GALLERY
SHOWCASING BEAUTIFUL HOMES



As we enter the Spring and Summer months, there is a welcome air of stability within the property industry – long overdue after months, even years, of more extreme price changes, interest rate hikes, and homepurchase incentives than many have seen in their lifetimes.
And stability is what gives buyers and sellers confidence to move, which means more than just changing houses – it means realising the next stage in their life plans; achieving their schooling, careers, and lifestyle desires, rather than worrying about what impacts external factors have on their day to day lives.
This means we have seen a significant uptick in activity from buyers and sellers alike, looking to make their move while the playing field is level, and (unsurprisingly perhaps!) we would encourage those considering a move to act sooner rather than later.
Transaction times across the industry are slower than any of us would like, and with a General Election looming this Winter, which usually ‘stalls’ market activity, now is the right time to make the move you may have been considering.
Of course, we would be delighted to help you achieve this, whether you are looking to buy or looking to sell, or both, your local By Design expert can provide you with expert and experienced advice, to help you make the best decision for you.
And if we can be of any assistance in the future, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
We look forward to speaking with you soon, and for now, please enjoy this latest edition of Gallery Magazine.
David Lindley Founder and CEOAscot unveils its annual Royal Ascot lookbook from Daniel Fletcher.
Bedford Tel. 01480 278170
St Ives Tel. 01480 276826
South Cambs and Royston Tel. 07791 596 733
Cobham Tel. 0208 88782257
Luton Tel. 01582 958070
St Neots Tel. 01480 278170
Woolwich Tel. 07719563263
Nottingham Tel. 07970 736949
Nottinghamshire Tel. 0115 8990744
Letchworth Tel. 01462 539600
Leicestershire Tel. 07388 184397
Lincolnshire Tel. 01522 412802
Grantham Tel. 01522 412802
Northamptonshire Tel. 01604 969181
Warwickshire Tel. 07845 663 334
Central London Tel. 07812 721392
SURREY | GUIDE PRICE £3,400,000 7 4 4
Welcome to Hambledon House, a beautifully presented family residence offering privacy and seclusion on a prestigious residential road. Prepare to be captivated by the spacious elegance and enjoy modern amenities that effortlessly complement the classic charm of this home. Meticulously designed with an abundance of living space, this home is perfect for families and those who love to entertain. Luxury abounds throughout, with premium finishes and high-end fixtures adding sophistication and style. Nestled on a sought-after residential road, offering a harmonious blend of privacy and accessibility in the heart of Farnham. EPC F
0208 8782257 COBHAM@BYDESIGNHOMES.COM
LEICESTERSHIRE | OFFERS OVER £1,600,000 6 3 3
Experience the epitome of spacious living in this stunning 6-bedroom, 3-bathroom detached house located in the sought-after village of Bushby. Boasting a perfect blend of contemporary design and classic charm, this property offers ample room for growing families or those seeking extra space The open-concept kitchen and dining area flow seamlessly into the large living room, providing a perfect setting for entertaining. Enjoy a private garden overlooking 45 acres of greenery, ideal for outdoor gatherings, and a garage with additional driveway parking. Located in a family-friendly neighborhood, this home is conveniently close to top-rated schools, local amenities, and beautiful parks.
