Occupying an elevated plot, this charming late Victorian three/four-bedroom cottage is located on Water Lane at the edge of the north Essex village of Debden. It is surrounded by rolling countryside and has been extended and immaculately renovated to the design of its current owner, an architect. Interiors and exterior have been seamlessly stitched together in a marriage of contemporary style and a curated palette of materials, all illuminated by an abundance of natural light. Internal living accommodation of around 1371 sq ft is organised in an open layout and private gardens wrap the perimeter of the cottage. There are two designated private parking spaces and direct rail links to London Liverpool Street run from nearby Newport and Audley End.

The Tour

A short path winds from the shared access drive, past hornbeam hedging and hand-crafted outbuildings that contain a studio, wendy-house and garden storage. The entrance opens onto a cleverly conceived set of rooms, which make excellent use of space and are united by their exacting interior aesthetic and calm palette. Plywood, polished micro-cement, oak and pared-back joinery create a decidedly contemporary atmosphere, and the cottage’s light-filled rooms frame expansive views of the surrounding countryside.

The bright hallway/boot room leads down to a large kitchen and dining area running front-to-back of the original cottage. In turn, this leads down into the extension and a cosy living area with wide sliding doors, exposed ceiling joists, a wood-burning stove and far-reaching views. The extension was conceived to sit sympathetically beside the original cottage while providing a contrasting modern aesthetic. It harks to the cottage’s original gabled outline but presents with sleeker lines and pared-down details. Capping the single-storey section of the extension is a flat roof, prepared for the planting of sedum or such.

Adjacent to the living area is a lovely library/workspace; beyond lies another bright room with a full-width window seat from which more verdant views can be enjoyed. Currently used as a playroom, this would work equally as a fourth bedroom. A neatly configured utility room and WC complete the ground floor layout. Bespoke joinery, providing storage, shelving and work surfaces, is woven throughout.

On the first floor, the original cottage has also been completely renovated and its cleverly reconfigured layout has allowed for the creation of two spacious bedrooms with plentiful storage, and a family bathroom. The generous master bedroom, with its airy pitched ceiling, lies within the extension space. Sunshine streams through another large window and plentiful storage lines the side walls. Tucked into the eaves is a roomy and bright en suite shower room.

Outdoor Space

This cottage, one half of a pair, was originally built to house the gamekeeper of the nearby Manor House estate. It sits within open countryside and is just across the grassland from the stables and coach house belonging to the Manor. The garden has been laid out to exploit the sloping site and emulate the rigorous design of the house. Paths, terraces, hedges and raised beds lead past flowing and fragrant willows, verbena and lavatera. A south-facing terrace, accessed directly from the living space, provides a lovely spot for outdoor dining. The rear courtyard is the perfect area to grow herbs, rest bicycles and store logs.

The Area

Water Lane is situated on the edge of the peaceful village of Debden, which has a historic church, traditional pub, active village hall and a children’s playground. The location offers easy access to the surrounding open countryside and extensive walking and cycle routes. Within walking distance is the welcoming Bonnefire Cafe, offering wonderful coffee and pizza.  The neighbouring villages of Clavering and Newport are both a short drive away and have a good selection of local shops and pubs including The Cricketers, a pharmacy, an Indian restaurant, a bakery and a spa.

The historic town of Saffron Walden lies around six miles to the north east, close to the borders of Hertfordshire, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire. There are a broad range of independent and chain shops in the town, including a Waitrose, in addition to an award-winning concert hall and a twice-weekly market. Nearby Audley End House and Gardens is a popular local attraction, hosting regular events and walks throughout the year. Local schooling options are excellent. The Katherine Semar Montessori and Infant School in Saffron Walden has an outstanding Ofsted rating.  The secondary schools County High School in Saffron Walden and The Joyce Franklin Academy in Newport are both accessible via the school bus which operates from the village.

The closest city is Cambridge (15 miles away), whilst London is approximately 45 miles to the south. There is good access via the M11 to the A1 and A14 to northern and eastern locations and to the M25 for southern destinations. Two local train stations, Newport and Audley End, run services to London Liverpool Street in approximately one hour.

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.