Merit for Victorian refurb

A refurbished Victorian property on New Park Road in Cranleigh, near Guildford, Surrey, has recently been designated by Waverley Borough Council as a Building of Local Merit because of its architectural merit, townscape value and historic associations.

The substantial five-bed three-bath home was purchased by Kent-based housebuilder Millwood Designer Homes last year and has been carefully renovated and restored back to its former glory, recently launching at the end of October.

Okehurst is a late 19th-century villa, built circa 1897 and marked by a hand-moulded ceramic plaque that can be found on its façade. It was one of the first houses to be built on the New Park estate where new houses were required to be constructed to a cost of at least £1,000.

Says Sales Director Philip Brown: “Okehurst is a very attractive building and a fine example of Victorian architecture, with an interesting past. It is part of the town’s built historic environment and it is important that it is identified and celebrated.

“When it came to refurbishing the property, which was in need of repair and modernisation, we retained as many original features as possible, as we felt it was important to preserve such a significant building. We are therefore delighted to hear that the home has been designated as a Building of Local Merit.”

Local estate agent Roger Coupe is impressed with Millwood’s transformation of the home, saying, “Okehurst has so many wonderful features and it is lovely to see them revived. The original front door remains, with its beautiful coloured-glass surround and glass inserts, and the original parquet floor in the entrance hall has been restored. Walking round the home you will note many ornate fireplaces and, although not functional, they are an attractive addition, with elegant marble surrounds and tiling.

“The skirting boards and picture rails have been retained, and doors and sash windows have been refurbished. The impressive oak staircase with ornate spindles has been sanded and repainted.

“As is typical for a Victorian home, Okehurst benefits from high ceilings, as well as a huge loft with access to the attractive turret, and a cellar.

“Okehurst is a beautiful home and, now that it has been refurbished to an incredibly high standard, it is ready to be enjoyed, so please get in touch if you would like to live in a significant property in this popular village.”

Cranleigh is only eight miles from Guildford, with all that this large town has to offer, including a fast train to London Waterloo in just over half an hour. Cranleigh is also close to the A281, with easy access to the A3 and M25.

Guide from £1.195 million. For further information, visit millwooddesignerhomes.co.uk.