Riverside, Wicken, Cambridgeshire

REF:AS01 Striking Barn-Style Brand New Build Occupying An Exceptional Riverside Setting In Wicken. Sweeping open views, Bold Contemporary Architecture, And An Idyllic Setting.

There are houses where the setting is impressive, and houses where the architecture is impressive. At Riverside, the two have been brought together quite beautifully.

Set within a small and exclusive collection of brand new barn inspired homes in the Cambridgeshire countryside, this exceptional property occupies an approximately 0.5 acre plot, with the River Cam running directly in front and open farmland stretching away in virtually every direction.

But this is a house where the quality goes considerably further than its setting. Constructed around a 142mm Kingspan TEK SIPS frame, the property has been created with longevity, efficiency and craftsmanship at its core. Triple glazed windows are crafted from slow grown
Northern European pine, while a Samsung air source heat pump, underfloor heating, hardwired data points and carefully considered lighting are just some of the details within an unusually comprehensive specification.

The finish is equally accomplished. A bespoke Hacker kitchen sits at the centre of the main living space, with handleless cabinetry, Carrara Misterio quartz worktops and a suite of Bosch appliances. Large format Porcelanosa tiling, oak detailing and herringbone flooring continue the understated, contemporary aesthetic throughout.

And then, of course, there is the setting. With the River Cam quite literally in front of the property, this is a wonderful position for anyone who enjoys being outdoors. The riverbank provides beautiful countryside walks, while the water itself is perfectly placed for paddle boarding and boating. Wildlife is in abundance and, with farmland surrounding the development, there is a genuine sense of openness and seclusion.

Architecturally, the house has the scale and presence of a traditional barn, interpreted in an
altogether more contemporary way. Its centrepiece is undoubtedly the spectacular open plan kitchen, dining and living space. A soaring vaulted ceiling creates an extraordinary sense of volume, while an expanse of glazing rises into the apex, drawing the landscape into the house.

The farmland beyond almost becomes a piece of living artwork, perfectly framed by the glass and providing an ever changing backdrop throughout the seasons. Despite the drama of this principal space, the layout hasn't sacrificed the cosier rooms that make a house work particularly well day to day. There is a separate sitting room alongside an additional
reception room, ideal as a playroom, snug or home office, together with a separate utility room and cloakroom.

Above the main living area sits an expansive mezzanine, overlooking the vaulted space below. It lends itself beautifully to a home office, reading area or occasional fifth bedroom and adds another interesting architectural dimension to the house.

There are four bedrooms on the first floor, with the master bedroom enjoying its own private balcony, a particularly special vantage point from which to appreciate the countryside setting. The family bathroom and en-suite continue the considered finish, with large format Porcelanosa tiling, underfloor heating and carefully selected fittings.

Outside, the scale of the plot is another real advantage. At approximately half an acre, there is a wonderful amount of outside space, complemented by a generous driveway and double garage. The gardens have room for children to play, summer entertaining and simply sitting back and enjoying a setting that would be incredibly difficult to recreate.

And ultimately, that is what makes Riverside so compelling. The River Cam in front, open farmland beyond, views in virtually every direction and a beautifully executed home at the centre of it all. It feels deeply connected to the Cambridgeshire countryside, while offering the architectural scale, specification and comfort of an exceptional contemporary home.

A genuinely special house, in a setting to match.

LOCATION:
Set on Stretham Road between stretham & wicken, the homes enjoy a wonderfully rural position while remaining exceptionally well placed for Ely, Cambridge, Soham and Newmarket. Wicken itself sits on the edge of the Fens, with the renowned National Trust - Wicken Fen Nature Reserve close by, offering miles of beautiful countryside, walking and cycling routes.

Ely is approximately 8–9 miles away, while Cambridge is around 16–17 miles by road & Newmarket approximately 9 miles, giving the setting that lovely balance of countryside and accessibility.