A beautifully refurbished and substantially extended private residence, set in about 0.73 acres with a private rear boundary adjoining Roydon Woods Nature Reserve, within the New Forest.
An exceptional opportunity to acquire one of Sandy Down’s finest private residences. Forest Lea is a beautifully refurbished and substantially extended detached home, occupying a magnificent private plot of about 0.73 acres with a private rear boundary adjoining Roydon Woods Nature Reserve, within the New Forest National Park. Offered to the market for the first time following an extensive programme of remodelling, enlargement and landscaping, Forest Lea extends to over 3,100 sq. ft. and has been meticulously renovated to an exacting standard throughout. The result is a remarkable home that effortlessly combines timeless character with contemporary design, creating beautifully balanced accommodation designed for modern living. On entering the welcoming reception hall, the exceptional craftsmanship is immediately evident. Herringbone wood flooring flows through the principal living spaces, while a double-sided wood-burning stove creates an impressive focal point, bringing warmth and atmosphere to both the reception hall and adjoining drawing room. Beyond, the triple-aspect drawing room is bathed in natural light, with exposed timber beams, a feature fireplace and French doors opening on to the landscaped gardens. Occupying the entire rear elevation, the magnificent open plan kitchen/dining room forms the heart of Forest Lea. This exceptional space enjoys uninterrupted views across the landscaped gardens, neighbouring wildlife protected land and the ancient woodland of Roydon Woods beyond. The bespoke kitchen is beautifully appointed with premium quartz work surfaces, a range of cabinetry and a substantial central island. A generous pantry, coffee station, bar area and impressive range cooker further enhance the space, while a large roof lantern, full-height picture windows and panoramic sliding doors flood the room with natural light and create a seamless connection with the entertaining terrace. A practical rear lobby and boot room provide direct access to the gardens and lead through to a beautifully fitted utility room. Completing the ground floor are a generous media room, drawing room and cloakroom. The first floor is thoughtfully arranged around a long, light-filled landing enjoying attractive views across the front gardens and sweeping driveway, and offers two exceptional bedroom suites together with two further generous double bedrooms and a beautifully appointed family bathroom. Occupying a private position at one end of the house, the magnificent principal suite provides an elegant sanctuary. A bespoke walk-through dressing area with fitted storage leads to a beautifully appointed en suite bathroom featuring a walk-in shower. The bedroom itself enjoys a triple aspect, with full-height rear glazing framing breath-taking views. A superb guest suite also enjoys peaceful rear-facing woodland views and benefits from its own dressing area together with a stylish en suite shower room. The remaining two double bedrooms are served by a family bathroom, thoughtfully designed around a centrally positioned freestanding bath and a walk-in shower, creating a luxurious and contemporary space. Overall, Forest Lea represents a rare opportunity to acquire an exceptional private residence in an unrivalled woodland setting in one of the New Forest’s most desirable locations.
Forest Lea is approached through a five-bar gate on to an elegant sweeping gravel driveway leading to the attached garage and principal entrance. Set well back from the lane in about 0.73 acres, the property enjoys complete privacy, framed by mature trees and established planting that provide natural screening throughout the seasons. The gardens have been thoughtfully redesigned to create a succession of beautifully defined outdoor spaces, each carefully orientated to follow the sun and designed for both quiet enjoyment and entertaining on any scale. An automated irrigation system and discreet lighting ensure the gardens remain as beautiful and functional after dusk as they are throughout the day. Adjoining the house, a generous sun terrace provides the perfect setting for morning coffee and al fresco dining. Beyond, an entertaining terrace centres around an outdoor kitchen incorporating an wood-fired pizza oven, built-in barbecue grill, refrigeration and generous preparation space. A secluded firepit terrace provides an atmospheric setting for long evenings. Broad areas of lawn gently descend through the gardens, interspersed with mature ornamental trees and carefully considered planting. A beautifully established kitchen garden and greenhouse provide the opportunity to cultivate fruit, vegetables and cut flowers. A beautifully crafted garden studio provides an exceptional and highly versatile space benefitting from high-speed internet connectivity.
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Such a wonderful location, Sandy Down is highly favoured and boasts some of the finest family houses in the area.
Steven MooreProperty agent