Seven renovation homes with a story
If these walls could talk, what would they say?
From a renovated former Premier League stadium to a refurbished village prison, we have rounded up some of the most interesting property transformations from across the country.
Part of the allure of certain buildings is the mystery behind them, and these seven properties certainly have plenty of stories to tell.
Scroll down to peek inside some of the quirkiest renovations now listed for sale on Rightmove, with many featuring criminal pasts…
A lovingly restored village jail
Charming and prison aren’t two words that are often seen together, but in this case, it makes perfect sense. That’s because this quaint little cottage was once home to the village jailhouse.
This three-bedroom property is bursting with character and it is the dining room, now decorated with cream carpets and neutral-coloured walls, which used to be the Bisham prison back in the 1600s.
The small charming stained-glass window found here is one of this home’s fascinating character features.
Take a closer look at the property below:
A refurbished octagonal Georgian prison
This stunning six-bedroom property is very special for two reasons: firstly, it is one of only three octagonal buildings in the country and secondly, it was once part of a Georgian prison complex.
The three-storey family home in Yorkshire was the market town’s former House of Correction, housing prisoners during the Napoleonic Wars. It was bought by a builder and converted into a house in 1880.
The picture-perfect, Grade II-listed property is beautifully designed and also owns part of a lawned garden to the front of the house which has ample parking space.
Take a closer look at the property below:
A stylishly refurbished 1900s police station
This very stylish three-bedroom property is the ideal base for living and working in London but not so long ago you would have been very concerned if you found yourself inside these walls.
Built in 1904, with its red brick and contrasting buff coloured stone dressings and steeply pitched roof, this prime example of Edwardian architecture was home to Muswell Hill Police Station.
It still is, however, which is why this landmark is locally listed as a building of architectural and historic importance. As such you can imagine the care that is being lavished on its restoration and conversion – retaining its historic features whilst incorporating contemporary design.
Take a closer look at the property below:
A cleverly converted police headquarters
Formerly known as ‘The Old Police Station’, this impressively spacious two-bedroom duplex apartment is part of a wider renovation of the ex-force HQ.
The development has retained a host of original features most notably the facade of the building combined with a stunning entrance hall with marble flooring and ornate cornicing.
The apartment is drowned in natural light and also boasts underfloor heating, a bespoke kitchen, fitted wardrobes, high ceilings and full-height doors to create a bright and spacious modern home.
Take a closer look at the property below:
A 19th century fire station-turned-apartment
Jonny Cash fans can play Ring of Fire all night long at this fabulous two-bedroom apartment – which is on the ground floor of a superbly converted fire station.
The wonderfully renovated Woolwich Fire Station dates back to 1887 and the apartment has been designed to offer contemporary, stylish décor contrasting against their historic surroundings.
Ideally placed in the heart of Woolwich, an area of superb regeneration, the development is near to a fantastic range of transport links including Woolwich Dockyard for easy access into central London.
Take a closer look at the property below:
A beautifully transformed rare Victorian tower
If you’ve ever wanted to live in your very own mini sky scraper then this incredible converted tower, with uninterrupted views across the New Forest, the Solent and the Isle of Wight, is the home for you.
The Tower is a Grade II-listed 220ft high Victorian Folly set over 14 floors which comprises four three reception rooms and even a huge indoor swimming pool.
The property was originally built in the 1880s by Yorkshire barrister and high court judge Andrew Thomas Turton Peterson and there are more than 320 steps up to the top. Imagine having a cuppa up there!
Take a closer look at the property below:
A classic football stadium brought into the modern day
Attention all Arsenal fans: here is your opportunity to live in your very own slice of Highbury history.
This two-bedroom apartment at Highbury Stadium Square is of course built on the former site of the Gunners’ famous Highbury stadium – where the club won three Premier League titles.
The main living area spans the width of the home, enhancing the distribution of natural light throughout the day, boasting a large open plan kitchen and living room where the owner can imagine they’re living the dream of pulling on the famous red kit.
