Lords of manor put their home on the market

Chris and Janet Lord didn’t just buy the home they live in – they had a hand in its design and watched their dream property being built in true Grand Designs style.

They are now looking to downsize and move further into the country and have made their home for sale through Shortland Horne’s Premier & County Homes division for £995,000.

“We moved here in 1984,” said Chris. “We knew the type of property we wanted and the location we wanted to live in but there was nothing really available.

“This plot was on the market as part of a deal with the neighbouring house. Originally it couldn’t be bought separately but we made a few enquiries with contacts and managed to purchase the land.

“I had some experience as a draftsman so I drew the kind of property we were looking to build here and the architect followed that design very carefully. We then watched as it took shape. We pushed our budget to the limit by, for example, having all the bricks handmade and having larger windows because we knew that would add to the feel of the property.”

The project paid-off and the property – named Squirrel Trace because of the number of squirrels which can be spotted nearby – sits within immaculate of grounds of almost an acre.

The beautiful gardens are also regularly visited by deer, foxes, owls, woodpecker and herons among other wildlife.

Chris said: “We like to look out all the time so the dining room was designed with that in mind. We very often see young foxes or deer out in the garden.”

The property has four bedrooms – one with en-suite bathroom – and there is planning permission for a further two bedrooms to be added. On the ground floor, there is plenty of space with a sitting room, study, dining room, morning room, utility room, conservatory and a luxury, bespoke, fitted kitchen with solid granite worktops.

“It’s been a really difficult decision to move,” said Chris. “We absolutely love it here and that’s why we have been here for nearly 30 years.

“I grew up in Wyken and Janet grew up in Coundon. The Kenilworth Road is where many people aspire to live in Coventry and it’s understandable.

“It’s very much like living in the country but you have also got the city on your doorstep too.”

Externally, as well as the fantastic rear gardens, the property benefits from a sweeping front driveway with ample parking and a double garage.

Andrew Moss, director of Shortland Horne, said: “This is a beautiful home both internally and externally and we are anticipating very strong interest.

“Mr and Mrs Lord have created and kept a fantastic home over the years and someone else is now going to reap the benefit of that.”

For more information, log onto www.shortlandhorne.co.uk or call 0843 3090182.

Pictured: The Lords’ home in Kenilworth Road.