From the charm of a distant era to the creator’s own style, homes can express real personality. And nowhere is this more true than in their unique features – where individuality really shines. Here are six properties that draw the eye with their splendour and imagination.
1. Winchester, Hampshire
The name ‘Deer’s Leap’ speaks to this property’s enviable location next to ancient woodlands. Renowned Winchester architect Huw Thomas helped design the unusual, barn-style house, which celebrates the Arts and Crafts movement in its use of natural materials and attention to detail. Across the five-bedroom property, marvel at the handmade oak frame and joinery that’s left exposed, forming magnificent arches over the log-burning chimney and galleried landing.
This property is currently available with Winkworth Winchester on 01962 866777.
2. Marylebone Road, London
This five-bedroom apartment flaunts a distinctive setting in an Art Deco-style mansion block. Stepping from the lively thoroughfare of Marylebone Road, you enter the communal entrance of shining marble floors and a bold water feature. The apartment itself impresses with a 19-foot reception and connecting dining room, a private balcony overlooking shared gardens, and a roof terrace with views across London.
This property is currently on the market with Winkworth Knightsbridge and Chelsea on 020 7589 6616.
3. St. George’s Hill, Surrey
How about some luxury? This villa doesn’t just give you a swimming pool, hammam and jacuzzi, complete with views of the landscaped gardens. The ground floor also boasts a standalone sauna with state-of-the-art technology for an authentic Russian banya experience. And once you’re utterly relaxed? Glide through the 18 rooms of the villa – crowned with an opening rooftop for a flood of natural light – or tour around the two acres of greenery, nestled within St. George’s Hill gated community.
This property is currently available with Winkworth Weybridge on 01932 854400.
4. Ramsgate, Kent
Here’s how to restore a Georgian property for a jewel by the seafront. The owner took almost a dozen years to upgrade the house, carefully sourcing original materials to honour its true character. As a result, the property combines quirky features – like a dumbwaiter between the kitchen and dining room – and touches of luxury, including a basement spa suite with a sauna, steam room and hot tub. And all that’s before you’ve journeyed up the four floors to take in panoramic views of the only working royal harbour in England.
This property is currently on the market with Winkworth Canterbury on 01227 456645.
5. Barnes, London
Creative details like glass flooring over the swimming pool below make this property all the more enticing. At 9397 square feet, the home is one of the largest in Barnes and delights in its private spot with views across the London Wetlands. In fact, the countryside is so close that highland cattle and sheep regularly graze on the bank at the bottom of the garden. Meanwhile, the Barnes Village side of Castelnau awaits with its fashionable farmers’ markets, independent shops and cafes.
This property is currently on the market with Winkworth Barnes on 020 8255 0088.
6. Ashorne, Warwickshire
This 17th century thatched cottage once belonged to a blacksmith and features a double-height drawing room with exposed beams and a sleeping gallery. Tucked away in the village of Ashorne, the property’s terraced gardens enjoy panoramic views of the gentle Warwickshire countryside. What’s more, the cottage pairs rural charm with modern comforts across its two floors, including a light and airy kitchen with Shaker-style units, a Chesneys fireplace in the drawing room, and space for a gym or home office.
This property is currently available with Winkworth Leamington Spa on 01926 956560.