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This picturesque four-bedroom Grade II listed detached cottage-style property is situated in an idyllic village location. With its former history as a public house, the home exudes character and charm, reminiscent of the quaint cottages seen on chocolate boxes from yesteryear. If the allure of the quaint architecture does not win you over, then the true enchantment of the back garden will - nearly 0.75 acres of land - a peaceful and serene environment, surrounded by nature. Imagine living in the property which George Orwell used to frequent for a pint or two to get the juices flowing, when he lived next door in the late 1930s. Wallington has a wonderful village community with regular social events in the village hall and an annual fête for all the family in the grounds of the historic church. EPC F
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A Grade II Listed, 18th-century magnificent Lincolnshire estate of historic importance, privately nestled within its own parkland, forms an idyllic world of its own, yet is within easy reach of towns, cities, the east coast and Norfolk. Rich in stunning original period features and immaculately presented, this grand mansion boasts seven bedrooms flooded with natural light and is surrounded by 11 acres of grounds and parkland filled with fine mature specimen trees, sweeping lawns, and enchanting hideaways to relax. A restorative sense of calm is immediately imbued upon entering the beautifully landscaped setting, a feeling that continues throughout the entire property. EPC Exempt
This stunning non-listed converted chapel, built in 1910 and thoughtfully converted and extended in 2017, offers over 3400 sq. ft. of flexible living accommodation and comes to the market with no onward chain. With its unique and characterful design, it presents an extraordinary opportunity to own a one-of-a-kind home in a desirable location. Boasting 5 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms, this property offers ample space for a growing family or those who appreciate spacious living. This home offers fantastic open plan living with a kitchen/ breakfast/family room with bifold doors to the garden and a large living/dining room. There’s also an underground garage with driveway parking and a beautiful wrap around garden. The attention to detail throughout the property is evident, from the tasteful decor to the high-quality finishes. EPC D
Nestled amidst the serene beauty of Cobham’s Old Common, a rare opportunity for those seeking an exquisite blend of period charm and modern comfort. Situated in a picturesque setting surrounded by lush woodland, this distinguished Grade II listed three-bedroom, two-bathroom residence epitomizes tranquillity and sophistication.
Stepping inside, you are greeted by a welcoming ambiance that seamlessly merges traditional elegance with contemporary amenities. The property boasts two reception rooms, each exuding its own unique character and offering versatile spaces for relaxation or entertainment.
Embracing colour in the home - by Matthew Williamson
Striking a confident tone with colour is about intuition just as much as it is about suspending disbelief in yourself. To create a space that is a true expression of your life, tastes, and inspirations you must be open-minded and willing to let paint colours, fabrics and wallpapers shine, judging them not on how they will appeal to others or whether they feel ‘too much’, but on whether you truly love them.
For me, colour is the most powerful, exciting, and universal tool in interiors, it is the simplest way to make your home immediately joyful and optimistic. My love for colour began from an early age and largely came from observing my mother using bright shades and patterns in our family home in Manchester, as well as wearing colour and prints herself. She had an innate sense of style and knew that using colour, whether on a tablecloth or a dress, would instantly lift her mood. I learnt then that without a doubt, colour has a positive impact on our lives.
Personally, I am much happier in a room of colour than a white, clinical space. The first step when choosing a colour for a particular room is to always think about how you want to feel in that space. Do you want to feel calm and relaxed? Choose cool tones, from blue to green, and then work with a few additional shades similar to this colour base to dress the room with larger items.
This creates a stylish, harmonious feel. Are you feeling brave? Throw in some fuchsia pink velvet cushions or paint a picture frame neon orange to inject some personality first. If you love the result, go bigger. Colour may seem daunting initially, but if you take small steps and build on the layers of warm and cool tones, you will always feel comfortable.
“ I love either a wood or ceramic tiled foundation. Next, move on to the walls to create a solid base that will anchor the space. Once you’ve chosen a wall colour, it’s at this point you can give the room character by reflecting your own personality.”
When people ask me how I know which colours work well together, I always say I don’t have any colour rules as such – I try to avoid theories and comparisons. In my projects, I go with colours that I naturally gravitate towards and that make my heart sing. For me, it’s often muddy greens and soft, plaster-like pinks. Everyone has different tastes, so narrow down what it is you love. I love to mix warm and cool tones together in the same scheme, as I find in most spaces there should be a balance of complementary colours for contrast. I love decorating with a sense of layering, which is incredibly important. It’s not just about bringing bold, massive swathes of colour in. No matter what you go for, always remember that colour is one of the few interior design elements that can be changed quite easily, quickly, and affordably if you don’t like it. It’s not something which once chosen must remain forever, so it’s well worth giving it a go, having fun, and trying something new.
When it comes to designing rooms, I always start with the floor. It’s usually the most expensive element, so it’s worth getting right using natural tones and materials because it needs to last – I love either a wood or ceramic tiled foundation. Next, move on to the walls to create a solid base that will anchor the space. Once you’ve chosen a wall colour, it’s at this point you can give the room character by reflecting your own personality. Wall art, piles of books, cushions and candles are where I like to inject contrasting tones – and, as they’re smaller items, you can afford to experiment with mixing colour and pattern to suit your taste. Finally, it’s important to add a sense of balance to your space. In my home, I even out the vibrancy of my colour palette with soft, calming neutrals such as pale pinks and grey-greens. For me, these colours are the equivalent of white, grey, and beige –they provide a soothing effect without ever being bland or characterless.
