luxury architect house for sale Dorset, United Kingdom

This extraordinary home forms part of a sensitively restored and architecturally significant Grade II Listed former convent, where period grandeur has been seamlessly blended with refined contemporary living.The ground floor is introduced via a tiled foyer and hardwood-floored vestibule, where original ecclesiastical statuary immediately establishes the building’s historic character. The principal living space is truly breathtaking—an exceptional open-plan reception beneath a soaring vaulted chapel ceiling, framed by original stone arches, carved figureheads, and a striking stained glass window that floods the space with natural light.A bespoke, high-specification kitchen with dual sinks and a sociable layout overlooks the expansive lounge and dining area, where a contemporary wood burner set upon the original altar stone forms a dramatic and atmospheric focal point for both entertaining and family life.Full-width glazed doors open on either side to a beautifully enclosed brick-walled garden, complete with lawn, mature planting, an external water point, and a covered veranda—allowing for year-round enjoyment and seamless indoor-outdoor living. Adjacent, a superbly appointed utility room offers extensive integrated storage, a deep sink, dedicated space for both a washing machine and tumble dryer, a secondary freezer, and a drying cupboard, all finished with precision and understated design.The ground floor further provides three generously proportioned double bedrooms, each individually styled with meticulous attention to detail and extensive fitted storage. All benefit from elegant en-suite facilities, incorporating non-slip flooring, integrated shower seating, and carefully considered accessibility features. One en-suite is particularly notable, combining both bath and separate shower within a beautifully balanced design.Additional conveniences include a well-positioned cloakroom, discreet storage solutions, and a concealed under-stairs walk-in cupboard. A remarkable architectural feature is the original bell tower, accessed via a stone spiral staircase with lighting, culminating in the preserved chapel bell.On the lower level, the former Nuns’ Reading Room provides a serene and atmospheric retreat. Overlooking the formal cloister gardens through four sets of glazed doors, this versatile space lends itself perfectly to use as a library, cinema room, playroom, or private sitting room.The first floor introduces a further layer of architectural drama, accessed via a staircase or a discreetly concealed lift with a mirrored interior and dual handrails. The principal suite is an exceptional private sanctuary, comprising a double bedroom, dressing room, en-suite bathroom, and mezzanine lounge/office. Glazed openings reveal the original fabric of the chapel, while a preserved stained glass window forms a captivating focal point. The mezzanine overlooks the principal reception space below, enhancing the home’s extraordinary sense of volume, light, and scale.The dressing room is fitted with bespoke storage and integrated vanity space. The en-suite continues the theme of refined luxury, showcasing original stonework and stained glass alongside concealed laundry appliances for complete convenience.Throughout, the property demonstrates an uncompromising commitment to comfort and accessibility, with integrated USB charging points, comfort-height sanitaryware, mid-wall and floor-level power outlets, single-lever fittings, and discreet LED lighting seamlessly incorporated within the architecture.Externally, the property is approached via a gently ramped pathway framed by soft planting and low hedging, leading to a sheltered entrance porch. A detached double garage provides twin doors, pedestrian access, and internal log storage. Beyond the private gardens, residents enjoy access to approximately 70 acres of meticulously maintained communal grounds, including formal gardens, a lake, and mature woodland—offering an exceptional sense of space, seclusion, and natural beauty within this highly exclusive Grade II Listed estate.

