Juniper House is a secluded farmhouse near Toot Baldon, a tiny hamlet close to Marsh Baldon, one of Oxfordshire’s most desirable villages. This rare find is surrounded by open fields and part of this thriving rural community, famous for its good primary school, cricket pitch and the popular Mole Inn.
The house was constructed around 40 years ago by Queens College as the farmhouse to its adjacent farm. The College separated the two some years ago and kept the farm, preserving its secluded, natural environment. “It really is very peaceful here and there are many lovely walks, right from outside the gate,” says Professor Avis, who owns the house with his wife. Both are retired academics and are now moving to downsize.
When built, Juniper House was a contemporary house ahead of its time. The ground floor has large open living spaces with lots of light and there are four bedrooms, three of them doubles. The Avis’ have added a south-facing conservatory and larger, double-glazed windows, enhancing its style and spaciousness, and making the most of the country views. The ground floor also contains an annexe, which is currently separate accommodation but could easily become an office or a studio, and there is also a double garage. “The house is very flexible,” he adds, “both my wife and I have worked from home in the past, and it a very pleasant working environment. We are also just fifteen minutes from Oxford by car.”
Being centrally positioned in two thirds of an acre plot gives Juniper House significant potential for expansion or redevelopment. The gardens are laid out very naturally, with lawns adorned with mature trees such as silver birch, willow, apple and plum, and the property is surrounded by open fields on three sides. “It is a house that’s very much in touch with its garden and its surroundings,” says Professor Avis.
Juniper House is on the market with offers in excess of £625,000 invited. To arrange a viewing contact Mark Charter on 01865 511444 or visit www.carterjonas.co.uk.
