The Street, Puttenham, Guildford, Surrey, GU3

Nestled at the foot of the North Downs, The Kilns is perfectly positioned along a peaceful stretch of The Street in the heart of the historic village of Puttenham. Dating back to the 1800s, this former 19th-century hop kiln, or oast house, has been thoughtfully adapted into a tastefully modern family home. The striking louvre vents, timber beams and feature brickwork of the original architecture remain in place, a reminder of the part the building played in the thriving local hop-drying industry.

Timber framed double and triple glazing has been sensitively incorporated, high ceilings and an abundance of sunlight engender a wonderful sense of space and the surrounding countryside lends an idyllic pastoral backdrop. Behind the shelter of a brilliantly broad south facing canopied entrance, a distinctive double fronted facade entices you into the considered layout of this unique home. Easily accommodating a piano or couch, the excellently sized central hallway gives an instant hint of the fluidity of the design lending an easy flowing feel to the rooms unfolding around you. An expansive wall of floor to ceiling windows fills a triple aspect sitting/dining room with natural light and together with wide sliding doors at the rear allows the space to blend beautifully with the setting and gardens outside. Conjuring a superb place for day-to-day life, quiet evenings in or entertaining friends, the generous dimensions have the focal point of an elegant fireplace with a wood burner. A timber framed arch subtly gives delineation to the open plan layout, and the texture and tones of exposed brickwork stretch up to the beams of notably high ceilings.

Combining with the sliding doors of the dining area to give you every opportunity to step out and unwind in the summer sun, the adjoining kitchen has its own door to the large courtyard garden. Admirably light and airy, this supremely well-appointed space is fully fitted with a wealth of country cabinetry housing eye-level tower ovens, an induction hob and additional freestanding appliances. The wrap-around arrangement has a prized level of workspace and the more than considerable proportions easily accommodate a breakfast table. Ideal for those who work from home or want the added benefit of a play, TV or guest room, across the hallway a separate study has the versatility to cater to your own needs. A cloakroom completes the ground floor.

Follow the understated elegance of a turning staircase up to the first floor and you’ll find a succession of four bright and roomy bedrooms flowing around a central landing. The considered use of soft neutral hues combines with the warming tones of the solid wood doors and timber framed windows to give a hugely calm and cohesive feel. Sunlight filters into the extensive landing via a perfectly placed porthole roof light and the high ceilings of the bedrooms echo the sense of space that features throughout.

Sitting peacefully to the rear of the house an enviable principal bedroom is filled with pastoral views of the surrounding fields via a trio of windows. A wall of fitted wardrobes supplies plenty of storage and an en suite has a modern corner shower. Admirably spacious, the second double bedroom has a trio of windows and wall of fitted wardrobes of its own and two large single bedrooms proffer ample flexibility for a growing family. Together they share a family bathroom that continues the timber detailing with its wood panelled bath and fitted basin cabinetry.

Outside
Encompassed by high stone walls generating a coveted measure of privacy, the large courtyard garden generates a final reminder of the history and heritage of this former hop kiln. Statuesque trees in the neighbouring landscape pop their heads above the high walls drawing your gaze and enhancing the tranquillity further still.

Gently tiered brick paving extends out beneath your feet giving plenty of opportunity for everything from a coffee in the morning sunshine to al fresco dining on a grand scale. Raised flowerbeds stocked with established shrubs lend dashes of colour and evergreen foliage, and a painted timber gate provides handy secure access to the detached garage and off-road parking space.