Stunning ground floor flat in this wonderful Victorian mansion
This magnificent ground floor apartment occupies an unrivalled position, boasting its own private courtyard garden as well as access to beautifully maintained communal grounds.
History
Originally built as a Regency mansion in 1822, the house was acquired in 1892 by Lady Ela Russell, daughter of the Duke of Bedford, and remodelled in the Victorian style whilst retaining some original features. She developed the estate into a self-sufficient haven, complete with market gardens and various amenities. During World War II, the property served as accommodation for evacuees and army troops, with German POWs housed in Nissen huts on the grounds. Following the war, Chorleywood Council purchased the house for use as offices, before it was eventually converted into apartments in 1997.
Accommodation
The house opens into a grand, panelled reception hall with access to the communal gardens and a sweeping staircase leading to the upper floor apartments.
This particular apartment is rich in character and generously proportioned (about 2,056 sq ft excluding the cellar), uniquely benefiting from a large private cellar measuring approximately 993 sq ft. Throughout, the apartment enjoys tall ceilings and an abundance of natural light.
The elegant drawing room is a highlight - ideal for both relaxing and entertaining. It features a floor-to-ceiling display cabinet, a handsome fireplace as its focal point, and a tucked-away sitting area or library.
The double-aspect kitchen/dining room offers a range of built-in wall and base units, along with integrated Neff appliances including an electric oven and hob, dishwasher, and washing machine. There is ample room for a dining table, as well as a cosy sitting area with a door opening onto the private courtyard garden.
The principal bedroom includes a generous range of built-in wardrobes and an en suite shower room. The guest bedroom features a beautiful original fireplace with a polished marble surround and leads down stairs to an en suite bathroom with shower and separate WC.
Off the spacious entrance hall is a third family bathroom, and a few steps up from the hallway lead to a third bedroom, currently used as a study complete with bespoke fitted cabinetry and a built-in desk.
Stone stairs descend to the extensive basement level, comprising several rooms - a versatile space which could be used as a gym, cinema, darkroom, or studio.
Outside
This apartment enjoys its own private courtyard garden, a secluded sun trap with a gate providing direct access to the communal grounds. The landscaped gardens are a true feature offering a mix of mature trees and shrubs including rhododendrons, copper beech, and oak. A wide lawn is surrounded by an attractive arched walkway and enclosed by hedging.
To one side of the house lies a peaceful sunken garden and at the front, there is reserved parking for three vehicles.
View payable Stamp Duty for this property
This fabulous apartment combines great space and quite unique with an impressive cellar - great for a variety of uses and the stunning grounds that open out into the nature reserve.
Sue TrybusProperty agent