Ultimately, your home is more than just a roof over your head, it is precious and valuable and should represent you, your family, what you love. Forget about trends and embrace the colours that speak to you and express how you want to live.
www.matthewwilliamson.com
Nestled in the heart of Bushby, Leicester, Plumtree Cottage stands as a beacon of modern comfort and convenience. Recently renovated, this spacious 3-bedroom cottage exudes charm and warmth. Its prime location ensures easy access to highly rated schools and essential amenities, enhancing the quality of life for residents. What sets Plumtree Cottage apart is its thoughtful design, including ground floor accommodation that seamlessly integrates accessibility with style. Whether it’s hosting gatherings or enjoying quiet evenings, the cottage caters to every need. With ample space and contemporary finishes, Plumtree Cottage invites you to create lasting memories in a home that embodies both tradition and modernity. EPC D
This enchanting Grade 2 Listed Cottage is nestled in the picturesque village of Paulerspury and exudes historic charm with its 17th-century origins, offering an idyllic countryside retreat. Boasting 3 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and 3 inviting reception areas, this characterful home provides ample space for modern living while honouring its rich heritage. Situated on 0.5 acre, this home offers stunning wraparound gardens and gated driveway parking. The property’s real jewel lies in its potential to develop further. Planning permission is in place to convert the large detached barn (which is not listed) as well as build a separate 3-bedroom detached house in the orchard, making this property a fantastic investment opportunity or a perfect multi-generational living option. There is also no overage/uplift clause on the land, which means you can enjoy the property’s full potential without restrictions. EPC Exempt 01604 969181
A superb energy efficient barn, located on this exclusive rural development, where far-reaching paddock views provide an idyllic backdrop. The home offers an impressive contemporary interior infused with versatility, quality and character. Externally, the property enjoys a spacious entertaining area, ample private parking, a tandem double garage and undulating views. EPC B
This elegant four-bedroom residence at Guessens Road presents a seamless blend of contemporary style with the timeless allure of suburban charm. Positioned in a well-established neighbourhood, it provides the perfect setting for family growth and boundless outdoor enjoyment. The heart-stealing feature of this property is the expansive west facing garden, a serene sanctuary that captures the beauty of outdoor living, framed by mature trees that offer both beauty and privacy Designed with the dynamics of modern family life in mind, the home is nestled within reach of essential amenities, ensuring a balance of countryside serenity and urban convenience. For the outdoor enthusiast and pet lovers, the surrounding area is a tapestry of scenic walks right on your doorstep. EPC E
Ascot unveils its annual Royal Ascot Lookbook under the artistic direction of celebrated British fashion designer Daniel Fletcher.
It marks a significant and historic step change for the British racing institution as it appoints a creative director –a first in the world-renowned event’s 300+ year history. Taking the helm of this year’s style direction, Fletcher has brought a renewed approach to dressing for occasions, applying his signature aesthetic to create a bold new look. The 2024 Royal Ascot Lookbook continues to shine a light on tailoring – a longstanding and signature style in occasionwear –with two bespoke suits from Fletcher’s eponymous brand DANIEL w. FLETCHER.
This is complimented by a fresh take on its eagerly anticipated edits, which help racegoers to be inventive in the way they source their looks to create an inspired outfit that is authentic to their personal style. This year’s Lookbook includes five consolidated edits that showcase a range of looks appropriate across all enclosure dress codes, from the Royal Enclosure through to the Windsor Enclosure where there are no dress rules but Fletcher’s guidance can still influence. Highlights include ‘New Guard’ – a category which showcases rising stars and independent brands including designers from Daniel’s graduating class at Central Saint Martins. Consider this a personal homage to his peers and contemporaries.
The Best of British Edit: Showcasing a selection of the UK’s finest homegrown craft and talent, Best of British takes inspiration from Fletcher’s career and long fascination with British heritage. There is a playful wit to the way unexpected styles are combined with clashing stripes and ties worn against A-line silk dresses.
