Loxley Stables, Long Marston, Hertfordshire

Completed in 2020, this airy, architect-designed home lies in a peaceful spot, quiet and rural yet within easy commuting distance of London. High-quality finishes have been added throughout, from Corian kitchen surfaces to osmo-oiled oak floorboards. Most of the rooms are dual- or triple-aspect, with long, leafy views out to the garden and the countryside beyond.



The Tour



This house is one of three forming a small development on the edge of the village of Long Marston. It has a private driveway, with an EV charger and room to park several cars. Environmental performance was a key part of the original design brief: as a result, photovoltaic panels have been added to the roof, and there is an air-source heat pump and a heat-recovery system.



With brick and blackened timber facades, the home’s material profile references the local agrarian building tradition, while its shape cuts a distinctly modern silhouette. A covered entrance at the front provides access to a hallway that bisects the L-shaped plan and introduces the understated scheme carried throughout.



Directly ahead is a lateral living space, designed to be open and to foster unbroken lines of sight through the house, towards the surrounding garden and wider landscape. The kitchen is at the front, with Corian worktops and honey-coloured timber cabinetry. A matching island provides additional space and a focal point to the main vaulted living space. Adjacent is a dining area, and at the far end is a sitting space with a sunshine-yellow wall. Glazing wraps both sides of the room and studs the ceiling above.



There is a smart boot/utility room adjacent to the kitchen, and two additional reception spaces - arranged as a study and a living room, but flexible in nature - on the left and right of the entrance hall. The latter has a modern fireplace, while both have large sliding doors to the garden beyond.



A subtly sculptural bespoke staircase ascends to the first floor, which has four lofty and serenely appointed double bedrooms, along with a separate bathroom. The principal is a particularly lovely space with triple-aspect glazing, a dressing room, and a sublime en suite bathroom.



There is a brilliant outbuilding in the garden. It has a mezzanine level and plenty of storage, making it apt for use as in a variety of ways.



Outdoor Space



A private garden surrounds the house, visually seamless with the fieldland beyond. The views are long and expansive and often encompass flocks of grazing sheep. Pear trees stud the garden, bearing fruit in the summertime.



Adjoining the house are dining terraces, perfectly conceived for summertime hosting and barbecues.



The Area



Long Marston is a small village in Hertfordshire with a large community spirit. It has a local school, a traditional pub, and cricket and tennis clubs. Its village hall also plays host to a programme of events. Recently opened café Home Ground is a welcoming, friendly spot near a children’s play park.



The neighbouring villages of Wilstone and Cheddington have a selection of amenities, including pubs, a farm shop and a café. Tring is a short drive away and has cosy local pubs, including the atmospheric King’s Arms and The Black Horse, while Craftyard is a wonderful taproom and bar and Crockers is an excellent fine dining option. There are also several large supermarkets in the town, including an M&S.



The area has some enticing nature spots, including Wendover Woods, Ashridge House and Gardens, and a wonderful canal walk from Tring to Berkhamsted.



There are some excellent schools locally, including Tring Park School for the Performing Arts. Despite its feeling of remoteness, the house is also well-placed for travel into London: nearby Cheddington station runs services to London Euston in just under an hour, with more frequent, quicker services from Tring station, around four miles away.



Council Tax Band: G