Sumptuous countryside, some of the most glorious in the UK, combine with unrivalled heritage to ensure that properties being created in Warwickshire have a totally unique feel.
Indeed, the setting is steeped in history, yet the stunning barn conversions at Oversley Castle feature cutting-edge contemporary style.
A painstaking programme of restoration has transformed seven period barns – three of them Grade II listed – in the grounds of the landmark former home of King Henry VIII’s political adviser Thomas Cromwell.
Few barn conversions can match the rich heritage and visionary design of the seven period properties created within the magnificent 65-acre grounds of Oversley Castle, near Stratford-upon-Avon.
All of them have been meticulously restored in an ambitious project led by award-winning Warwickshire-based husband and wife team Paul and Anna Harvey, who are experts in renovating and reviving former farm buildings to create luxurious contemporary homes. It is a remarkable combination of luxury and location.
The barns range from two one-bedroom bolt-holes, ideal for those seeking a highly-individual weekend retreat, to the magnificent four-bedroom Tudor Barn, a Grade II listed timber-framed former threshing barn and annexe, which has had each of its original roof tiles re-cut and re-pinned.
This weekend, Saturday, June 4 and Sunday, June 5, potential owners will get the first opportunity to see for themselves the transformation that has been taking place in the grounds of Oversley Castle, which is set 350ft above the village of Wixford, and has spectacular panoramic vistas across Oxfordshire, Gloucester, Hereford and Worcester, the West Midlands, Leicestershire and Northamptonshire.
Those who make their way up the impressive private driveway, surrounded by professionally landscaped grounds, will be able to see for themselves the converted barns – each with a name reflecting its history – which have been redesigned to incorporate their period architectural features.
They will be able to look around the former stables that are now a stunning “Grand Designs” style four-bedroom home called The Fold Yard. It is built from mellow, local hand-made bricks and has vaulted living spaces filled with light from vast double-glazed windows through which can be seen unspoilt countryside stretching into the distance.
The interior of The Fold Yard has been designed by Anna, who together with her husband previously developed quality contemporary homes from former farm buildings in Warwickshire at nearby Farmington Old Farm and Netherstead Court, and restored 17th century Netherstead Hall.
She said: “The Barns at Oversley Castle have been the most sensitive restoration we have undertaken, and our most challenging project, but it has been worth it to see these historic buildings in this breath-taking location transformed into unique homes for the 21st century.
“Period features, such as original beams and stone walls, have been expertly renovated and enhanced by craftsmen, and these combine with high-specification modern fittings and fixtures that have been installed throughout.
“Each former farm building has been re-imagined, re-designed and re-invented in a contemporary rural style for a new incarnation as a unique new home for a discerning purchaser.”
Visitors can also see The Coach House, The Byre, The Forge, East Side and West Side, which are ready to move into. Each property comes with a Checkmate New Home Warranty.
The most historic is The Tudor Barn, a detached, timber-framed former threshing barn which is Grade II listed and believed to be part of the earliest farm on the estate, with some features dating back to the 15th century and others to the 17th century.
It has been restored and converted to provide modern, open plan layouts beneath magnificent original arched oak braces that were renovated over several months by a carpenter specialising in traditional timber-framing techniques.
The Tudor Barn comes with a self-contained annexe – nicknamed “The Casino” by card-playing farmhands during the last war – and is suitable for a range of uses, including a home office, a self-contained flat, a teenager’s pad, or a party complex. This whole dwelling can be finished to a new owner’s wishes.
The Coach House is a slightly smaller detached property with a double garage, three bedrooms and a balcony from which to take in the spectacular surrounding views of the Warwickshire countryside.
The Byre and The Forge adjoin each other, both have ground floor suite bedrooms and quirky access to additional accommodation on a mezzanine level, plus patios, and both come with detached garages.
Also adjoining each other are East Side and West Side, which are exquisitely-detailed one-bedroom homes providing open-plan living spaces and looking out across stunning rural vistas. Both have parking spaces and detached garages.
The open weekend takes place from 10am to 4pm on each day and prices start at £300,000.
For further information go to www.oversleycastle.com, follow @OversleyCastle on Twitter, email enquiries@oversleycastle.com or phone: 07939 594049.
VIEWING INFORMATION
AGENT: Oversley Castle
TEL: 07939 594049
GUIDE PRICE: From £300,000