An architecturally designed, award-winning characterful home, situated on grounds of approximately 1 acre, enjoying stunning countryside views.This SUPERB CHARACTER HOME sits in grounds of approximately 1 ACRE enjoying STUNNING COUNTRYSIDE VIEWS yet in close proximity of the seaside town of BOURNEMOUTH and the many amenities available. This SPACIOUS and BEAUTIFULLY PRESENTED RESIDENCE provides an amazing WORK/LIFE environment including FOUR BEDROOMS, NUMEROUS RECEPTION ROOMS, HOME OFFICE AND GYM as well as DELIGHTFUL GARDEN ROOM all within a SECURE GATED SETTING.The property offers overall floorspace in excess of 3,500 sq.ft providing spacious and versatile family living. Accommodation is arranged over three floor levels and includes a number of reception rooms. The main entrance porch leads to the welcoming foyer and through access to the living room laid with aged limestone flooring and a woodburner set within an exposed brick fire surround, whilst the adjoining garden room enjoys delightful views of the grounds and River Stour meadows.The kitchen is well equipped with a range of wooden base and wall units complemented by a full range of integrated appliances. The dual aspect dining hall has a vaulted ceiling and views to both front and rear. The spacious lounge accommodates a feature logburner and glazed doors opening to the grounds. Laid throughout with quality wooden flooring, a lovely entertaining space for family and friends.A well proportioned double bedroom with adjoining ensuite bathroom is located at this level as well as a separate cloakroom. There are three further double bedrooms – the master suite including a stylishly appointed ensuite, a generous array of built-in storage and a balcony overlooking the grounds and delightful open views beyond.A notable feature is the large outhouse situated at the front of the property which has been re-modelled to create a superb triple office suite, including a gym, sauna, kitchenette and WC also offering great potential as additional accommodation, holiday let or Air BNB.Outside the electronically gated access leads through to the driveway with ample parking, a detached double garage, double carport and courtyard. The well maintained garden, with a number of strategically placed patio areas for garden furniture, backs on to river meadows. The grounds are fully fenced with gated access from the driveway and a charming breeze house nestles discreetly in an elevated position – ideal for quiet repose in this tranquil setting!Services: Mains Electric, Gas and Mains Drainage Council Tax Band: G EPC: Band DCavity wall insulation recently installed with 25 year guarantee.Location: Throop Road is well placed for easy access to both local amenities and main transport links to the wider area with the A31/M27 linking with the M3 to London. The Bournemouth/Poole conurbation provides a wealth of retail outlets and entertainment centres, along with superb watersport facilities and the delights of Poole Harbour with its picturesque surroundings.A good variety of well regarded state and public schools are available throughout the area, together with Bournemouth University nearby. The stunning south coast with its award winning beaches and World Heritage Jurassic coastline sit to the south, whilst inland the rolling Dorset hills and areas of outstanding natural beauty of Cranborne Chase leading onward to the Cathedral town of Salisbury are just a short drive away.Poole and Bournemouth train stations offer a regular main line train service to London (Waterloo). Bournemouth and Southampton airports both offer flights to a range of domestic and foreign destinations. Cross channel ferries sail from Poole and Portsmouth.

Hillside Farm is a truly unique New Forest retreat, inspired by Japanese haiku principles and featured on Grand Designs. The property blends striking architecture with the nature of The New Forest, set in over 50 acres to include a vineyard, orchard, and accompanying fields.Internally The design concept embraces the idea of a small cluster of buildings huddled on a hillside, creating a composition that harmonises with the surrounding New Forest landscape. The final design comprises three connected structures: a spacious ‘barn' living area, a smaller ‘stable' bedroom wing, and a 3-storey ‘silo' housing support spaces. These are linked seamlessly with fully enclosed glass bridges, providing transparency, connectivity, and dramatic views of the landscape.Featured on Grand Designs, Hillside Farm exemplifies an approach to modern, site-responsive homes in the New Forest. It demonstrates how contemporary architecture can respect the natural environment while providing innovative, light-filled, and functional spaces for modern living.The open plan kitchen/living area offers far reaching views across the estate and is flooded with natural light. There is a range of base level units, electric aga, and a central island with breakfast bar. The principal suite is situated to the rear, with a well-proportioned bedroom and fully appointed bathroom. On the other side of the property is a three-storey tower, comprises basement shower/utility room, ground level bedroom/office and first floor study – with views across the surrounding grounds.Externally Hillside Farm is set in ground spanning over 50 acres, offering complete privacy and tranquillity. It was imperative for the vendors during the inception of Hillside Farm to have organic land throughout, never touched with a chemical. Architecturally striking, Hillside Farm was built in 2004 and inspired by the Japanese ‘haiku' style, ensuring simplicity to connect you with nature. It reached National publicity