CHANGE OF DIRECTION
A search for a low maintenance new build took a speedy U-turn when Ben and Amanda Rendell stumbled across a renovation opportunity
WORDS & AMANDA TURNER
The vertical windows on either side of the door allow light to flood into the hall, keeping things bright and airy
Ben and Amanda Rendell were within days of exchanging on a new three-bedroom house, when a chance glance at the property section of the local paper stopped them in their tracks. For a similar price, a larger 1950s dwelling, just a stone’s throw away had come on the market with plenty of potential for development. “We realised we really wanted a space we could mould and adapt into our long term family home,” says Ben.
When the couple went to view the house, they discovered that the owners had just been let down by their buyer and had already committed to a property purchase in Devon. there and then they were given the opportunity to buy it, as long as they could exchange and complete within two weeks. Having recently sold a business, Ben and Amanda had the cash available and a sale was agreed. the building itself was liveable, but was in need of updating. It had been extended several times with various flat roof additions creating a series of small and badly shaped rooms. Outside, the Rendells wanted to address the pebbledash render, brown windows, a dated porch and an adjoining garage that took up unnecessary space.