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A Georgian farmhouse in a peaceful setting, a glorious lifestyle opportunity
Hawthorn House is the classic Norfolk Georgian farmhouse. Set at the end of a tree lined drive, in a wonderfully unspoilt part of Norfolk, completely peaceful and private, this is an exceptional lifestyle opportunity. Whether it be the charming farmhouse, the exceptional barn that will fulfil a multitude of imaginations or the 7.5 acres of gardens and meadow, the property is equally adept at absorbing family life as it is manageable for a couple. It strikes that rare balance.
The house sits well, with the Georgian façade in full view upon arrival. The current custodians commissioned a modern addition designed by Hudson Architects, which gives the house the appealing mix of old and new. The same can be said for the internal layout. In the original part of the house you have the conventional and formal layout of the elegant drawing room, spacious dining room, and snug, with period detail including fireplaces, fitted bookshelves, and sash windows. A later conversion of adjoining outbuildings provided the house with a superb open plan kitchen/breakfast/garden room, with underfloor heating, vaulted ceilings, large central island unit, Aga and pantry. It is a brilliant focal point for everyday living. The most recent addition is a triumph of a living room, with sliding glazed doors along the entire length of the southern elevation, and cleverly set roof lantern adding further natural light to the room, whilst complete with wildflower roof. It is a relaxing space that adds another dimension to the ground floor living. Further rooms include a comfortable and spacious sitting room with wood burner, a study, reading area and essential utility.
The bedrooms are defined into two areas. The original part of the house hosts the principal bedroom, with en suite bathroom, with a further three double bedrooms and family bathroom. A second staircase at the other end of the house leads up to two more double bedrooms, with high ceilings and a bathroom. This area of the house could become a self-contained annexe or wing with minor adaptation.
The Barn
With a direct link from the house via the study, the barn is an amazing space that provides so much scope for the next custodian. Measuring 17.3m x 6.2m, and double height with vaulted ceilings, it is a significant space with two large floor to ceiling openings with wooden panelled doors to the outside. The barn has been fitted with heating units, with an insulated roof amongst the charming old beams. So much springs to mind, whether it be conversion to accommodation, an art studio, indoor swimming pool, games area or indeed a combination of things given the space it provides. It is a brilliant asset.
Gardens and Grounds
With the initial approach up the tree lined drive, sweeping up to the house and parking area, you are immediately aware of the privacy the house enjoys. Set well back from a country lane, and with neighbouring farmland, there is also a glorious peacefulness.
To the south of the house are avenues of beech hedging, deep herbaceous beds full of Tulips, euphorbia and sedums, Irish Yew and Magnolia, with gravelled areas and a sheltered paved terrace open to the south, creating a sun trap perfect for outside dining and entertaining. Expanses of lawn sweep around the house, whilst to one side is a garden enclosed by beech hedging creating the feel of a naturally walled garden. Within this area is an orchard and productive kitchen garden, with fruit cages, chicken run, raised beds and green house. An extensive meadow to the north of the house, dotted with mature trees and with a shelter belt of woodland around the boundary, can either be used as grazing, or left wild with cut paths in-between creating lovely walks. A gravelled area, with low brick wall and steps up to the lawn, creates a further outside seating area directly adjoining the garden room, enjoying morning and evening sun.
A post and railed paddock is to the south of the formal gardens, with established grazing. Beyond this is a wildlife pond concealed within woodland.
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I love a mix of old and new architecture, so the Anthony Hudson designed garden room against the Georgian facade really appealed.
Ben RivettProperty agent