The edit features heritage brands such as Hunstman, to London Fashion Week favourite Emilia Wickstead, and a bespoke look designed specifically by Fletcher for Ascotfeaturing multi coloured stripes inspired by the silks worn by jockeys.
The New Guard Edit: Dedicated to the next generation of independent designers paving the way in fashion, this edit offers up a new take on occasion dressing. It pays homage to Fletcher’s Central Saint Martins peers with fellow classmates WED Studios, Chopova Lowena and Stefan Cooke featuring.
The Conscious Edit:
This edit aims to showcase how racegoers can dress up whilst simultaneously thinking about the impact their fashion choices have on the environment. It brings together designers including Stella McCartney and Vivienne Westwood famed for their ethos of creating in a sustainably conscious manner, alongside vintage garments and hired items that champion recycling, instead of buying new. Highlights include a custom suit designed and made in London by Fletcher using a deadstock lightweight tweed thus heroing product that is made and sourced locally to reduce carbon footprint.
The Luxury Edit:
For racegoers looking to elevate their look with a touch of glamour, this edit features some of the world’s most celebrated designers, with quality craftsmanship showcased through sumptuous fabrics, and the manufacturing techniques befitting of high fashion. From Missoni intarsia knit dresses to intricate pleating from Zimmermann, and exquisite draping from Marc Jacobs, each has been personally chosen by Fletcher for their high-fashion credentials.
The Tailoring Edit:
An emblematic part of Royal Ascot, and a signature style in occasion dressing, that you can never go wrong with is a classic top hat and tails. Here, this is highlighted in fresh ways to incorporate tailoring into raceday dressing. From the relaxed to the razor-sharp, this tailoring edit aims to showcase the breadth of options available across the high street — from Moss and LK Bennett — to the bespoke end of the spectrum, with investment pieces from the world-renowned Savile Row.
“Fletcher has brought a renewed approach to dressing for occasions, applying his signature aesthetic to create a bold new look.”
While the official Royal Ascot Dress Code remains unchanged, he new direction of the Lookbook offers a range of inspiration beyond a day at the races with the aim of enticing audiences to get lost in the magical world of style. Each look nods toward modern approaches and attitudes when it comes to occasion dressing, celebrating primarily a deep sense of personal style, while also adhering to the dress codes of Royal Ascot’s four enclosures.
Fletcher brought together an enviable cast of creatives to realise his latest project, legendary makeup artist Andrew Gallimore, hair stylist Hiroshi Matsushita, and celebrated photographer James Robjant.
Located in the picturesque village of Wigsley, Handley House offers a spacious, superior-quality four-bedroom family home with high-end fixtures, an open-plan layout, and abundant natural light. The property seamlessly connects to the picturesque surroundings. Externally, it boasts an oversized double garage, ample parking for several vehicles, and enclosed private gardens. EPC B
CAMBRIDGESHIRE | OFFERS OVER £800,000
4 3 2
This beautiful, Grade II listed home, boasts a charming blend of traditional character and modern living, providing a truly unique living experience. With over three thousand square feet of versatile accommodation, College Farm House really does deliver in terms of spaciousness. Nestled in the heart of the idyllic Cambridgeshire village of Fen Drayton, with no onward chain, this property offers potential buyers the ultimate family home. The house has a great flow to its accommodation with a very airy feel, some unexpectedly high ceilings and beautifully large windows flood the house with natural light. EPC E
01480 278170 STNEOTS@BYDESIGNHOMES.COM
Discover the timeless beauty and character of this exquisite 1830s Grade 2 Listed property, nestled in a private cul-de-sac within the sought-after village of Wootton, Northamptonshire. The Cloisters offers 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a beautiful kitchen/diner, a cozy sitting room with log burner and a large conservatory. This stunning home benefits from a lovely south-facing garden, a large frontage with a double garage and driveway parking, providing ample space for multiple vehicles. With its rich history, scenic surroundings, and a great community, Wootton offers the perfect blend of tranquility and convenience. There are many local amenities including a doctors surgery, a chemist, a post office, a butchers, a Co-op, a Waitrose, a garden centre, pubs/restaurants, a church and more! Fantastic schooling can also be found nearby. EPC Exempt
LONDON | £650,000
2 1 1
