The Farmhouse

'The Farmhouse' at Bowersbury Farm  - a country home re-imagined for 21st Century living.

Originally built in 1953 and used as a private zoo and wildlife rescue centre by the famous British Naturalist and TV personality of the 1960’s Graham Dangerfield, the property had sadly fallen into decline over the years that passed. My clients, the current owners, have re-built, , re-modelled and re-imagined this slice of local history to present a living experience truly fit for 21st Century living. 

Situated within grounds of approximately 1.25 acres this contemporary six bedroom home literally feels nestled within the woodland of Bower Heath, just a mile or so from Harpenden's Victorian High Street and Thameslink Railway Station. Almost hidden along a leafy lane, a sweeping driveway leads to electric gates.  Here, the home reveals itself, a slice of contemporary architecture sitting effortlessly within the woodland setting. The dark exterior tones give an understated appearance whilst the Oak clad grand entrance reflects the natural surroundings. 

The landscaped frontage wraps around the home, with a gravel laid driveway offering bountiful parking. The entrance hall sets the tone for the rest of the home, a double height glass fronted atrium encased in Oak cladding creating an awe inspiring entrance hall. Epic in size and practical in nature, a stylish contemporary Oak staircase leads to the first floor whilst a walk-in coat cupboard and downstairs WC add convenience. 

Walking through to the spectacular kitchen, the home really comes alive. Floor to ceiling glass windows and sliding doors across the back of the property flood the internal spaces with natural light whilst the continuous large width engineered Oak flooring amplifies the generous room proportions throughout. 

The kitchen is simply stunning, handmade by 'Dwayne Edwards' it is unique and offers all the storage you could dream of. A vast Bookmatched granite topped island unit creates both a cook's dream and a social hub for the family to encircle and enjoy. All the appliances you would expect are here, with twin induction hobs and ovens, as well as walk in pantry and separate utility room. Storage is plentiful,  with cupboard space within the island and extra large units. 

There is copious space for a large dining table, perfect for large families or entertaining. The layout here is clever, with an epic island wood burner acting as a stylish division between the living and dining areas whilst creating a warm and cosy feel to the large living room. There is a further large reception room, dual aspect with large patio doors onto the garden and inset wood burning stove. Here there is also access through to a self-contained annexe offering opportunity for multi-generational living, older children or for any live -in assistance. The space is arranged as a beautiful living/dining and kitchen area, with separate bedroom, bathroom and its own formal entrance. 

As with the living space, the bedroom space is equally grand and spacious. On the ground floor there are two large double bedrooms, both with ensuite bathrooms. The first floor is arranged with two large double bedrooms, a family bathroom and a study/bedroom. The main bedroom suite is particularly generous in scale with a walk in wardrobe/dressing room, sumptuous ensuite with separate bath, shower and steam room, and boasts spectacular views over the grounds beyond.  

There is a large games room with kitchenette and ensuite which adjoins the detached double garage. Ideal for family fun or entertaining, whilst the garage offers an abundance of storage or space for covered parking. 

The grounds are spectacular, approximately 1.25 acres in size, south facing in orientation and boasting a stunning leafy backdrop over the local countryside. The mature treelined borders provide privacy and a connection with nature. Arranged with an extra large patio area immediately to the rear of the property which leads onto to a vast lawn area. The patio is epic in scale with a number of seating areas, gazebo and built in fire pit.  Tucked away within the grounds is a home gym, fully powered and air conditioned again adding to the way this property caters for every need and desire of the modern family. The house and grounds are directly connected to the local countryside with extensive opportunities for family walks. 

For families of all ages this home creates an idyllic lifestyle and freedom rarely available in such proximity to Harpenden's town centre.  The property affords privacy and a sense of semi-rural living whilst having access to direct trains into London St Pancras within 30 minutes. There are also the Ofsted 'outstanding schools' of Harpenden to cater for schooling needs, whether it is primary education or being within the catchment area of the renowned St Georges School. There are also the private schools or Aldwickbury and St Hildas. to literally cater for every need. There is also the brand new Katherine Warrington School which is nearby. Aside from the superb rail links, Luton International Airport is a short drive away, as are connections to the M1. 

Harpenden itself offers a tremendous lifestyle. Formerly a village this small, but now bustling town boasts a pleasant Victorian High Street and a Georgian centre. Famous for its 'common', a vast swathe of common land for all to enjoy with archetypal cricket club and golf course ( of which there are quite a few!). Or why not take a stroll through Rothamsted Park and end up at the White Horse for a delightful gastropub experience. There are a host of quality restaurants, including Lussman's, ZaZa's, and Bar Azita, as well as smaller independent cafe-style eateries like Parker & Vine and The Silver Palate.  There is a Nero's and a Costa to fuel every caffeine requirement or why not go independent and check out Emilio's street food on the pedestrian concourse in front of the town library . Again there are public houses a plenty, my personal favourite being the Oddfellows Arms, just behind Leyton Green, offering a stylish but quirky interior and a luscious outdoor seating area. 

All in all a home fit for the highest aspirations of 21st Century living. But please don't just take my word for it, take in the photos and if you think this home is for you then please call me to request more information or to book a viewing.