A wonderful contemporary masterpiece in the heart of the city.
Abbey Orchard House
Of the 300 plus drawings produced for Abbey Orchard House, over 100 were for the interior. These drawings were then turned into reality by an award winning joinery company who specialise in bespoke interiors for luxury homes and yachts throughout the world. The result as Kevin McCloud commented is remarkable and breath-taking. Home automation has been seamlessly integrated with this high quality fit out allowing heating, blinds, lights and electrical appliances to be activated and controlled from your phone. The light maple interior gives this large house (approaching 600m2) a cosy feel. And with triple glazing and underfloor heating through no matter what the season your comfort is assured.
After passing through a Japanese gate, the entrance reveals itself. Jasmine trailed over the pergola provides a magical scent as one crosses a stone bridge between flowing water. One enters through the massive maple double doors and into a 30m glazed atrium that connects the two wings of this remarkable house. The influence of Feng Shui plays its part as does the strong visual connection with the surrounding landscape. A gorgeous room for gatherings- full of warmth and harmony. Family and friends will be mesmerised by the warm glow that emanates from the massive wood burner that takes centre stage. And when the mercury rises the warmth of the wood burner will be replaced with the magnificence of the gardens that become part of the room simply by opening the massive glazed doors. As Kevin McCloud stated, this room hits you between the eyes!. Poggenpohl and the architect combined their respective skills to create a kitchen that is practical and elegant, blending seamlessly with the adjacent dining room. A breakfast area is ideal for food on the go! A full range of Wold Sub Zero appliances complete this premium environment.
The double sided wood burner provides ambience for any meal. Combine this with views of the adjacent courtyard, bespoke table, dresser, chairs and lamp fitting and your guest will never want to leave! The engine room of the house, the computer controlled heating and hot water system makes efficient use of heat generated by gas, wood burners and fitted solar panels that endure excellent eco credentials and running costs of this spacious property are kept to a minimum. The snug is a perfect meeting place with seating for ten- this area is located to maximise on the morning light from the east.
The Galleries
Abbey Orchard House doesn't have corridors. Instead these connecting spaces have been designed at double width to allow art or collections to be displayed with space to contemplate.
Cinema Room
An integrated 120 screen combines with an Epsom HD projector, surround sound system and electronic blackout blinds. The room with blinds up is also an excellent gathering room for the kids with views up to the Abbey Church. Storage is also a key feature of this room- with ample space to ensure the house is free from clutter.
Abbey suite bedroom
This room at approximately 30m2 combines sitting area with bedroom. As one awakes and activates the electronic blinds- the 11th century Norman tower of the Abbey Church rises dramatically on the hill above. The large glazed doors open onto private verandas that flow onto the orchard planted with a wide variety of fruit trees. A huge range of fitted wardrobes and elegant bathroom complete this stunning bedroom suite.
River Suite Bedroom
Similar in size to the Abbey Suite, once again this room combines a sitting area with bedroom- but it's the huge wood burner that makes winter something to look forward to! But summer is also a joy as the huge glass doors glide open to give access to this river side setting and surrounding private gardens. A walk in wardrobe offers plentiful storage but it is the bespoke Japanese bath and massive walk-in shower that complete this beautiful suite.
View payable Stamp Duty for this property
An award winning contemporary masterpiece in a most private setting in St Albans.
Hugh MaconochieProperty agent