It may have a deluxe kitchen made by one of the country’s premium kitchen designers, but Packwood Grange in Lapworth is also within walking distance of the renowned gastro pub The Boot Inn – ideal for when you don’t want to use your own AGA.
A corner stone in the brickwork at this rural home dates back to 1801 but the buyer of this impressive property will see some 21st century additions, which make it a home with an enviable mix of old and new.
The barn was converted by previous owners about 11 years ago and the present owners have lived there for about eight.
As well as upgrading it cosmetically, including new bathrooms, they have also installed PV panels to generate electricity, as well as ground-source heating. Investing in these makes the house much more energy efficient and economical to run.
“Interestingly, buyers have now started to pay more attention to things like the running costs of homes whereas a few years ago they would not necessarily have asked the question prior to a purchase,” explains Justine. “It really does reflect how our priorities have subtly shifted post recession.”
The house has under-floor heating downstairs and conventional radiators upstairs and for those few hot summer days, many of the main living areas and master bedroom are equipped with air conditioning.
While there is no doubt that the house has all the hallmarks of a former barn, the imaginative conversion inside means that there is 5,484 sq ft of light and airy living space over two storeys.
It’s a fabulous five-bedroom family home, set in a location that is not just screened – it is also very private, says estate agent Justine Borman.
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“I would go further and suggest the house is so discreet you can’t possibly get the full visual benefit until you are standing inside the grounds,” she says.
However, crucially, it’s also within walking distance of the village shop and local primary school.
“I think this is a real plus, too, because I am starting to notice that buyers want to be within a village and close to some basic amenities,” added Justine.
Inside, the house retains a number of delightful original features, including a vaulted ceiling, oak flooring and exposed roof trusses, while additions such as double-height windows and a galleried landing ensure the home is light and spacious.
From the entrance hall, the generous sized study is on the left and the formal dining room is on the right. This elegant space has large French doors that open on to the gardens and there is a connecting door to the sitting room, which has more large French doors that allow you to relax, looking out at the grounds.
Walk along the hallway to the handmade kitchen – modern but with a hint of countryside style – designed by Mark Wilkinson. It has plenty of white wall and base units and wood worktops, while a central island also provides more storage and preparation space. There is a four-oven AGA, as well as a Miele oven, gas hob, microwave, and a wine chiller. An informal sitting room is located directly off the kitchen.
All five bedrooms are on the first floor and each has access to an en-suite bathroom. The master bedroom suite has a dressing room and bathroom, while two of the bedrooms share a Jack and Jill bathroom.
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An unusual touch is locating the laundry room on the first floor, which means you don’t have to lug towels, bed linen and all the clothes down the stairs. Packwood Grange also has a cellar, which is used as an exercise room by the present owners.
Outside, you’ll find a detached four-car garage with a one-bedroom studio flat above, with bathroom and open plan kitchen/diner/living room.
The two acres of grounds are also a huge attraction, with a good mix of lawn, flower beds, paved areas and patios, and raised beds for growing vegetables. There’s also a hot-tub.
Packwood Grange is conveniently located for Solihull, which is seven miles away, Warwick, eight miles away, and it’s a 15-mile drive to Birmingham.
* Agent - Justine Borman
* Telephone - 01926 754109
* Guide price - £2,850,000