Something a little different in the Suffolk countryside – this 1960s-designed modernist house in Rendham, near Saxmundham, Suffolk.
It's one of a group of similar 'temple' houses designed by John Penn, a modernist-influenced architect who worked with Richard Neutra. Indeed, this is the first of the raised, symmetrical houses from nine in total and widely considered the best. It's also still faithful to the original design, still being in the hands of the family that commissioned it back in 1965. Although, according to the seller, that also means 'extensive refurbishment' is required throughout.
Some additions have taken place over the years, including a glazed roof over the central courtyard, a glazed entrance porch and a two-storey annexe to one side of the property, with accommodation now including a total of six bedrooms, three bathrooms, reception, entrance/dining area, kitchen/breakfast room, cloak room and second kitchen in the annexe. There's also a double garage, disused swimming pool and plenty of gardens. Indeed, the house is set back from a country road, offering even more space and solitude.
Rendham is close to Saxmundham, which is around two hours on the train to London. The house itself, despite the work required, is on the market for £460,000. If you want to see just how much work is needed, an open day takes place on Saturday 29th May 2010.
