Fonnereau Road, Ipswich, Suffolk

“An architect-designed apartment on the edge of an 82-acre historic park”

This elegant apartment occupies an elevated position on Fonnereau Road, a handsome street with south-facing views over Ipswich. Sitting within the city's northern conservation zone, it backs onto the sweeping lawns and woodland paths of the expansive Christchurch Park. Designed and beautifully realised by architect (and owner) Charles Curry-Hyde, the apartment has been renovated with light and openness at the heart of the design. Conveniently situated, it sits less than a 10-minute stroll from the town centre and 15 minutes from the train station.

The Tour

A communal front door in building's double-fronted entrance leads to a grand communal entrance with original floor tiles and a winding staircase. Outside, a sweeping driveway provides off-street parking for residents and an electric charging point.

On the first floor, the front door opens directly onto an entrance hallway, with cupboards for coats, shoes, and additional storage. Beyond is a wonderfully bright, open-plan space on the south-facing elevation, where the kitchen, dining, and living areas are seamlessly integrated. Plywood lines the floor and joinery, reflecting the apartment’s design-led consideration, set against chalky grey walls and well-preserved cornicing. Large timber-framed, double-glazed bay windows allow light to permeate the space.

The kitchen has been thoughtfully designed with a bespoke plywood unit at its centre, housing a mezzanine space above that could be used for guest sleeping or storage. Appliances are efficiently integrated throughout, and a pantry sits adjacent with plenty of storage.

The open-plan configuration places a versatile study room, that doubles as a second bedroom, at the end of the room, accessed through sliding doors for privacy when desired.

Beyond the entrance hallway is the principal bedroom, lit by two large sash windows. A corner framed by the original timber structure is reserved for clothes and storage. The bathroom is adjacent, recently refitted, and is in keeping with the plywood details of the living room; marble tiles enclose the spacious walk-in shower, which has a playful hatch that can open into the living spaces.

Outdoor Space

Residents benefit from a communal garden, enclosed by mature hedging and providing a wonderfully secluded setting to enjoy the sunlight in warmer months.

The Area

Fonnereau Road occupies one of Ipswich's most prestigious and sought-after enclaves, perfectly positioned along the western boundary of Christchurch Park. Residents enjoy direct access to over 80 acres of rolling parkland, historic woodland, and the Tudor-era Christchurch Mansion. Ipswich is within easy reach of Woodbridge, the Suffolk coast, and Snape Maltings.

A short walk south leads into the vibrant heart of Ipswich, home to bustling coffee shops, artisan bakeries, boutique stores, and the historic Buttermarket. Nearby cultural landmarks include the New Wolsey Theatre and the thriving Ipswich Waterfront, where former grain stores and docks have been converted into trendy bars, seafood eateries, and dynamic spaces alongside the marina.

Ipswich station is 15 minutes away on foot or a quick bus ride, running direct Greater Anglia rail services to London Liverpool Street in under an hour.

Tenure: Leasehold and Share of Freehold | Lease Length: Approx. 968 years remaining | Service Charge: £160 | Ground Rent: N/A | Council Tax Band: C