms and four reception rooms. The landscaped gardens, however, just might be the star of the show: think paved terracing, fruit trees and a grass tennis court. Available through Knight Frank at a guide price of £1.75 million

St George, Rue Des Deslisles, Castel, Guernsey

This property is Guernsey‘s answer to real estate heaven. Plentiful palatial rooms blend traditional opulence with modern luxury: play a game on the all-weather tennis court, host drinks in the landscaped gardens, sit down for dinner in the grand dining room, retreat to the light-flooded garden room for post-dinner drinks, and at some point – guests must see the magnificent indoor swimming pool. Available through Savills for £25,000,000.

Dalhebity House, Bieldside, Aberdeen, Scotland

© neil@aberdeenphoto.com

Boasting an enchanting setting set amongst majestic trees, this is one of Scotland’s most magnificent homes ­– and it’s currently the most expensive on the Scottish property market. It’s the mansion of dreams with its endless period rooms ­– think grand dining room, wood-panelled library and jaw-dropping entrance hall ­­– as well as spa complex, tennis court, swimming pool and 10 acres of grounds and woodland. Available through Savills for offers over £7,500,000.

Alexander, Peloponnese, Greece

If Wimbledon common just doesn’t feel dramatic enough, try this tennis court on for size. Perched on a rocky outcrop with panoramic views over the Aegean-sea, its hard to imagine a more photogenic spot for a hit-about. And the courts are only the start of this sleek modern villa. With nine bedrooms, landscaped gardens, vast sunset terraces, and a tunnel leading down to the beach, this home combines traditional Greek romance with all the comfort of modern living. In between working on your forehand, you can take a dip in the salt water pool, stroll along the shore, or hop over to bustling neighbouring islands. Beats Wimbledon high street any day. Available through Sotheby’s International Realty for price on request

Ferry Lane, Bourne End, Buckinghamshire

Boasting an enviable riverside position, endless amenities and breathtaking interiors, this palatial property is the country house of dreams. There’s the sweeping statement staircase, seven stunning bedroom suites, the cinema room, swimming pool and tennis court, an additional guest house, two staff cottages and a dreamy boat house with a guest apartment. Available through Knight Frank and Savills for £36,500,000.

South Ridge, St Georges Hill, Weybridge, Surrey

Tucked away in the affluent Surrey neighbourhood of St Georges Hill, this six-bedroom home is ideal for entertaining friends and family. There’s an al fresco leisure area complete with BBQ, pool and outdoor bar. If you venture further into the grounds you’ll find over two acres of landscaped gardens, tennis courts and even a golf course. Available through Savills for £7,950,000.

Hipwells, Northamptonshire

This detached farmhouse is what tempts so many people to the country: the seemingly inordinate amount of space. There’s over 5,476 sq. ft of accommodation inside, boasting seven double bedrooms and five reception rooms. There’s also a heated pool outside, a tennis court and a detached pool house. This property really does have everything you would want for your perfect family home. Available through Michael Graham for £1,750,000.

MORE PROPERTY:

Best Country Homes on the Market / Best New Properties / The Best Properties With Swimming Pools On The Market Now

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Jasper Conran’s Former Home Is Up For Sale

Standing tall on the banks of the River Thames in Chiswick, Walpole House is a magnificent, Grade I listed property with an impressive legacy: previous inhabitants include Thomas Walpole, nephew of Prime Minister Sir Robert Walpole; Barbara Villiers, Duchess of Cleveland and Mistress of King Charles II; and British novelist William Thackeray, who was educated there. 

Though its jaw-dropping Georgian façade and lush grounds might give the elegant air of a country estate, this beautiful property is only six miles away from Mayfair.  It boasts almost 9,000 square feet of internal space encompassing seven spacious bedrooms and five reception rooms. From the striking entrance hallway, you can explore the dining room, kitchen, breakfast room and sitting room, or head to the lower ground floor to find a second kitchen, utility area and cellar, plus a gym and steam room. A further reception room on the first floor offers particularly incredible river views thanks to multiple sash windows.

Outside, there is a double garage with private gated parking, and historic walled gardens featuring ornamental ponds and a greenhouse. If you’re on the hunt for even more space, there is an additional river-edged garden with access to the Thames.

With sprawling rooms, gorgeous views and so much outside space – not to mention a dizzying price of £16.5 million – this property is a rare gem.

Available through Savills and Knight Frank

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‘Accessibility Should Be In The Essence Of The Home’: Interview With Inclusive Design Expert Vaila Morrison, RIBA

Your work explores the connection between sustainability and inclusivity, focusing on design that is not simply eco-friendly but also able to meet our day-to-day needs. Could you tell us a bit more about how eco-design and inclusivity interact?

