An interview with a vendor – The Stables Courtyard

Simon Stone

After almost 30 years, The Stables Courtyard has been a much loved home, base and workspace for the vendor, JM. He chose the property for its multi-faceted uses, beauty and above all, history, and as a former husky dog racer, professional racing driver and now web developer, JM describes in his own words, what originally attracted the property to him all those years ago…

What drew you to the property in the first place?

We were drawn to this home because of the location and the space it offered. The 1 acre garden was perfect for us and our husky dogs of course, believe it or not. I was a champion husky dog racer back then. True story! Additionally, the property’s location, surrounded by fields and woods, provided a beautiful, secret glade like environment, while still being within easy reach of London by road and rail. In fact the rail links have only gotten better (not often you can say that). Potters Bar to Kings Cross only takes 16 mins now!

Did you have specific needs around things like accommodation, location, outdoor space? How did it answer them?

Our main requirements were a unique cool property, room to expand and make it our own. External barns for secure parking and storage (and development), plenty of space and a location that offered both natural surroundings and convenient access to London. This property perfectly met those needs with its large garden, beautiful surrounding fields and woods in a private 4000 acres estate and easy road and rail connections to the city.

Have you made any improvements, alterations or extensions?

Yes, we have made significant improvements to the property. We replaced all the old wiring and heating systems with modern, energy-efficient systems. Recently, we installed the EvoHome heating system, which has transformed the house by improving efficiency and reducing our energy bills. We also upgraded to double and triple glazing throughout the house and added extensive home insulation, which has greatly enhanced comfort and energy savings.In addition to these upgrades, we renovated two bathrooms and installed underfloor heating, a feature I had always wanted. We also reconfigured some of the bedrooms to create more space, including a gym and an office, which can easily be converted back to bedrooms if needed. The house’s design has always allowed for easy changes and modifications without requiring major structural alterations. A new owner could take their time in making their own changes to suit their lifestyle, thanks to the flexibility and adaptability of the property.

Do you have one or more favourite corners, rooms, outlooks or features?

The living room is a fantastic space and one of our absolute favourites. It’s a double vaulted ceiling and a mezzanine split level room. It’s perfect for chilling and relaxing. In the summer, we open the double doors to extend our living space into the garden. In the winter, the open fire creates a super cozy atmosphere, making it the ideal spot to unwind and enjoy the warmth. The room truly embodies the charm and comfort of our home.

Additionally, we have loved the amazing and diverse wildlife that we get to experience in our garden. Every summer, migrating swallows return, and ducks nest in the garden, leading their ducklings away in the spring. Magnificent birds of prey, including red kites, buzzards, owls, and peregrine falcons. We even have a family of foxes that make their nightly appearances with their cubs. The wildlife here has been a fantastic and enchanting part of our living experience, adding to the unique charm of our home.

Does your work affect how you use the property or how you relate to it?

The property serves as a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of life. It has been an ideal space for me to relax and work from home (even though it feels like we’re in the wilderness a 1GB broadband connection means we’re super connected). It’s an incredibly safe and peaceful environment that has been a fundamental part of our health and wellbeing.

Any favourite memories from your time here?

Some of our favourite memories from our time in this property involve entertaining friends. Whether it’s enjoying BBQs in the summer or hosting fun and fantastic dinner parties in the winter, the home has always exuded a warm, welcoming, and friendly atmosphere. Everyone who visits loves spending time here, and we have cherished every moment of laughter and joy shared with our loved ones. This home has been a perfect backdrop for creating unforgettable memories with friends and family.

What will you miss the most?

We will miss everything about this property! After many years of loving our home, it is time for a new chapter in our lives with a move to Spain. This home has provided us with countless wonderful memories and experiences, from the wonderful outdoor space to the cozy living and the chilled zen like atmosphere. While we are excited about our new adventure, we will always hold a special place in our hearts for this beloved home.

About the Author

Simon Stone

Simon Stone has been an estate agent for nearly 30 years. He began his career in South East London, then spent 18 years at the heart of the emerging Shoreditch market, selling countless lofts and warehouse apartments and building a substantial client base. He co-founded the successful estate agency Davey Stone, with branches in Shoreditch, Brick Lane and Broadway Market, which was acquired in March 2016. His continued passion for distinctive property and interiors now rests firmly with Unique Property Company. Outside of work, you’ll find him trawling travel websites and blogs, or exploring The South Bank with his wife and three children — a journey that always ends at Borough Market.