Sandy Lane, Woodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 4DJ | Property for sale | Savills
2,704 sq ft(251.21 sq m)
Guide price £1,350,000(€1,539,285)

Sandy LaneWoodbridge, Suffolk, IP12 4DJ

  • Sold

Key features

  • Sold in July 2023
  • Critically acclaimed architect
  • Wonderfully proportioned, light-filled accommodation
  • Stunning gardens and terrace
  • About 0.64 acres of land

Exceptional mid-century dwelling by John Penn.

About this property

  • Garden Hill is a sophisticated modernist property by acclaimed architect, John Penn , with an outstanding, south-facing garden.

    John Penn was a prominent 20th century architect, who worked and trained under the renowned Austro-American architect, Richard Neutra, in California. He is particularly well known for his nine "temple-form" properties throughout Suffolk.

    Garden Hill, built between 1963 and 1964, is an early example of the style, which Pevsner notes is characteristed by white brick, vertical cedar cladding and centrally located services.

    The single-storey structure is built in two wings, with the principal accommodation occupying the south wing, and the garage and guest suite occupying the north.

    The central entrance hall was originally an exposed covered space but was enclosed by previous owner, Lady Spence, widow of Sir Basil, the Scottish architect most remembered for Coventry Cathedral.

    The accommodation flows exceptionally well, comprising generously proportioned, light-filled reception rooms and bedrooms. Horizontal windows at the top of each wall allow natural light to fill each room.

    An inner reception hall flows through to the elegantly proportioned, triple aspect sitting room, with a contemporary wood-burning stove, and south-facing sliding doors - a feature repeated in the dining room and principal bedroom - out to the terrace and garden.

    Steps lead up to the elevated garden room, an addition by our clients to create a further reception space and to showcase the exceptional views over Porters Wood and the garden. The original tiled floor is replicated and the cedar ceiling, which feature throughout the building, is here vaulted. French windows lead out to a balcony.

    The kitchen is a marvel of efficient design and includes integrated Neff induction hob, oven, refrigerator and dishwasher. Double doors provide access to the reception hall and dining room.

    Completing the south wing are two bedrooms, which share a jack-and-jill en suite, and a further shower room. The principal bedroom, like the sitting room and dining room, has sliding doors out to the garden, and a dressing room.

    The guest suite also has an adjoining shower room and sliding doors out to a private courtyard. The utility, adjacent to the guest room could be repurposed as a kitchen to create a self-contained annexe.

    Garden Hill sits within about two-thirds of an acre and has spectacular, south facing gardens, with an array of flowers, shrubs and trees - including a wonderful tree of heaven .

    Immediately to the rear of the property is a generous terrace, ideal for al fresco dining, and a pergola inspired by Japanese design. Beyond the terrace is a gravel garden with Mediterranean plants.

    To the front of the house is a drive providing ample parking.

    View payable Stamp Duty for this property

Garden Hill, by acclaimed architect John Penn, is one of the most sophisticated properties I have seen: bringing Californian mid-century cool to historic Woodbridge.

Alexander McNabProperty agent

Local information

  • Garden Hill occupies a wonderful position, in the particularly sought after Broomheaath area on the edge of Woodbridge.
  • Woodbridge is a thriving and highly regarded market town situated on the River Deben, with an incredible variety of amenities, including independent shops, cafés, public houses and restaurants. There is a wonderful array of historic architecture, idyllic river walks and a rare working tide mill, which traces its roots to the 11th century. Trains to London Liverpool Street, via Ipswich, from 92 minutes.
  • Sutton Hoo (3.7 miles) is home to Britain's most important archaeological site, the Anglo Saxon burial ground of King Rædwald, the most powerful leader in seventh century England.
  • Ipswich (8.8 miles) is the county town of Suffolk and provides a wide selection of independent and high street shops; and a variety of theatres, galleries, and museums. A mainline railway station offers direct trains to London Liverpool Street from 68 minutes.
  • The stunning Suffolk coast comprises delightful seaside towns and pretty villages. Aldeburgh (19 miles), the popular coastal town closely associated with Benjamin Britten, is famed for its fish and chips and iconic 'Scallop' sculpture by Maggi Hambling. The neighbouring village of Thorpeness has a charming boating lake and country club. Orford (12.6 miles) has an enchanting 12th century castle and is home to the award winning Pump Street Bakery.
  • Sporting facilities are fantastic: Woodbridge has superb sailing and rowing clubs as well as popular rugby, tennis and golf clubs. Deben Leisure Centre has a 25 metre pool and gym. Further afield, there are golf and sailing clubs at Aldeburgh and Thorpeness, and clay pigeon shooting at Darsham.
  • Schools in the area are excellent. St Mary's, Woodbridge Primary and Farlingaye are all popular state schools; renowned local independent schools include Woodbridge School, Framlingham College and Ipswich school.
  • All times and distances are approximate.

Additional information

  • Services: mains electricity, water; private drainage; oil-fired central heating.
  • Local Authority: East Suffolk District Council; Band F
  • EPC Rating: F
  • Tenure: Freehold
  • Council Tax Band: F