The term sustainability is often used as shorthand to describe improved energy efficiency, but true sustainable design is much wider than that. 

The widely-accepted aim of sustainable development is for us to meet our present needs without compromising the needs of future generations.  Sustainable design and development should be a balance between three main areas of impact: environmental, social and economic. Being eco-friendly is only a part of the whole. 

Of the three themes, the concept of financial viability is probably the one which most automatically becomes part of the design process.  No matter the size of our project, we are used to looking at budgets, weighing up current investment against long term gains. 

The social impact is more difficult to quantify, and is not always given as much emphasis; however, community, health and wellbeing are just as crucial for us in the present and in the future, and this is where inclusive design fits into the picture. 

What are the cornerstones of inclusive design?

Inclusive design is when we aim for our building or product to include as many people as possible, by considering the widest human diversity and range of accessibility needs. 

When asked about inclusive design, I always want to stress that it’s not just something to consider for disabled or older people. Inclusive design benefits all life stages, from babies in prams and toddlers learning to take their first steps right through to reduced mobility in old age.

All of us will have changing needs throughout our lifetime and an inclusive home is one that has been designed to work for and with these changes as easily as possible, without the need for complicated or costly adaptations.

I’d say the top three inclusive design features to think about are getting there, getting in and out and getting to the loo!

What do you like most about your role as Inclusive Design Expert at stairlift and home lift company Stannah?

I’m delighted to be working with Stannah in their quest to arm people with the knowledge about how to future-proof their homes, to enable them to continue to live well for as long as they want to in their current homes. 

Many people put off thinking about how ageing might affect them, and home adaptations have a bit of a negative press. I love that Stannah is helping people to embrace the positives: that it’s absolutely not ‘giving in’ to think about making changes. Quite the opposite, in fact! Thinking about inclusive features at home is a fantastic investment in the future to allow you to keep being you, and to make your home welcoming and accessible for all your friends and family.

What does a ‘future-proof’ home mean to you?

Building sustainably is future-proofing.  Eco-design will help to create comfortable, warm and well-ventilated homes that cost less to run, and if this approach is taken hand-in-hand with good inclusive design, we can create homes that will allow everyone to be able to live independently or to participate fully with family life as naturally as possible.

A future-proof home means bringing together those three themes of sustainability: environmental, social and economic. It’s about investing in quality, longevity, and with future scenarios in mind to make the home as adaptable as possible with minimal effort.

Accessibility and inclusion should be in the essence of the home, not an add-on.  If it is integrated into your plans from the beginning, it’s not only going to be more economical to do, but it will feel like a natural part of the home, almost unnoticeable except to those who need it.

Recent research by The Passivhaus Trust has revealed that buildings are accountable for around 35% of global energy consumption. How can the property sector work towards being more sustainable?

Overlay sketches done by Vaila for the Changing Places toilet campaign

When I started out as an architect in the late 90s, sustainability was just beginning to make the mainstream design media.  Until then it had been seen as a bit niche, a bit hippy dippy!

I’ve been delighted to watch more and more home design features and shows focus on the environmental aspects of sustainability and I think more people are recognizing the value of that in their own homes.  As homeowners we are always balancing the economics of what we do, whether a large investment now will pay out over time, so that aspect of sustainable design often takes care of itself, however I would love to see the property sector place more value in the social side of sustainability [and] value wellbeing, connectivity to community, and inclusivity in design. 

How do you think architecture and design have changed in the wake of the climate crisis?

The building design industry has been increasingly stepping up to improve upon energy performance of new buildings.  There are now many standards (legislative and voluntary) that have come into play to help incentivize environmental performance. 

However, alongside the climate crisis, we have a more human crisis to consider too, in that we are an aging population. People are living longer, and, with amazing accelerating steps forward in medicine, people with health conditions and disabilities are living longer and should not be held back in being able to live their lives to the fullest.

Without the features that make for easy adaptation, there is a real risk of people having to make do, which can impact health outcomes and lead to isolation. Not only can this have a devastating impact on individuals, but the knock-on effect can be costly to society too, resulting in longer hospital stays, or even having to move into a care home, only through lack of accessibility at home.

Therefore, as a society, we must pay more attention to creating inclusive and accessible homes and communities where people feel welcome, safe, and that they belong. 

What is inspiring you in the sustainable design space right now?

I’m a big fan of timeless classics in design, whether that be Victorian or Edwardian, mid-century or even a bit of Corbusian modernism!  And I’ve always been interested in the materials – again, classics like brick and timber. 

I’m really inspired by the emphasis on the use of healthy, quality building materials at the moment, which will not only improve our relationship with the environment, but can also provide direct health benefits for those using the building. 

