Pleasant Rise
The Ryde, Hatfield

SOLD
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“A winning entry in the RIBA Homes of the Future competition in 1960”

Lovingly preserved and carefully renovated, this four-bedroom detached house in Hatfield, Hertfordshire, is a fine example of mid-century architecture and a winning entry in the RIBA Homes of the Future competition in 1960. The internal living space spans 2,200 sq ft and is replete with original details, such as the open-tread staircase and exposed internal brickwork. Private gardens extend at the back and front of the house, with a driveway and garage providing private off-street parking. Pleasant Rise is a 15-minute walk from Hatfield station, with regular, direct rail services from here to central London in around 25 minutes.

The Tour

The house is set back from the road by a private paved driveway, where dense beech hedges ensure excellent privacy and a feeling of seclusion. The front garden laid to lawn and dotted with several young saplings, mature shrubs and a shingle border creates a welcome introduction to the house.

A timber-framed, glazed front porchway houses the primary entrance, flanked by a painted timber-clad lower façade. Expanses of glazing and picture windows invite natural light to stream into the entrance hall, a generous circulation space. Here, bespoke plywood cabinetry forms an excellent storage provision; softly coloured Marmoleum runs underfoot.

Internal living space is arranged across two storeys and has been finished with meticulous attention to detail, with underfloor heating across the ground floor. It is arranged in a methodical plan of versatile free-flowing, interlinking rooms which can be configured in various ways. The kitchen lies to the immediate right of the entrance hall, finished with beautifully hand-crafted cupboards, work surfaces and storage shelves. A utility room with pantry space is interconnected, separated by a doorway, with access to the gardens.

The original exposed brickwork and parquet flooring add material texture to the primary living space. This room is beautifully proportioned and offers great flexibility in its layout. Currently, it is loosely arranged as a dining and living area, with the original brick fireplace and tiled hearth forming a natural focal point. Deep-set picture windows frame views of the garden, and sliding glass doors retain a constant visual connection to the outside while ensuring excellent natural light internally.

A wide corridor through the central plan leads down to two of the four bedrooms positioned at ground level, one of which is currently set out as a study and dressing room. A shower room and ground floor WC lie adjacent.

The open-tread timber staircase leads to two bedrooms at either end of the first floor. Both have full-height windows, parquet flooring and pitched ceilings, creating height and volume. A deep line of storage runs the length of the landing, screened by doors. The bathroom lies to one side, finished in a clean and simple material palette.

Outdoor Space

The rear garden is mainly lawn and is a haven for birds and local wildlife. Tall specimen trees provide privacy and a welcome shade in the summer. Herbaceous borders come to life in spring, and a sunny terrace is an inviting spot to eat outside or enjoy a coffee in warmer months. In addition to the garage, ancillary storage areas adjoin the utility space.

The Area

The shops of Welwyn Garden City, Hertford and Hatfield are a short drive away, and many supermarkets lie within walking distance. Pleasant Rise is a mile from Hatfield House and Gardens and St. Albans is easily reached in around 15 minutes; a highly sought-after Hertfordshire city renowned for its excellent private and state schooling characterised by its historic architecture and many listed buildings, St Albans Cathedral, Roman Verulamium park and the River Ver.

There are many nearby options for a day out. The Henry Moore Foundation at Perry Green is a lovely place to wander among the gardens and sculptures or browse the house and galleries. The open-air immersive museum experiences at Mountfitchet Castle and Norman Village are close at hand, while the ancient royal hunting forest, Hatfield Forest, is a fantastic area to walk and picnic. Stanborough Lakes are an excellent summer destination for open-water swimming, and there are many local golf courses.

Pleasant Rise is superbly located for easy commuting to the city. Hatfield railway station can be reached on foot in approximately 15 minutes, where trains run directly to London King’s Cross (approximately 25 minutes) and London Moorgate (approximately 40 minutes).

Tenure: Leasehold
Lease Length: approx. 937 years
Council Tax Band: F

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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