Reclaiming the Past

The innovations of the latter 20th century and significantly the last twenty years create a dilemma when a period property still has its attractions. How to integrate modern living within a period home.  Creature comforts at the touch of a switch, face recognition or voice commands need to balance the atmosphere only a period home exudes. 

Architects in tune with restoration projects will embrace the eco sustainability of combining the traditional with up to date technology, assuming all relevant listing and planning issues comply.  There is a fine balance with retaining the integrity of a period property with the integration of 21st century living. 

Covid -19 enforced a massive exodus of a younger generation from the cities where lives are dictated by technology. It is this generation that look to enjoy the rural environment and period properties but not at the expense of forgoing the “fast connected” world they know.  So, logical answers must be found to integrate technology, open plan living into old properties to ensure they survive for future generations. A balance as the world evolves is achievable if compromises are accepted. 

Waking up to birdsong rather than traffic noise has to be a price worth paying at the expense of instant social media and take away meals delivered to the door. Rural life is not for everyone but those wishing to embrace it must do so fully to appreciate the true values it offers.

Three stunning Devon properties that have been reinvented to match and exceed the high specifications of 21st century living: 

Greenawell, Moretonhampstead. A restoration of a Dartmoor farmhouse to create a family estate with principal 5 bedroom stone house and four cottages. Nestling in 76 acres of farmland Greenawell comes with a stunning indoor swimming pool, gym/office, cinema room, tennis court and formal landscaped gardens. An example of bringing a tired property seamlessly into the 21st century without losing the integrity of its setting and ambience. Strutt and Parker (01392 215631)

Higher Coombe, Lustleigh. Rebuilt following a fire this impressive stone house overlooks its own 72  acre valley. A mix of traditional and modern interior with impressive Drawing Room, Kitchen/Dining room and 4 bedrooms and bathrooms -Two 2 bedroom thatched cottages, artist’s studio, swimming pool, tennis court, barns, ponds – a rural idyll on the edge of a favoured Dartmoor village. Knight Frank (01392 423111)

Worden House, Dartmouth. The ultimate, luxuriously appointed family home enjoying total seclusion yet a short drive to Dartmouth.  Transforming a working farm where cider making is replaced by an olive grove. A Tardis house with 6 bedrooms, large reception areas, kitchens, cinema room, guest cottage, party barn, indoor and outdoor pools with spa, tennis court – The Party House in South Devon. Savills (01548 800462)


So, three beautiful country houses that, with empathy, have been transformed. I see many much smaller properties that have been remodelled for modern living. Life itself evolves and whilst our heritage should be preserved we all crave the creature comforts to which we have become accustomed - secure at home - It’s all about coming home.      

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The Royal Connection

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The Rural Life of Devon