Fine & Country Feature Property - Converted School Home

May 2007

With stunning views over the River Wharfe, this converted school is a home with the wow factor. Behind a gated entrance, the development between Leeds and Harrogate, has the Yorkshire countryside on its doorstep.

“For me, living here is like being permanently on holiday,” says Philip Drazen, the current owner of Bridge House. “I come home from work, sit on the balcony, have a glass of wine and just enjoy the most amazing view over the weir. At certain times of the year we see heron walking across the weir or trout jumping up, it’s a great way to unwind and relax.”

Philip’s home is the largest apartment in the development which was previously a boarding school. “And there’s been no compromise on space here,” he says. “I moved from a five-bedroomed detached house and I haven’t had to give up any room. In fact, as this is part of very large building you get an extra feeling of space that you don’t get in an individual house. I’ve had parties for around 180 people and there’s still been lots of room. In the living room alone I’ve had 65 people seated for dinner – I hired in extra tables and had them stretched down the middle of the room, it looked fabulous!”

The history of the building can be felt in its thick walls and high ceilings, but this home offers much, much more. “The whole place has been interior designed,” explains Philip, “giving it a real feeling of quality and luxury. As you enter there’s the most stunning Travertine flooring which looks amazing and the finishes and the furnishings are all top quality. For me it means the place is somewhere you can come home to and relax – you don’t have to worry about repairs or decoration - this is a home to enjoy, not in which to work hard!”

 

There are only 16 properties in the whole development which was converted in 1996.  The homes share stunning grounds including gardens and an orchard. “One of the things that most appealed to me was the security,” says Philip. “There’s a remote controlled gated entrance which leads onto a lovely courtyard with a fountain.  Then there are remote controlled gates into the garage area and another controlled entrance to get into the building. It adds a real feeling of comfort and safety. Add to that the fact that the grounds are all beautifully maintained and you know it’s going to look great every time you come home!”

The property is in the village of Harewood and includes the Queen’s cousin, who lives at Harewood House, as one of its neighbours. Just four miles away is the stunning spa town of Harrogate which has great shopping and leisure facilities.  Wetherby is around 5 miles away and Leeds is 14 miles. “Harrogate has some great boutique shops,” says Philip, “and Leeds has the wonderful Harvey Nichols store.  They’ve both got fantastic restaurants as have many of the villages around here – so you’ll never go hungry!”

So for Philip, this home has had the perfect mix of luxury, convenience and a beautiful setting. “This property just lends itself to a quality lifestyle,” he says. “But the space and the design just make it so easy.  Then, when I open the window all I can hear is the sound of flowing water.  The children and I are able to simply throw on our wellies and go straight out for a walk along the river – our own personal countryside.”

To view the full sales particulars for the property please click here.