when featured on an episode of ‘Grand Designs'.A long sweeping driveway leads to the front gate, entrancing the estate. There are two fully equipped large garages at the end of the drive, both of good size. One has an electric vehicle charging point, a range of base level units with worktop and sink, and both have electric doors. The wine store is situated on the rear, ideal for storing the wine produced at the property's very own vineyard. The fully equipped garages could be utilised for entertaining or additional accommodation, subject to appropriate permissions. A cabin sits not far from the main house, which could offer further accommodation for a family if required. It features two bedrooms, a family bathroom, kitchen/living room and accompanying decked terrace. A further garage is situated on the grounds, offering plenty of storage throughout.Multiple alfresco dining spaces are positioned throughout the grounds, from areas of patio to an impressive wooden covered seating area, access via a decked walkway, with panoramic 360-degree views of the estate and further beyond tree line. The Japanese inspiration for the house, filters into the landscaped gardens surrounding the home, with tranquil water elements and winding walkways. The 50+ acres are broken down into three expansive fields and the main gardens, including the properties very own vineyard and orchard. The vineyard, seamlessly woven into the estate, presents an opportunity for a boutique winemaking venture, or simply to entertain guests, elevating the lifestyle offering of this exceptional New Forest Retreat.Location Hillside Farm is set in a private but accessible location, surrounded by woodland on the Western periphery of the New Forest National Park.Situated on the outskirts of the village of Bransgore, with its local amenities, array of New Forest Pubs and Primary School. The location provides a brilliant balance between coastal and country living, with Avon beach just over 7 miles away. On the doorstep is open forest which is ideal for walks and cycling. Both Christchurch and Ringwood town centre are approximately seven miles distant, both market towns are enriched with local history and offer an array of amenities. Hinton Admiral train station provides a mainline commute to London and Bournemouth Airport offers a range of international options.Tenure: Freehold EPC Rating: E Council Tax Band: GServices: Mains water and electricity Drainage: Septic Tank to the cabin and sewerage treatment plant for the main house Solar array supplying electric and hot water. Bottled gas for the hob

Vendors insight into the beautiful Old Rectory Farm, Lympsham – Timeless Living in a Village HavenOld Rectory Farm has been a truly special home for us, a striking Jacobean farmhouse dating back to 1715, full of history and character, from the dramatic bell tower and battlements to the beautifully crafted interiors designed by Stephenson’s Architects. We’ve loved the bespoke open-plan kitchen with its Aga, the elegant spaces that have hosted so many celebrations, and the wonderful period features, including the hand-carved doors and the former cider room that nods to the house’s past. The gardens have been our sanctuary, blending the feel of a classic English garden at the front with a more Mediterranean style at the rear, all with open countryside views. Tucked privately within a thriving village, it has offered us both peace and a strong sense of community. This is a home filled with warmth, memories and charm.Step through the elegant tower entrance of Old Rectory Farm, and you’re instantly transported into a world where history, character, and modern family life exist in perfect harmony. Dating back to 1715, with a striking 1866 Victorian Gothic extension, this is a home where every corner tells a story, yet every space is designed for contemporary living.Picture mornings in the farmhouse kitchen, sunlight spilling over granite countertops and the warming glow of the Aga, while the family gathers around the breakfast table before stepping outside into the gardens. Flow effortlessly between the dual-aspect drawing room and second sitting room, whether you’re hosting friends, enjoying a quiet evening by the fireplace, or retreating with a book in the study.Upstairs, the light-filled landing with tower room opens to five generous bedrooms, each offering a private sanctuary. The master suite, with its walk-in wardrobe and modern en-suite, is a personal retreat, while a guest suite with its own en-suite ensures visitors feel at home. For fitness, focus, or fun, the former chapel-turned-meditation space offers endless possibilities.Outside, the grounds are nothing short of magical. Expansive lawns, mature specimen trees, and flowering borders surround the house, while a walled Mediterranean terrace offers the perfect spot for long summer lunches or evening drinks under the stars. A peaceful courtyard, private corners, and a charming outbuilding create the ideal setting for hobbies, gardening, or simply enjoying the serenity of village life.Nestled in the heart of Lympsham, you are close to the village shop, post office, sports clubs, and schools, yet the countryside stretches endlessly beyond. Cycle paths, coastal days out, and the Mendip Hills are all on your doorstep. Easy access to the M5, Bristol Airport, and nearby train stations means city life or commuting is never far away.Old Rectory Farm is more than a house - it’s a lifestyle. Whether raising a family, working from home, entertaining friends, or retreating to tranquillity, here is a home that adapts to your life, offering space, history, and a sense of belonging that is truly rare.