Ventilation has been very topical over the last few years, throughout the pandemic. Previously it was thought about  more often in large public buildings or places of work; however, holistic ventilation strategies are becoming a more common feature in home design too.

Due to poor build quality, and actually sometimes due to the extreme airtightness of eco-homes, many homes can be prone to poor air quality and can be susceptible to mould and mildew.  Opening windows to allow ventilation means losing all the heat you have tried to save, and therefore defeats some of the efforts made in energy efficiency.  A home ventilation system can help retain the heat and improve overall health with fresh air to breathe. 

Of course it’s easiest to achieve the gold standard in sustainability if you start from scratch, but do remember that most of our homes are older buildings and ‘reuse, reduce, recycle’ is the mantra of being eco-friendly, so anything we can do to improve any of our buildings, no matter the style or era – [and] both in terms of energy efficiency and in terms of accessibility – is helping in that goal to become a more sustainable society.

To find out more about Vaila’s work, visit stannah.com or read her blog posts on inclusive design and future-proofing. 

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You Can Now Live on the Site of A Historic Roman Villa

The pool house. Image credit: Ed Shepherd

This Grade I listed country home tells a rather astonishing story: it stands on the remains of one of the largest Roman villas in England. 

Although the property has been gradually and meticulously restored, its glorious heritage can still be glimpsed in its interiors – and in the spectacular Romanesque pool house in the garden. 

Now covered, the remains of the Roman villa reach across a two-acre plot, with the entire estate encompassing 85 acres of land. It sits in an enviable location close to the bustling market towns of Stroud and Nailsworth, offering both charming village scenes and breathtaking bucolic views.

Image credit: Ed Shepherd

Known as The Old Priory, the house itself dates back to the 16th century. Beyond the exquisite vaulted entrance hall is an array of grand rooms including a drawing room, dining room and library, plus an enormous principal suite which occupies its own wing of the property. There are four further bedrooms and bathrooms, and you’ll even find a secret tower room hidden within one of the suites.

The professional kitchen is particularly impressive, featuring glossy work surfaces and a beautiful stove. You can curl up in front of the cosy fireplace in the sitting room, or head downstairs to explore the cavernous wine cellar.

The study. Image credit: Ed Shepherd

For comfortable country living, there is a plant room, boot room and utility room – and outside you’ll find a variety of outbuildings such as a three-bedroom cottage and a stable block. 

Alongside the all-important swimming pool and the pool house (which boasts a staggering 32-foot entertainment room), there is a tennis court, a Victorian spring water garden and an enormous lake. You can also take a stroll across the formal lawns, wander through the woodland or check out the orchard.

With such rich heritage and truly stunning interiors – not to mention gorgeous grounds – this is a property like no other.

Image credit: Ed Shepherd

Available through Savills and Blue Book Agency for £7.85 million. 

Featured image credit: Ed Shepherd

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The Best Bridgerton-Style Properties: Georgian Houses on the Market Now

72 High Street, Saffron Walden, Essex

Standing proudly on Saffron Walden’s gorgeous tree-lined high street, this Grade II listed property is overflowing with period charm – and it’s on the market for the first time in over 50 years. Inside, you’ll find beautiful wallpaper, grand fireplaces and sash windows, as well as high ceilings with intricate moulded cornicing. There are two bathrooms and seven bedrooms including two delightfully cosy attic rooms, and outside there is a walled garden and a large period barn to explore. With its postcard-perfect exterior, this is a truly fantastic Georgian home. Available through Cheffins for £1.75 million

Stamford Hall Farmhouse, Ettington, Stratford Upon Avon

Tucked away within a development of five restored and converted properties, this marvellous Georgian farmhouse contains numerous period features including exposed timbers, open fireplaces, flagstone floors and cornicing. The drawing room and dining room are particularly elegant, while the vaulted ceiling in the kitchen/breakfast room creates a space that is both grand and delightfully airy. There are five bedrooms plus loft storage and a home office, and outside you’ll find a triple garage with a studio above. Boasting over 8 acres of grounds, this is a stunning home in a fantastic rural setting. Available through Pritchard & Company at a guide price of £1.65 million

Melville Street, Edinburgh

This spectacular Georgian townhouse encompasses a one bedroom apartment and two mews properties, providing masses of additional space. The main house dates back to 1825 and features a jaw-dropping bespoke kitchen with curved cabinetry, an elegant drawing room with large sash windows, and a landscaped private garden. If you’re looking for history and grandeur, you can’t get much better than this. Available through Knight Frank for offers over £3.75 million

