This is a rare and exciting example of a Modern house with a large garden on the borders of south west London and Surrey. It is situated on one of East Molesey’s most sought-after roads and was designed by the architect Peter Squires for his own occupation in 1982. It was extended and refurbished in 2005 by Squires in collaboration with the acclaimed Dive Architects.
The house could be configured to have as many as six bedrooms. Currently the first floor is arranged with a wonderful master suite (with shower room) at the front, two more bedrooms and another bedroom with a large study area that could easily be another bedroom if need be. There is also a family bedroom on this floor. The room with the study area at the rear is a fantastic space with floor to ceiling glazing overlooking the gardens.
The ground floor is designed around a central reception area with glazed, full-height sliding doors that open onto a courtyard. This forms an open plan space with a dining area which also overlooks the courtyard. Steps lead down to a kitchen, now in need of updating but with superb views out to the lawn at the rear. Steps also lead to a separate study (which could be another bedroom) and a second reception / family room. This double-height space is one of the most impressive in the house thanks to its abundant windows and skylight that makes it airy and bright. The room is also notable for its bespoke concrete and timber seating.
There is an integral garage, reached off the entrance hall, as well as off street parking at the front of the property.
One of the biggest attractions of the property is the garden at the rear. Squires clearly enjoyed designing the house to sit resplendently in the garden site as there are views and glimpses of the lawn and trees (including plum, apple and a magnificent big beech) throughout. The house is constructed largely from timber and glass, with a timber frame and handsome timber cladding.
Squires was an experienced and passionate architect who working for Lambeth for much of his career, including during the post-war heyday of the council’s architects department. His influences were many- he had a particular interest in Le Corbusier of course but also studied more contemporary architects like Frank Gehry and historical figures such as Claude-Nicolas Ledoux.
Vine Road is one of East Molesey’s most sought-after roads. A quiet residential street, it is only a short distance away from East Molesey village shops and school. It is approximately fifteen minutes walk from Hampton Court Station. More comprehensive shopping facilities can be found at nearby Kingston and Walton. The area is well known for its outstanding schools and sporting facilities, such as rowing on the River Thames.
Please note that all areas, measurements and distances given in these particulars are approximate and rounded. The text, photographs and floor plans are for general guidance only. The Modern House has not tested any services, appliances or specific fittings — prospective purchasers are advised to inspect the property themselves. All fixtures, fittings and furniture not specifically itemised within these particulars are deemed removable by the vendor.
