1960s Templemere Estate Span House in Weybridge, Surrey

Always popular, so it is worth talking about this newly-listed 1960s Templemere Estate Span House in Weybridge, Surrey.

In fact, I featured this one way back in 2019, when the present owners spotted it on the site and bought it. Fast forward a few years, and it is back on the market, looking much better than it did when it last went up for sale. I think I described it back then as well-maintained but showing its age.

Whatever the condition, Span properties are always popular, and this particular Span estate is probably the most popular of all.

The Templemere Estate, dates from 1963 and very much defines what a Span Estate is all about in terms of the open space and layout. The site covers 12 acres, which is shared between the 65 houses on the site. You would never get this kind of space in a contemporary development, which is a real shame. But it adds to the appeal of Templemere and, of course, the value too.

Landscaped gardens surround the houses, as do communal lawns, some woodland and some of Henry VIII’s Broadwater Lake. It also happens to be in a catchment for a good school, too, should that be top of your list of requirements.

But you’ll probably be buying it for the house rather than the schools on your doorstep, especially as the Templemere Estate is something of a departure for the company. Angular, heavily glazed and fairly open-plan. Very 1960s, but also very now.

Of course, the architecture remains unchanged from the original era, but the interior has undergone some work – and fairly recently – by the current owners and a local architect, who have renovated to a high standard and in keeping with the Span ethos.

Last time out, I couldn’t see any obvious original details in place, with the exception of the architecture and general layout. So nothing has been lost. But something has been gained. Previously I noted carpets throughout and bemoaned a lack of a wooden floor. There is one now, lifting the interior considerably.

Other work undertaken includes upgraded windows (with solar glass to the rear), an eco-friendly air source heat pump fitted, new insulation, a new heating system with thermostats in each room, a full re-wire, plus a new bespoke oak staircase with integrated lighting.

Cosmetic updates, too, of course, and whilst being fairly contemporary, there’s a subtle retro/midcentury modern vibe going on too, which is perfect for the house. You could probably turn that up a notch, too, with your own fixtures and furnishings.

Plenty of space here as well, which isn’t something I say about a lot of Span houses and a lot of attention has been given to functionality too. I don’t think you’ll find more storage options in a comparably sized house.

I’m a fan of the reception space in these houses, both because of the use of angles and the full-height glazing. Plenty of natural light here, as well as some great views over the communal grounds.

The front reception has sliding doors to the dining room, which means potential for a large entertaining space. Also, beyond the living room is a sizeable study.

The recently-fitted (or upgraded) kitchen is also on the ground floor, which is as high-end as you would hope and expect, with all the integration you would hope for too.

Head up the stairs, and you will find four bedrooms, all sharing the family bathroom. There’s also a small cloakroom on the ground floor too.

As I said, Span is all about the outside space as well as the inside layout. In the case of this house, you get your own garage and a private landscaped garden. But it’s the communal space that is the pull.

Residents’ parking is provided around the development amongst the grounds, and the 12 acres of grounds are yours to enjoy. There is a maintenance cost for that, but it is unlikely to break the bank.

Talking of money, this one is just on the market, with an asking price of £1,100,000.
Images and details courtesy of Martin Flashman and Co. For more details and to make an enquiry, please visit the website.
Ken Davidson on 3 November, 2022 3:27 pm
Speaking as someone who grew up believing we’d all be living in some kind of Brutalist/Modernist utopia by now, I do appreciate your marvellous newsletters. But I fear I may have to unsubscribe. Why? I can’t bl**dy well afford any of these gaffs, and ignorance may well be bliss! 😉