7 bedroom house

This significant period country house dates back to 1906, when it was built to the personal commission of a Scottish hotelier, W A Shaw. The house originally stood in six acres, stretching from Lower Road to Oak End Way. Its land, orchards and stables contributed after the war, to
the development of the village, into the significant town it is today. After Shaw’s death in the 1930s, the house became the residence of the Japanese ambassador until all the staff were interned at the outbreak of hostilities in 1941. The house was then commandeered by the Canadian Royal Air Force for use as the officers’ mess and played host to innumerable wartime parties. Since then it has been a family home, significantly for three
families since the 1960s. The present owners have made a considerable investment in the house, restoring and enhancing its numerous period features. Built over two storeys, the house is built of brick with lovely stone porticos and a traditional loggia. Entered through a sweeping driveway, entrance to the house is gained via a covered portico. This opens into an impactful and beautiful oak panelled reception hall, both significant in its size and quality. From double doors you step down into the panelled drawing room and dining
room, which speak of family parties and wonderful
Christmas times. These rooms come to life at night, sparkling with their period mirrored panels and gilt wall lights, along with the open inglenook fireplace. Whilst the house has certainly lent itself to generous entertainment, it retains a sense of comfortable day-to-day living. The kitchen was designed by Martin Moore, at the behest
of the present owners, to reflect the original panelling, whilst keeping the room contemporary and bright.

Decorated in neutral colours to allow the period
detailing to shine, it is evident from the present
owners’ use of more contemporary furnishings
and artwork that this allows for striking and
effective contrast. Within over 7,500 square
feet of accommodation, there is great flexibility
and the two original principal reception rooms
are supported by a large sitting room opposite
the kitchen, which opens into an equally large
conservatory. From the breakfast room, the family
room lies across the hallway and this, in turn,
opens into the conservatory. The sitting room is
actively used on a day-to-day basis for its comfort
and views of the garden with the conservatory
affording a bright and open contrast during the
summer months. These spacious reception rooms
afford the house varied opportunities for intergenerational families, smaller family units and
generous additional space for guests or staff.
Overall this handsome period family house
is a rare, one-off opportunity to own and treasure
a significant part of the history of this sought
after town.
Outside

The setting and gardens are a key feature of the house encircling it on predominantly three sides and affording the house a high level of privacy. From every aspect of the house, you can view the gardens, with many species of mature trees and plants, which in every way reflect the status and beauty of the house. They are a wonderful setting for hosting summer lunches and barbecues and are a haven for birds and other wildlife. The garden feels like a serene oasis in the centre of this thriving town. 0.79 Acres.

Situation

Marsham Lane is a residential road of significant
houses close to the centre of the town, each well
screened within their settings. Gerrards Cross
is renowned for its extensive shopping facilities
including Tesco and Waitrose, along with a wide range of independent shops and cafés. The arrival of an Everyman cinema has proved a popular draw for the local area. There are several highly regarded private schools in Gerrards Cross, including Maltman’s Green and
St Mary’s School for girls and Thorpe House and
Gayhurst for boys. Nearby golf courses include
Gerrards Cross, Denham and Stoke Poges with
the surrounding Chilterns countryside providing
many lovely walks. The Chiltern Line railway
provides excellent commuter services to London
Marylebone.

Additional Information

Local Authority: South Buckinghamshire District Council Tel.
Council Tax: Band - H
Tenure: Freehold
Features and Services: Mains gas, electricity and water. Three fountains. Garden lights. Irrigation system.
Planning : Permission to replace the garage and include a one-bedroom apartment (application number PL/21/2892/FA).

Marketed by: Hamptons Sales, Gerrards Cross