Nestled in the heart of Whitwell, a charming and community-oriented village on the south of the Isle of Wight, Strathwell House is an architectural gem discreetly positioned within a secluded half-acre plot. Completed in August 2022, this stunning home was designed by acclaimed RIBA award-winning architect Lincoln Miles, known for his appearances on Channel 4’s Grand Designs. In collaboration with the current owners and local builder Richard Dowers, the property reflects a bespoke vision that blends contemporary open-plan living with a wonderful connection to the open fields that sit beyond the home. From the moment you arrive, the property impresses with its understated cedar-clad exterior, which conceals approximately 3,000 sq. ft. of meticulously designed living space. A private gated entrance opens onto a gravel driveway, offering ample parking and access to the detached double garage, complete with power, and an electric door. The thoughtful design fully embraces the plot’s gently sloping topography, resulting in a unique layout that maximizes natural light and sweeping countryside views. Inside, luxury and practicality unite in perfect harmony. The spacious open-plan living and dining area flows seamlessly into a high-specification kitchen featuring top-brand appliances, including Neff double ovens, a microwave, and a coffee machine. A built-in Airforce induction hob with an integrated rising extractor and high-end finishes ensures this kitchen is as functional as it is stylish. Adjacent to the kitchen is a useful utility room, with a large plant room and separate cloakroom. Floor-to-ceiling sliding doors from the spacious dining area open onto a paved terrace, with a heated infinity pool at its center—a true highlight for entertaining or simply enjoying on peaceful summer days. The property offers three beautifully appointed bedroom suites, each with its own character and purpose. Two ground-floor guest bedrooms feature en-suite shower rooms and access to private courtyards, ensuring privacy and comfort for visitors. The principal suite, elevated at the rear of the home, includes a luxurious en-suite bathroom, a large dressing room, and a stunning wall of windows that create a floating-in-the-trees effect, making it the perfect retreat to unwind and take in the local wildlife. The lower ground floor is a versatile space with its own entrance and shower room, making it ideal for use as a self-contained annex, home office, or additional living area. Currently fitted with a bar area, for entertaining and use as a games room, this area has been cleverly designed to allow for easy conversion into separate accommodation if desired. Throughout the property, underfloor heating powered by an air-source heat pump ensures comfort, while discreet internal blinds, LED lighting, and thoughtfully positioned external power sockets enhance convenience and style. The outdoor space is equally impressive. The terraced rear garden offers a peaceful escape, bordered by a neighboring equestrian paddock and a brook. A beautifully landscaped path leads down through lawned areas, vegetable beds, and a polytunnel to a serene nature pool that integrates with the surrounding environment. The attenuation pond adds a functional and ecological benefit in its design, located at the rear of the plot.  WHAT THE OWNER SAYS: Strathwell House has enabled us to enjoy being in the heart of Whitwell village’s vibrant community whilst nestled in a quiet rural plot that affords far reaching views of the surrounding downs. It has been a great home that was designed to be sociable and in which to host and entertain our family and friends. Our historic village pub The White Horse Inn, is a couple of minutes’ walk away and is popular with visitors and locals alike. It has been a great place to make new friends and to socialise. The neighbouring village of Niton has all the facilities we need day to day and is but a two-minute drive from Whitwell or an easy 20-minute walk away. Ventnor is our nearest town and has some great restaurants and pubs offering a wide range of cuisines. The town also offers a variety of locally owned independent shops that we love to support. The footpaths and bridleways that criss-cross the village enable us to access the nearby cliff paths and to walk up to the surrounding downland where we enjoy spectacular island wide views when walking our friendly dog.Being close to the island’s southern Jurassic coastline stretching from Sandown to Freshwater means that living in Whitwell we enjoy easy access to some fantastic beaches. Living on an island that has a tourism focus means that we and our visitors have a host of exciting and interesting activities to enjoy.

