18th-Century Manor House Worth $4 Million in the U.K. Attracts Various Artists
Historic Leacon Hall and Modern Indigo at Vie L'Ven Offer a Blend of Old and New
Two unique properties, each steeped in history and charm, are making headlines in the world of luxury real estate.
In Kent, England, Leacon Hall - an 18th-century Queen Anne estate built in 1708 by Thomas Kenneth Hodges - stands as an "almost perfect" example of Queen Anne architecture, as described by architectural historian Sir Nikolaus Pevsner. This Grade II* listed property retains much of its original period features, including high ceilings, painted panelled doors with deep architraves, brass door furniture, sash windows with working shutters, working fireplaces, exposed wood flooring, raised and fielded panelling, dado rails, and period-style cast iron radiators.
Notable historical and cultural connections add to Leacon Hall’s prestige. It was once the home of Sir John Millais, the grandson of John Everett Millais, the Pre-Raphaelite painter. During World War II, Lady Millais refused to let the British Army requisition the house, thus saving its interiors from destruction. The estate also boasts connections to renowned author Joseph Conrad, who is believed to have been a guest at the Leacon Hall in the early 1900s.
Leacon Hall features a grand reception hall with original Queen Anne panelling and a working corner fireplace. The first floor houses a teal-panelled drawing room, a principal suite with dressing room and bathroom, plus two ensuite bedrooms. The top floor offers five more bedrooms and a family bathroom, all maintaining period details. The property also includes two separate dwellings: The Oast and The Lodge. The Oast features a roundel sitting room and three bedrooms, while The Lodge, a converted farm building, offers underfloor heating and tons of charm.
Though subtly modernized for contemporary comfort, Leacon Hall effectively balances historic character with modern living standards. The estate was listed around £2.95 million (approximately $4 million).
Meanwhile, on the shores of Indigo Bay in Sint Maarten, The Indigo at Vie L'Ven offers a contrasting yet equally appealing experience. As an oceanfront residence, The Indigo at Vie L'Ven boasts over 12 acres of landscaped gardens and grounds. The property is priced at $2,724,800 USD, making it a more affordable option for those seeking a slice of luxury living.
Both dwellings, Leacon Hall and The Indigo at Vie L'Ven, have been transformed into successful vacation rentals, offering guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in history and luxury.
Another featured listing in the luxury real estate market is A Car Collector's Dream Home in Vail, CO, priced at $27,000,000 USD. This property offers a different kind of charm, catering to car enthusiasts with its expansive collection of automobiles.
In summary, Leacon Hall and The Indigo at Vie L'Ven stand out for their remarkable architectural integrity and historical significance, offering a blend of old and new for those seeking a unique luxury experience.
In addition to Leacon Hall, The Indigo at Vie L'Ven offers a different luxury experience, boasting a fusion of fashion-and-beauty and home-and-garden elements with its 12-acre landscaped grounds. The modern Indigo at Vie L'Ven, contrasting with the historic Leacon Hall, provides an affordable slice of luxury living, priced at $2,724,800 USD.
