Upwey, Weymouth, Dorset

Welcome to North Bank. In 1983, the current owner, in collaboration with an innovative young architect, designed and built this engaging family home, celebrating architectural influences from his own rich experiences of living and working abroad.

An open ornate porch and front door opens into the ENTRANCE HALL with hand-cut mahogany wood block flooring and space for a generous sized hall stand and side table. A door to the left leads towards the kitchen and main living rooms.

The SITTING ROOM has full height double glass doors with views over the beautifully designed gardens and orchard: the doors are often opened on warm evenings to take full advantage of the setting sun. Vaulted ceilings with ornate wooden details only add character to the room and a cosy wood burner adds warmth on cooler evenings.

The KITCHEN sits at the heart of the house: a practical space with a central AGA™ within a custom-built brick surround along with a full range of solid wood wall and base cupboards. A large double sink sits below a window overlooking the gardens, and further features include a gas hob, integrated electric NEFF™ oven and plumbing for a dishwasher.

Double doors open to a CONSERVATORY, with space for dining and views of the gardens; it creates a wonderful place for evening suppers as the sun is setting. From the kitchen, wide glass doors lead to a half landing and wooden staircase leading to a GARDEN ROOM with tiled flooring, indoor planting and full height double glass doors which lead out to a large, circular, stone paved veranda, with glorious views across a well-maintained lawn, small orchard, and up to Friar Waddon Hill.

From the Garden Room, a further door leads to BEDROOM 3 referred to as the `Cabin`, with built-in wooden sailing ship style bunk beds with under bed storage and a workstation. A delightful bedroom or study, and especially engaging for young children or grandchildren.

On a practical note, a further door from the Entrance Hall leads to an INNER HALL with a range of fitted hand-built solid wood cupboards replete with wooden shelves. A further door leads to the gardens and a large PANTRY with further shelving and a window. Opposite the pantry is the CLOAKROOM with a vanity unit with basin. and W.C. The UTILITY ROOM has further built-in-cupboards, single sink and fitted water softener along with plumbing for a washing machine and dryer and new oil-fired central heating boiler.


Stairs lead up to a half landing and a wonderful open plan STUDY with a vaulted ceiling and a collection of well-designed hand-built furniture pieces and central desk.

Further stairs lead up to a higher LANDING and the PRINCIPAL BEDROOM: a generous room with further vaulted ceiling and space for a king size bed. The views and sense of light are magnified by the wall of windows which overlook the large gardens. Plentiful storage is provided by built-in wardrobes with shelves, pull-out drawers and separate sections for shirts and dresses. There is also further under eaves storage space. The ENSUITE SHOWER ROOM has elegant tiling and a built-in double shower, twin basin vanity unit, back-lit vanity mirror and W.C. as well as a Velux™ roof window. BEDROOM 2 is a double room with more under eaves storage and views from the window. Concluding the accommodation, the second generous BATHROOM has a panelled bath with shower over, low level W.C. and vanity unit with basin.

Outside
In total the plot measures just under an acre and, as you pass through the garden gates leading toward the front door, you are captivated by the tranquillity of the setting, and glimpses of a wonderful Italian-style tiered garden. Just to the left of the front door, is a rockery with a water feature, which was built using rocks excavated when foundations for the house were laid.

A smaller side gate allows direct access to the front of the property. Paving continues along the NE edge of the garden, incorporating a stunning handcrafted pavement using architectural salvaged materials. Bird feeding stations have been established here attracting a wide range of familiar garden birds and the more elusive nuthatch.

A large WORKSHOP features a work bench, lathes and shelf storage and a HOT TUB is positioned at the front. TWO FURTHER OUTBUILDINGS comprise a log store, storage unit for garden furniture and bottled gas. There is additional undercover storage creating a discreet area for waste bins, and an outdoor sink.

The large gardens incorporate a stone wall with striking buttresses, which separates the lower level. When standing on the upper level it gives the illusion of a rolling lawn. The terrace immediately abutting the house has been laid to stone and has beautifully weathered over the passing years. The family have enjoyed many weddings and celebrations with a large marquee hosting up to 120 guests.

The family have engaged a gardening contractor who pays regular maintenance visits making use of the OUTBUILDING with storage for ride-on lawn mowers. There is also a large DOUBLE GARAGE with electric up and over doors, wall cupboards and space for freezer units.

Location
The property is nestled quietly within this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the vale of the Dorset Ridgeway. The River Wey meanders gently through this picturesque village, most well-known for the romantic setting of Upwey Wishing Well at The Springhead, a favourite place of King George III.

Whilst enjoying 'village living', it is also a practical location within close proximity of the wide-ranging facilities of the seaside resort of Weymouth and the county town of Dorchester (4 miles in either direction). Weymouth, Dorchester and Upwey itself all have stations on the main line to London Waterloo. There is also a regular bus service locally, and a popular public house, 'The Old Ship Inn'.

Directions
Use what3words.com to accurately navigate to the exact spot. Search using these three words:
dabble.fishnet.duty