Lower Barn
Nr. Southwold, Suffolk

SOLD

Architect: Richard Griffiths

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This barn, converted by the renowned architect Richard Griffiths in 2001, is located in one of the most spectacular situations on the British coast. The Blyth estuary is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and a Site of Special Scientific Interest. It incorporates a National Nature Reserve, a Suffolk Wildlife Trust reserve, and a RAMSAR internationally important wetland. The barn is in the rare and hugely privileged position of being set in the heart of the Blyth estuary with a panoramic view taking in the church towers of Southwold, Walberswick and Blythburgh. At low tide the estuary is teeming with waders – dunlins, curlews egrets and flocks of avocets – and the resident barn owl frequently flies over at dusk.

Planning laws stipulate that this property, which is semi-detached, cannot be used as a principal residence. The site can be found down a quiet track on the outskirts of the pretty village of Blythburgh, just four miles from the popular seaside town of Southwold.

Accommodation incorporates an entrance hall leading to a very spacious open-plan ground floor with living, kitchen and dining areas with glazed doors opening out onto morning and evening brick terraces. Also on the ground floor are two bedrooms, a bathroom, WC and utility room. Stairs lead to two first floor bedrooms, one of which is only accessible by stair ladder and is very popular with children.

Given that the setting has an immense appeal not only in summer but also in winter (particularly for bird watchers), the architect has ensured that the building is well insulated and well heated with wood burning stoves in both the main living areas of the barn and full underfloor central heating throughout.

There are spectacular views of the estuary and surrounding farmland in all directions. The barn is surrounded by largely level grounds which are part cultivated and part meadow so as to fit in with the surrounding landscape and to be low-maintenance.  There is ample space for parking.

Richard Griffiths is a renowned London-based architect who is well known for working in sensitive environments with unique buildings. He has worked on an incredible range of high-profile buildings including Lambeth Palace, Southwark Cathedral and the St Pancras Hotel.

Blythburgh is an historic Suffolk village that is perhaps chiefly notable for its majestic church (known as ‘the Cathedral of the Marshes’). It also has a shop / post office and good village pub. Nearby Walberswick is well known as one of the most attractive coastal villages in Britain and has two excellent pubs and fine sandy beach. The elegant town of Southwold is similarly celebrated and offers beautiful architecture, sandy beaches (which regularly win ‘Blue Flag’ awards) , excellent places to eat out and exceptional shops. It is also home to the Electric Picture Palace, a small but remarkable independent cinema. Further afield (about 13 miles away) are the popular town of Aldeburgh and Snape Maltings, the home of the world famous Aldeburgh Festival of Music.

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.


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