This elegant six-bedroom house sits in an elevated position on a peaceful street in central Tunbridge Wells. Extending to over 3,000 sq ft internally, it has been sensitively renovated by its current owners, who have curated an infectious palette of colour, pattern and texture throughout, resulting in a sequence of considered and joyful living spaces. The terraced garden is a tranquil, flexible space with two studios amid a spritely offering of fruit trees.

Setting the Scene

Royal Tunbridge Wells has long been a popular spot in the south-east. Its origins lie in the 17th century, when it became a spa town following Lord North's discovery of the Chalybeate Spring in 1606. The town expanded from the Pantiles, a beautiful part with much of its arresting historic architecture still in situ. Popular with royalty, it was given the 'Royal' prefix at the start of the 20th century.

This handsome house is within walking distance of some of the town’s best-loved bars and restaurants. It is also well-connected for exploring the rest of the High Weald National Landscape, and is within easy commuting distance of London via High Brooms and Tunbridge Wells stations. Inside, contemporary interventions are sensitive, honouring the original and grand fabric of the building.

The Grand Tour

Entry to the house is via a short flight of limestone steps and through an original glazed front door flanked by stained-glass transoms. At the rear of the hall, a large dining area is met with expansive aluminium-framed bifold glazed doors that open entirely, fostering a dialogue with the richly planted garden. An original, working fireplace faces the dining area, while ornate cornicing traces around the perimeter of the ceiling.

On one side, a contemporary angular aperture leads to the kitchen. Here, bold yellow Corian work surfaces rest atop a bespoke Kutchenhaus kitchen complete with AEG appliances including double-stacked electric ovens, an induction hob, one of two integrated dishwashers and a large integrated fridge-freezer with a separate wine fridge. 'Lamp Black' woodwork from Little Greene creates a vivid contrast against 'Mister David' yellow walls. A floor hatch steps down to a full, head-height cellar.

The snug is oriented around a working fireplace with a richly veined original terracotta marble surround. Wallpaper from Osborne & Little adds texture, while dual apertures on either side of the chimney breast allow seamless, circular flow into a grand living room with a large south-facing bay window. A second beautiful fireplace here acts as a visual anchor.

Upstairs are six bedrooms and a study. The principal bedroom features Cole & Son 'Cow Parsley' wallpaper, is flooded with natural light, and has a spacious en suite with a freestanding bathtub, a walk-in shower and Burlington fixtures. There are two additional double bedrooms on this floor, along with a red metro-tiled shower room cum utility room. On the second floor are three further double rooms, each with a sense of seclusion, as well as a further shower/bathroom with a simple monochromatic scheme. The house and studios are connected throughout with smart Hue lighting systems and Hive thermostatic controls.