Built in 1991, the property captures the timeless charm of Georgian architecture while offering all the comforts of contemporary living, with beautifully balanced proportions, high ceilings, sash-style double-glazed windows, and graceful symmetry throughout.Set within approximately one acre of enchanting gardens and paddock, the property enjoys unrivalled views across the surrounding countryside, stretching towards the iconic Dunkery Beacon the highest point on Exmoor. Upon entering, you’re welcomed into an inviting entrance porch, which flows into an impressive central dining hall undoubtedly the heart of the home complete with a grand stone fireplace and a sweeping staircase. The stunning, triple-aspect drawing room is light-filled and serene, featuring a handsome stone fireplace with an open fire, a square bay window, and French doors that open directly onto the patio, offering seamless indoor-outdoor living.The thoughtfully designed, dual-aspect kitchen is ideal for both keen cooks and relaxed family life, featuring extensive cabinetry, generous work surfaces, an electric AGA, a gas hob, and an eye-level double oven. This space opens to a cosy yet spacious family room, perfect for informal dining or lounging, enhanced by French doors to the terrace and a fireplace inset with a wood-burning stove. A large utility/boot room, fitted with additional storage units, provides access to the rear of the property and to one of two ground-floor W.C.s. Additional storage is found off the hallway.SELLER INSIGHTWootton Courtney is a truly beautiful, historic, village within spectacular countryside on the edge of Exmoor National Park and this fabulous location is the setting for this impressive, spacious, family home designed by the father of its present owners.Having acquired this desirable parcel of land and working very closely with a renowned architect, the house reflects the very best of a Georgian style family dwelling. With its high ceilings, large windows, cornices, original period wooden doors all reflecting the meticulous attention to detail specified in its design. However, this enchanting property, apart from being flooded with natural daylight, is full of modern day innovations and comforts. The house has an abundance of space from stepping into its large welcoming dining hall and throughout the house. Its clever design offers many options on its use with areas for individuality but with an overall sociable connectivity, whilst the large kitchen is perfect for family living and for relaxed entertaining. It is such an amazing home for large gatherings of friends and family however formal or informal, and Christmas, when the family are here and the house is adorned, has always been a very special occasion.As much care and attention has been given to the large garden as to the house. It is quiet and private with mature shrubs and trees and, of course, very much a space in which to relax after busy days and enjoy the variety of visiting wildlife.This beautiful village within such an awe inspiring landscape has a strong sense of community and has most things available for everyday life. In addition, it has a highly active village hall in which many events take place to suit a host of interests. Apart from the well stocked village shop. Schools, whether state or independent are within easy reach, as are sport and leisure opportunities. Minehead is very close, and the county town of Taunton is within easy reach, alongside access to beautiful local beaches.This has been a much loved family home which has been meticulously cared for throughout its years and it is now time for its new owners to experience the joy of living in such a special home in such an amazing location. ** These comments are the personal views of the current owner and are included as an insight into life at the property. They have not been independently verified, should not be relied on without verification and do not necessarily reflect the views of the agent.The first floor continues to impress, with four/five large bedrooms arranged to maximise the surrounding views. The principal bedroom enjoys its own en-suite and a versatile dressing room or study, while a second en-suite and a stylish family bathroom serve the remaining rooms. Each bedroom benefits from expansive windows that frame breathtaking rural vistas, ensuring peace, privacy, and a constant connection to the countryside beyond. A second utility room with window to the rear aspect, airing cupboard and further double linen storage cupboard.This is a truly exceptional home, combining space, character, and a glorious rural setting—all within the Exmoor National Park and with nearby local amenities.GardensA sweeping tarmac driveway sets the tone as you approach Morton House, leading to a generous gravelled parking and turning area. The property is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens, thoughtfully designed to provide both privacy and spectacular views towards Dunkery Beacon and the rolling hills of Exmoor. Predominantly laid to lawn and enhanced by mature planting, the gardens include a spacious patio that adjoins both the family room and drawing room—perfect for entertaining or enjoying peaceful moments in a truly idyllic setting.Beyond the main garden the property includes a well maintained paddock of approximately 0.3 acre.Services and Utilities Mains water, drainage and electricity.We encourage you to check before viewing a property the potential broadband speeds and mobile signal coverage. You can do so by visiting https://checker.ofcom.org.uk

