Marley Lane, Marley Lane

Once an unassuming granary is now a stunning home set amongst a series of luxury homes in the pretty village of Finglesham. The property is approached via a quiet country lane leading to a private driveway. There is bucolic vibe but once inside you feel like you have stepped into the pages of Living Etc. The extensive architectural remodelling of the barn has been superbly executed and the current owners have created a calming and light interior by embracing the rural setting, using local materials and celebrating the original timbers and character of the barn.

Finglesham Barn reinterprets the traditional idea of a barn conversion with a sophisticated modern aesthetic akin to an art gallery mixed with a boutique hotel. There are large open living spaces juxtaposed with intimate rooms, which creates an interest at every moment. A large entrance hall is set up as a dining space that makes you want to host a family supper and invite friends in. The vast living room is flooded with natural light and the kitchen is a modern space for a discerning home cook.

The highlight for us is the generously proportioned living space that is predominantly open plan allowing for flexibility. We can imagine children playing at one end of the space whilst adults converse at the other - together but independent. A large kitchen with dramatic double height ceiling feels like a room for mornings. There is light and space, an island to sit at and eat cereal and drink coffee. The snug, off the kitchen, is the most used room of the home and can be set up as an office, reading room or even a guest bedroom should you require it on the many occasions that you will have guests.

As well as style, there is purpose to this property. The large utility area has a cloakroom, storage and room for washing the dogs. The upper floor of the house provides four large bedrooms all with their own character but all with a gentle nod to the original life of the barn. The different heights of the windows, exposed beams and stunning countryside views make the bedrooms calm sleeping spaces. The neutral colouring and soft flooring underfoot provide a quiet and sophisticated aesthetic. This chic, modern interior continues through to the family bathroom with metro tiles and clean sharp lines.

Externally there is a private garden with lawned areas, storage and work space and neat beds. There is a car barn and a private driveway for several cars.

• Three words :  Stunning. Barn. Conversion.