Ballard Estate, Swanage, Dorset

This bright, timber-framed house lies within the clifftop Ballard Estate, minutes away from the beaches and dramatic coastal paths of Studland and the Jurassic Coast. Internal living space spans over 1,430 sq ft across a single storey, which has been recently renovated and thoughtfully altered by the current owners. The attention to detail is precise, employing soft and tactile materials and adopting an open-plan layout that optimises the exceptional coastal light. Outside, the house has private south-facing gardens and a secluded terrace positioned on either side.



The Building



The Ballard Estate was built in 1917 and forms a unique collection of single-storey houses on the cliff edge. The estate has its own chine, with exceptional views over Swanage Bay towards Peveril Point, the Isle of Wight and Ballard Downs. A flight of steps leads directly down to the beach at Shep’s Hollow.



The renovation was a collaboration between Architecture for London and design firm Nune. All the interiors, fixtures and fittings were professionally sourced by Nune and are included in the sale.



The Tour



A gateway leads through to the secluded garden and primary entrance, where a raised decked terrace spans the perimeter and a glazed porch provides space for coats and shoes. A private driveway at the front of the house has off-street parking for two cars.



On entry, the excellent quality of natural light that characterises the house is immediately apparent. Sunlight illuminates the open-plan living space, and vaulted ceilings provide an elongated sense of volume. The living area is positioned at one end, with a log-burning stove set upon a white-brick hearth. A dining area has been arranged opposite, but the space offers great flexibility in its layout. Soft colours create a calm atmosphere, enhanced by sensitive lighting and a wall of glazing that frames views of the garden.



The modern kitchen, presented in a contrasting yet complementary palette of colours and materials, has views out to Ballard Downs and has been thoughtfully designed for the practicalities of daily life, with appliances and laundry facilities tucked neatly into custom-built cabinetry with contemporary fittings. A long, light-coloured oak worktop provides generous cooking and preparation space. Striking handmade terracotta tiles spread out underfoot.



There are four beautifully proportioned bedrooms, with a good provision of storage set into vaulted ceilings. Both the main bedroom's bathroom and the shared family bathroom are impeccably finished. In the latter, terrazzo runs underfoot, and a combination of glossy kit-kat tiles and butt-and-bead panelling adorn the walls. There is a walk-in shower set beneath a roof light, as well as a large and luxurious bathtub.



The fourth bedroom occupies one half of the former garage; separate from the main living areas, it would create an ideal home workspace.



Outside Space



A door leads from the kitchen to the decked terrace. Here, a custom-built dining area provides the perfect corner for outdoor suppers or an evening sundowner, with the sea just visible along the horizon.



On the opposite side of the house is the garden, which has been primarily laid to lawn. Slatted timber borders the space and provides privacy. A simple outdoor kitchen is discreetly positioned at one end and pink magnolia and several cherry trees burst into life in the spring. There is also a hot tub in the garden - an ideal spot after a brisk sea swim.



The garage has been fully weather-proofed, insulated and fitted an extractor fan. It is an ideal spot for stowing away beach gear or other household items.



The Area



The Jurassic Coast is a hugely diverse and beautiful landscape, underpinned by incredible geology of global importance. In 2001 it was inscribed as a Unesco World Heritage Site for the outstanding value of its rocks, fossils and landforms. It remains England’s only natural World Heritage Site. The Jurassic Coast begins at Orcombe Point in Exmouth, Devon, and continues for 95 miles to Old Harry Rocks, near Swanage, Dorset.



There is a local shop and newsagents a few minutes’ walk from the house and a broader selection of amenities in Swanage town centre, which is easily reached by foot along the seafront in around 20 minutes.



Service Charge: £350 per annum (inclusive of maintenance of the shared services and access areas belonging to the Ballard Estate)

Council Tax Band: D