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For the first time in 45 years, Charters, an extraordinary Grade
II listed mansion house in Sunninghill that was used as a country
bolthole by the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, is opening its doors to
potential residents, providing a unique opportunity for buyers.
Art Deco, post-Modernist, Vogue Regency – however you describe it,
Charters is an arresting building with a uniquely powerful aura. The
mansion house has a fascinating history, yet for generations few
have been aware of its existence. Completed in 1938 for rich
industrialist Frank Parkinson, Charters was described as the last
great country house to be built in England. Since 1959, however,
Charters has been a top-secret centre for research and industry, as
the headquarters for first Vickers and then later De Beers,
effectively wiping it off the Berkshire map.
Today Charters’ fate is changing as historic buildings specialist,
Sabre Developments, has negotiated the complex planning consents
required to return the estate to residential use. Set amid 25 acres
of secluded parkland and mature gardens, 39 sumptuous apartments are
being developed, at prices which range from £1m to £3m, with
completion scheduled for 18 months’ time.
The main building has soaring rectangular windows, brick walls clad
in gleaming Portland stone and a double-height great hall. For its
day, Charters was years ahead of its time in technology, with an
array of sophisticated heating, ventilation and labour-saving
devices, including the first known domestic air-conditioning system.
The interiors, however, gave way to a mix of traditional styles –
Queen Anne, early Georgian and Louis XVI – many features of which
will be retained in the renovation.
Seven grand apartments are being crafted from the original Art Deco
residence, to be known as the Mansion House. Here the newly restored
double-height great hall and atrium will be a reception area for use
by all the owners. Most of the apartments will retain their original
Art Deco features, spectacularly married with modern state of the
art technology. The two new blocks, The Court and The Garden House,
are designed in a style reminiscent of the original Mansion House.
Each provides another 16 apartments, with underground car parking.
Alongside these, the immaculate Charters spa boasts top-class
facilities including a heated 50ft swimming pool, sauna, gym,
treatment rooms and billiards room.
John Morris, Principal at Sabre Developments says: “Projects as
exceptional as Charters are few and far between: together we are
working to make it the finest mansion house conversion in Berkshire
and one of the country’s leading residences.”
When complete, a full range of five-star concierge and lifestyle
services will be on hand to residents twenty-four hours a day,
ensuring Charters offers the style, security and luxury service
associated with bygone living.
For further information visit
www.chartersuk.com
For residential sales enquiries contact Savills on 01344 295375
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