A statement glass staircase and spacious entrance hall immediately set the tone for this beautifully designed contemporary home, where light, scale, and quality flow seamlessly throughout.The ground floor offers exceptional flexibility for modern living and entertaining. A dedicated cinema and leisure room previously utilised as a gym incorporates a sauna and shower room and benefits from double-aspect patio doors opening to both the rear garden and a private enclosed terrace. This terrace features a wooden hot tub and a sheltered area with excellent potential to create an outdoor bar, ideal for summer dining, barbecues, and social gatherings.The heart of the home is the impressive open-plan kitchen and dining space, fitted with top-of-the-range integrated appliances including induction hob, wine coolers and ovens. Bi-fold doors open directly onto the garden, while additional doors lead through to a stunning sun room framed by feature glazing and centred around a contemporary fireplace a wonderful space for year-round enjoyment.A separate formal living room with fireplace provides a more intimate retreat, complemented by a well-appointed utility room and ground floor WC. The property also benefits from advanced electrical and sound systems throughout, alongside energy-efficient underfloor heating.Upstairs, four generous double bedrooms each enjoy their own en-suite facilities. One suite features a beautiful roll-top copper bath, while the principal bedroom offers a luxurious double walk-in shower, a large walk-in wardrobe and a Juliette balcony overlooking open fields and countryside beyond.Sunnybank sits behind private electric gates, providing excellent privacy and security. The sweeping driveway leads to a substantial car port with additional secure lockable storage.The grounds extend to approximately six acres, offering a rare opportunity for lifestyle buyers seeking space, privacy and versatility whether for recreation, equestrian use or future landscaping opportunities.A newly renovated one-bedroom detached annexe with its own access and parking provides ideal accommodation for guests, extended family, staff or potential income generation.Multiple outdoor entertaining areas surround the main house, creating seamless indoor-outdoor flow for hosting, relaxation and family living.What3Words location: ///gates.sunset.fieldsVendor Interview:This magnificent, spacious and welcoming, home sits within its own generous parcel of land in the delightful, caring, village of St Brides, set on the Severn Estuary and ideally positioned within easy reach of Newport and Cardiff. Once a dairy farm, the transformation of the original dwelling into this wonderful family home is the result of the vision and determination of its owners. Ian and Jan, and it has been their much treasured home for the past thirty five years.“With five young children, our original brief was both ambitious and exacting. Working closely with our architect, our aim was to design a home that balanced generous shared spaces with areas for privacy, relaxation and individuality. Over the years our house has been continually upgraded, tweaked, extended and enhanced to meet the changing needs of family life.”“Among the many of the significant improvements we have completed, was the replacement and enlargement of the original conservatory, resulting in a spacious and comfortable family room. This has become the heart of our home, particularly for large gatherings of friends and family. Plus, it has taken on even greater importance in recent years since the arrival of grandchildren as our family numbers have increased. The kitchen has always been a priority and is designed as a truly sociable space. When the doors are thrown open, it offers a superb indoor/outdoor living experience, perfect for entertaining and everyday family life.”“Further thoughtful innovations included the demolition of old stables to create a much-loved cinema room along with a master bedroom suite, complete with dressing room. An independent living space was also created, providing flexibility for extended family members.”“The external spaces have also received  much attention. The grounds offer extensive open areas which have hosted countless celebrations over the years. One particular, delightful, event was a wedding reception for one our children when a large marquee was adjoined to the rear of the house and helped to generate a truly memorable occasion. In addition, with no light pollution, our location offers exceptional stargazing – an enduring delight for one of our grandchildren.”“This has been a truly special home in an incredible location, one filled with memories and milestones. As the time has come to move on, we sincerely wish the new custodians as much happiness and contentment as we have enjoyed throughout the years.”