Decorating & Design

November 12, 2012

Over-The-Top English Country Estate

According to my in-depth knowledge of period films, there is nothing like the rolling lawns and stately architecture of an English country estate. And truly, there is probably nothing like this particular English country estate. Read on to find out what makes it so unusual.

The front of the house seems pretty standard fare — reached by a long drive, painted pale yellow, surrounded by neatly trimmed bushes — until the listing reveals that it overlooks a “medieval moated island.”

Columns, double doors and a cantilevered staircase — check. The entrance is elegant without being overly fussy. There are eight bedrooms upstairs but, disappointingly, only four bathrooms.

The dining room’s generous proportions and large windows keep the hand-painted silk wall covering and stencilled flooring from veering into country house kitsch.

The photo makes this kitchen look cafeteria-sized, but thanks to accents like the red walls and inviting settee, it has unmistakable charm. And though this is a period home, there are modern conveniences like a gas Aga range and under-floor heating.

Here’s where this property does finally go over the top. Not only is there a treehouse with electricity and running water, there’s also a home theater, all-weather tennis court, stables, swimming pool and, for the traditionalists, a snooker room and croquet lawn.

I’m still ready to move in. What do you think?

Photo credits:
1-5: Strutt & Parker