This stunning apartment is located on the 19th floor of Norton House within a landmark development, offering uninterrupted views. Situated adjacent to the river, it boasts partial river views and is conveniently located just a short walk away from the Elizabeth Line. The apartment features a high quality open plan kitchen, equipped with integrated appliances and a beautiful stonework surface. Ample storage space is available throughout the apartment and the real wood flooring adds a touch of elegance. Additionally, the apartment offers a south east facing balcony, allowing you to enjoy the scenic surroundings. Residents of this development have access to superb amenities, including a well equipped gym, a refreshing pool, and a private cinema room. These facilities provide an enhanced living experience and contribute to a convenient and enjoyable lifestyle. EPC B
0203 3752355 WOOLWICH@BYDESIGNHOMES.COM
Welcome to The Pastures, a small exclusive cul-desac development of only 6 properties. This detached Potton home, full of character and charm, offers the perfect blend of rustic elegance and contemporary comfort. With convenience and comfort in mind, the entire house benefits from underfloor heating. A central vacuum system adds further ease to your daily routine. The property offers four bedrooms, two recently renovated bathrooms, a stunning new kitchen/diner/family room, a utility room, a dining room with gas fire, a large sitting room with log burner and an office. Situated on approx. 1/3 acre plot, the house enjoys a serene and private setting, backing onto picturesque countryside. Parking will never be an issue with a double garage that includes a workshop, as well as a gated driveway providing secure off-road parking for multiple vehicles. EPC C
Hill Crest House is a luxurious and versatile fivebedroom family home located in this picturesque coastal village, offering approximately 3250 sq. ft of stylish accommodation set over three floors. The property stands in a peaceful setting with views of the church. Additionally, it benefits from a private landscaped garden with entertaining area, a spacious detached garage, and parking for several vehicles. EPC C
Travel-inspired design: how travel can act as a voracious source of inspiration for your home
By Martin Waller, Founder of global design house Andrew MartinAs the saying goes, travel broadens the mind. Gliding down the Amazon River in a carved canoe will stretch and contort it; escaping to Cambodia to hunt for temples beyond Angkor Wat will ignite something within it. Travel becomes an addiction, a compulsion that when fed, still groans with hunger.
The gift of travel has given us the opportunity to see and absorb cultures and places so different from our own. We can see wonders for ourselves that were previously just thought to be travellers’ tall tales. Exploration gives us access to the world’s magnificent treasure chest of cultural traditions and upon returning home, people often want to share these experiences through the medium of their own sanctuary. After all, a home is a backdrop to life and so its interior design should reflect your personality and the things that you love, including the places you’ve visited.
A design scheme begins with one detail: a particular colour, an interesting texture, or a storied theme which can come from your favourite artefact or maybe a quirky personal item sourced from recent travels. It is from there that the room builds layer upon layer, and you can play with mixing materials like steel with stone, leather with hessian, old with new. It is about telling a story and creating surprise with the array of beautiful shards along the way.
Since the wake of the travel generation, the accessibility to and interest in foreign textiles has boomed. People are opting for fabrics that bring an energy or a feeling and look like they are one-off, unique piece. Now in British interiors you often see kilim stripes from Asia, mud cloth motifs from West Africa, and embroidery from Mexico.
“The method can involve a whole day of weaving to produce just a single metre of silk. But it was more than just the product that captivated me – it was the serene patience of the weavers, the skill of the dyers, and the ancient tradition of the technique”
Another example is the Berber rug. The style of rug originates from the nomadic Berber tribes of the Atlas Mountains in Northern Africa. With a rich history and tradition of rug weaving, it is not surprising that their geometric designs and trellis motifs have translated into modern interiors schemes. Berber rugs are defined by their artisanal style, boasting asymmetrical trellis designs in natural wools and dyes in soft cream and charcoal.
The Berber rug embodies the fusion of century-old weaving wisdom, a classic colour scheme and quirky, somehow contemporary patterns, making it a go-to rug for modern interiors. Beyond the Berber tribes and their timeless creation, it was in Thailand that I first saw the miracle of silk yarn production and the laborious work of ikat weaving.
