On the anniversary of the death of Inigo Jones, one of Britain?s most celebrated architects, the opportunity to build a spectacular country house in Oxfordshire has arisen.
The future St. John?s House will be situated in a dramatic south-facing position within a 60-acre estate near the village of Ramsden, Oxfordshire, enjoying commanding views over several counties. If purchasers choose to have St. John?s House built according to architect Adrian James? specification, the build and development cost could be around £5 million.
James? design is innovative and futuristic, juxtaposing local materials such as Cotswold stone with more unusual features made of glass, stainless steel and zinc. ?My thinking behind St John?s House was not to create a reproduction or pastiche classical house?, says James, ?the aim is to distil the essence of that architectural language and express it in a contemporary voice?.
Sam Butler of property specialist Butler Sherborn says: ?St. John?s House will change the way we think about country houses, encouraging us to look to more innovative, futuristic architectural designs?.
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Intensive landscaping is to take place on the site, creating a majestic approach and impressive grounds. The spiralling driveway will ensure visitors encounter a series of spectacular views on the way to the house and an imaginatively situated outdoor swimming pool and tennis court are also part of the design.
The property received planning permission in July 2004 under the Planning Guidance Note 7 (PPG7), but James says: ?Although St John?s House was approved under PPG7, it is also a superb example of what the new PPS7 requires?.
A pair of gatehouses, each with two bedrooms will grace the entrance to the property and the vast entrance hall of the main house will be approached by a bridge. An extensive drawing room and similar sized kitchen, a garden room, party room, gym, indoor pool, six bedrooms and guest and staff suites will complete the impressive accommodation at St. John?s House.
Butler Sherborn invites offers in the region of £2 million for the St John?s House site. Telephone: +44 (0)1285 883740 for more information.
