WowHaus

A lot of work required, but this 1930s renovation project in Torquay, Devon might be worth it in the long run.

I am not sure of the style of this one. The agent mentions ‘hints of art deco influence’ but that isn’t really jumping out at me too much. I guess a touch, but this is a little more mainstream and more classical/colonial too. But interesting nonetheless.

Interesting because this substantial house has been pretty much left to its own devices for some time judging by the interior. I also wonder what it was in the past. Has it always been a house or was it a hotel or home in the more recent past? Perhaps someone with local knowledge can let me know.

What I do know is that someone will need to invest significantly to bring the house back to its best. That’s on top of an asking price that isn’t exactly modest. Nor would it be with a house of this size, complete with land and a wonderful location.

But even in the current state, I can imagine the house being something special with some work. As I said, the location is fantastic, sitting high on a large plot and with some stunning views from the house and grounds.

The house itself is rather grand too. Its angular shape, the steps and verandah, the sunroom and the windows. The basics are all in place, in need of a freshen up.

But the interior might need more than that. Not as many shots as I would like, but I can see rooms looking more 1960s than 1930s, although there seem to be some original touches still in place. What looks like original kitchen storage, for example.

Elsewhere, Finishes are dated, damp is creeping in and the house looks like a place that has long since seen habitation. Which is a shame as it could and should be something special.

Space is obviously a selling point too. The accommodation is made up of two reception rooms, the garden room, a kitchen, scullery, storerooms, five bedrooms, a bathroom and a cloakroom. I would guess someone would need to tweak that for a modern-day family home. Note that there are garages beneath the house too.

The gardens are principally laid to lawn and substantial too. There’s a good reason why benches are there – the views from the garden look incredible.

As for the price, that is £800,000. As I said, not cheap to start with and before you add in the renovation costs. But this could be a once in a lifetime home for someone.

Images and details courtesy of John Couch. For more details and to make an enquiry, please visit the website.

Thanks to Mary for the tip-off.