WHERE PAST MEETS PRESENT

Absolutely takes a tour of a Marlow property full of history, but with no expense spared to celebrate 21st century design

In a prime position opposite the village hall, Bovingdon Cottage in Frieth Road dates from the early 1900s and was previously home to the Coster family who ran the tobacconist in Marlow. Commendably presented throughout and benefiting from underfloor heating in the kitchen, today it o ers a stunning example of modern life in a period property.

Behind the beautiful architecture of a quintessential double fronted facade, an outstanding central hall with a marvellous fireplace and log burner instantly sets the tone with its pared-back aesthetics and subtle palette. French doors to the rear lead directly out into the garden, while the accommodation unfolds around you. Two superb double aspect sitting rooms each have focal point fireplaces.

Supremely well-appointed, the exceptional kitchen/dining room is equally suited for family meals or entertaining, in addition to the cosy snug with log burner. The high sheen of its tiled floor subtly enhances the natural light from a wall of bi-fold doors that make it easy to step outside and enjoy al fresco dining. Beneath high skylights, the superior kitchen is fitted with elegant Shaker cabinetry topped with granite countertops and housing a first class array of appliances. A matching central island with bar stool seating delineates the space, and the tastefully chosen heritage hues of a considered seating area adds a refined pop of colour. The considerable dimensions open into an adjoining boot room and utility room. An equally impressive o ce is a haven when working from home, and a hugely stylish cloakroom completes the ground floor.

The idyllic outlooks and cohesive design themes are echoed upstairs where five fantastic bedrooms all benefit from fitted storage and supply an ideal measure of flexible family accommodation. With a Juliet balcony, a graceful principal bedroom is filled with light and has a sumptuous en-suite bathroom with a contemporary bathtub and rainfall shower. A second bedroom has an en-suite shower room, and together the additional three bedrooms share a deluxe family bathroom in a timeless metro tile setting.

At the front of the property, high evergreen hedging borders a substantial gravel frontage that together with the detached garaging provides o -road parking for several vehicles. The rusticated quoins and statuesque chimney stacks retain an abundance of charm and character.

Wrapping around from the sides to the rear, the large gardens have plentiful space for children to play on established lawns bordered by further hedgerows and fencing. Landscaped terracing and a patio add tranquil spots for al fresco entertaining.

Current owner Georgina Arnold has lived at the property for almost 12 years and said it has been a wonderful place to bring up her three now grown-up children – and here she gives a little more insight into this Marlow gem.

Q What appealed to you about Bovingdon Cottage when you bought it?

A First and foremost it was such a beautiful, pretty property in a wonderful location. It did need quite a lot of work when we arrived, but we fell in love with it straight away and could definitely see the potential.

Q What was the house like when you moved in and how have you improved it?

A We undertook quite an extensive refurbishment. The windows for example were all lead lined, which I wasn’t a fan of, so we replaced all of those along with the doors. The house was completely rewired and new plumbing installed, as well as being replastered. We also extended at the back to create a wonderful open plan kitchen/dining area and snug with bifold doors leading to the garden. The extension includes a large master bedroom with an en-suite and another en-suite for the second bedroom. We’ve more or less completely rebuilt it. There’s actually planning permission in place for an annexe that has all gone through and been approved. It would enable someone to knock down the garage and join the annexe to the house.

Q What is your favourite room/ space in the house? And why?

A Definitely the kitchen/diner and snug. That’s where I spend most of my time. We have five working fireplaces with log burners in the house – and the one in the snug makes it incredibly cosy. There is a lovely warm ambience.

Q What do you think is Bovingdon Cottage’s best feature?

A Other than the snug, I think the hallway is very impressive. It’s quite a large space and we installed a marvellous limestone mantlepiece above the fireplace and log burner. When that’s lit it makes for a wonderful first impression. However, it’s very hard to pick just one feature to be honest. We also have a lovely purple wisteria that comes out along the whole length of the house. It’s all just so very pretty. It will be di cult to say goodbye.

Q What might people be surprised to know about the area?

A There is a wonderful sense of community and everyone is incredibly friendly. We hold BBQs on the green in the summer and also have a Winter Supper in the village hall when we have a quiz, food and games. The Royal Oak pub is within walking distance and is a real hub of activity. Whenever there is a national event or holiday we all come together. We held a party for the Queen’s Jubilee and will be celebrating the King’s Coronation later this year. It is really lovely – but without being in each other’s pockets. People are always there to help if you need them.

The property on Frieth Road in Marlow is on the market with Savills Marlow for £2,850,000. For more, visit savills.co.uk

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