FIRST impressions of North Farm House suggest memories of a Dickensian Christmas, with chestnuts roasting on an open fire as the snow falls outside. Built in the 1870s, the cosy property is a former farmhouse. However, owner Ann Nunn, 52, says it has undergone extensive refurbishment since she bought it 14 years ago.
She has created a modern, comfortable family home for herself and son Joshua, 17. She is clearly proud of her efforts, explaining a recent conversation with a friend of her son. “We were discussing the move and he told me he really liked the house,” she said. “As he put it, it’s modern, but maintains the original fabric. I thought that was excellent coming from a 17-year-old boy!” The four-bedroom home has a living room, sitting room, breakfasting kitchen, conservatory, utility room and shower room on the ground floor. Upstairs are four double bedrooms and a family bathroom. It has maintained many original features, such as the high ceilings, doors and fireplaces. There is also a garage and driveway. The potential for renovation was a major draw when Ann bought the house, but she is keen to emphasise that there is still much that can be done with the property. “It’s a very homely, family home,” she explained. “But there’s still room for the new owner to make their mark. The loft space, for instance, is massive.” The garden was also in need of development when Ann moved in. “As I look out of the window I think that everything I can see, I planted,” she explained. It has a semi-rural location, with nearby Chopwell Woods providing substantial peace and quiet. Access to local commuter hubs is provided by the nearby A1 and Ann can get to the Metrocentre in 15 minutes. The property also has an annex. With a kitchenette and bathroom, it has the potential to serve a variety of purposes. Used as an office by the previous owner, Ann converted it into a playroom then gym before transforming it into a music room for Josh and his friends to play their guitars. Ann admits to having mixed feelings about leaving. However, with Josh leaving for university in September, she recognises the need to downsize. “There’s no point in me rattling around a house this size on my own,” she said. North Farm House, 4 The Paddock, High Spen, near Rowlands Gill, Tyne and Wear is for sale through Halifax at £350,000, tel: 01207 544498. | 
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