Connaught Square, London 

If you’re looking for a showstopping property, you’ll love this Grade II listed Georgian townhouse, which sits in an incredible location beside Hyde Park and contains a unique blend of period and contemporary elements. Cornicing, feature fireplaces and original stone floors are reminders of the history of the property, though you’ll also find an abundance of modern touches including underfloor heating, a lift and an indoor swimming pool. With five bedrooms, six bathrooms and three private terraces, this house has it all. Available through Savills at a guide price of £9.25 million

Kedington, Suffolk

Fancy a space with a story? This Georgian home was once inhabited by Herman Merivale, a poet and playwright who is thought to be a contemporary of Charles Dickens and William Thackeray. The building dates back to around 1850 and features five bedrooms, four reception rooms and two annexes offering further living accommodation. Its most intriguing element is a cheese room, previously used by villagers in the Georgian and Victorian times, which now serves as wine storage. Available through Cheffins for £1.1 million

Edwardes Square, London

This Grade II-listed Georgian townhouse provides an ideal blend of period features and contemporary updates. Ascend the magnificent original staircase to an elegant drawing room with French doors and wooden flooring, or explore the glossy kitchen, separate dining room and stylish reception room on the ground floor. There are four bathrooms and three bedrooms including a spacious principal suite occupying the entire top floor, and you’ll also find a gym, media room and a summer house in the garden. With a sought-after London postcode, this house is an exquisite find. Available through Knight Frank at a guide price of £8.75 million

Woodham Mortimer, Essex

Contrasting its quintessential double-fronted, red brick and white pane window exterior, inside this Georgian home it’s all characterful, dramatic and contemporary interiors. The conservatory is particularly impressive, with its terracotta tiled floor, billowing vaulted ceiling, and wraparound white-paned windows. Available through Savills for £2 million

St George, Rue Des Deslisles, Castel, Guernsey

This property is Guernsey’s answer to real estate heaven. Plentiful palatial rooms blend traditional opulence with modern luxury: host drinks in the landscaped gardens, sit down for dinner in the grand dining room, retreat to the light-flooded garden room for post-dinner drinks, and at some point – guests must see the magnificent indoor swimming pool. Available through Savills for £25 million

Mossknowe House, Gretna Green, Dumfries & Galloway

If you fancy yourself as a Georgian country gent, then Mossknowe House could be your dream home. With over nine acres of gardens and grounds, a stable block and a dressage area, this estate is made for country living. Indoors there’s high ceilings and sash windows throughout (perfect for gazing out over your land). And with the infamous Gretna Green just a short carriage ride away, you’re guaranteed all the period drama you can get. Downton – eat your heat out. Available through Finest Properties for £1.6 million

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Alexander McQueen’s Childhood Home Is Receiving A Blue Plaque

 

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Beloved British fashion designer Alexander McQueen is being honoured with a Blue Plaque, which will be unveiled at his childhood home in Biggerstaff Road, Newham, East London. 

Who Is Alexander McQueen?

Born and raised in Newham, McQueen took a tailoring course at Newham College before studying at renowned London fashion school Central St Martins. He established a luxury fashion house under his name in 1992 and went on to collect a number of prestigious accolades, winning British Designer of the Year four times and International Designer of the Year in 2003. He was also awarded a CBE for services to fashion. McQueen died in 2010.

Throughout his illustrious career, McQueen was known for his skillful tailoring, bold tartan designs and striking runway shows. He worked with celebrities including Beyoncé and Michelle Obama, and his fashion house even designed Kate Middleton’s wedding dress.

When Will The Blue Plaque Be Unveiled?

The Blue Plaque will be unveiled at McQueen’s childhood home on June 30. The unveiling forms part of Newham Heritage Month, which features two further events in his honour: a special screening of the BAFTA-nominated documentary McQueen, plus a Q&A with Ian Bonhôte, the film’s producer and director, and artist Gary James McQueen, the designer’s nephew. 

What Are Blue Plaques?

Dating back to 1866, the London Blue Plaque scheme marks out the homes and workplaces of notable figures. It is now run by English Heritage, and there is a total of 990 Blue Plaques across the capital. 

Famous Blue Plaque recipients include Vincent Van Gogh, who lived at 87 Hackford Road, South Lambeth, between 1853 and 1890; Alan Turing, whose birthplace of 2 Warrington Crescent, Maida Vale, also bears a plaque; and Agatha Christie, who lived at 58 Sheffield Terrace, Holland Park, from 1934 to 1941.

To find out more about London Blue Plaques, visit english-heritage.org.uk

Featured image: Gonzalo Facello, Unsplash

The post Alexander McQueen’s Childhood Home Is Receiving A Blue Plaque appeared first on Country and Town House.