The method can involve a whole day of weaving to produce just a single metre of silk. But it was more than just the product that captivated me – it was the serene patience of the weavers, the skill of the dyers, and the ancient tradition of the technique.
Unique trinkets and objet d’art from far-flung destinations also make up some of our most valuable possessions. The act of collecting items as you explore this world is meditative. Such items become reflective of times and dates, combining to build a store of memories, not just beautiful objects to admire. My collection of ancient Egyptian funeral masks is my favourite find.
“Travel becomes an addiction, a compulsion that when fed, still groans with hunger.”
They serve as a beautiful reminder of our mortality. I also keep a collection of vintage toys from my childhood in my library. Rather than being limited to one style, now people are influenced by the global assortment of design; from the perfect symmetry of the American look, the magic of African tribal artistry, the serenity of Scandinavia, the heritage of French sophistication and the individualism of British décor.
For this reason, I have coined the current decade the kaleidoscope era – a menagerie of objects laden with nostalgia and sentimentality, each with a truly transporting power. Anything goes, and the more unexpected, the better, much like jewellery or cufflinks to an outfit.
www.andrewmartin.co.uk
Welcome to High View House, this exquisite 5-bedroom house situated in the idyllic village of Yelling. Nestled in the heart of the High Street, this stunning home offers the perfect blend of rural charm and contemporary living. Completely refurbished throughout, this property presents a unique opportunity to own a piece of English countryside paradise. Ideal for growing families, there are two en-suite shower rooms and a total of five good-sized bedrooms. The highlight of the ground floor is the spacious and modern kitchen diner, seamlessly connected to the adjacent sunroom. As you prepare meals in the re-fitted kitchen, large windows allow natural light to pour in, flooding the space with warmth and offering breathtaking views of the lush garden. EPC D
Spacious, luxurious and private. Located only a short walk from the picturesque Lickey Hills Country Park is this immaculately finished detached home. The property has 4 double bedrooms plus a converted attic room, 2 bathrooms, including an en-suite to the primary bedroom, and 2 additional WCs. The kitchen is an exquisite work of art! The dark Laura Ashley cabinetry compliments the gorgeous white quartz worktops that make up the large ‘L-shaped’ island. A wall of contrasting cream cabinetry frames the high-end appliances which include a Neff oven (with slide and hide door), Neff microwave-oven and warming drawer. Furthermore, the kitchen is equipped with a boiling water tap, Elica induction hob with built-in filtered extractor, and a top of the range Fisher & Paykel double drawer dishwasher. EPC C
07845 663 334
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This stunning detached property, situated on a generous plot of approx. 1/3 acre, offers a combination of space, comfort, and potential that is truly unmatched. With 4 double bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, a beautiful kitchen/breakfast room, a spacious dining room, a cozy living room with log burner, a wonderful wrap-around conservatory, a large office and annexe/extension potential, this is the perfect home for growing families or those in need of extra space. Willingdon is shielded from the road by mature trees and a substantial drive provides ample parking. There is also space to build a garage. The tree lined south-west facing rear garden is a true oasis, providing a peaceful haven for relaxation and entertaining. There is no onward chain, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free purchase process. EPC F
Stone House and The Old Stable are exceptional Grade II Listed Georgian residences, offering a spacious detached family home with separate detached ancillary accommodation. Situated in the heart of this sought-after village, the generous accommodation, totalling 3000 sq. ft, showcases a wealth of character and original features. Externally, the properties occupy a wonderful corner position with expansive lawned gardens, a courtyard, a double garage with an electric door, and private parking for several vehicles. EPC Exempt
NORTHAMPTONSHIRE | OFFERS OVER £900,000
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This stunning 19th century, non-listed family home is located in the sought-after village of Guilsborough and comes to the market with no onward chain! This property offers just over 4000 sq. ft. of flexible living accommodation with 6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, a beautiful mezzanine study, an office and a further 5 reception rooms. There’s also the potential to convert a wing of the house into an annexe as it has its own separate access. This home has the most wonderful kitchen/diner with log burner, perfect for family life and for entertaining. The Tower House sits on just under half an acre and is located at the end of a long private driveway, offering peace and privacy.