Sondes Place, a striking mansion in Dorking, was originally designed by the great Thomas Cubitt of Eaton Square fame, set in a commanding location overlooking the Surrey Hills but within easy striking distance of London high society. The family-sized stuccoed pile understandably attracted a well to do international set. After a few tenancies, it was bought by the Cartier family (the jewellers) in 1929, with Census records, indicating it was home to ‘Miss Cartier’ and was later occupied by an Indian Maharaja who was attending the Silver Jubilee of King George V in 1935.
During the Second World War, the house was used as an officers’ training centre and thereafter turned into offices for a Japanese banknote printer. Eventually, the property fell out of use and into neglect. Sondes Place has now been sensitively converted into six new remarkable properties by award-winning developer Twist Homes. Designed to appeal to the more discerning homeowner and for those who appreciate outstanding attention to detail and lavish build specification for which the developer, Twist, is renowned.
Designs by the New Holland Architects have taken a sympathetic approach to the restoration of the original building and have not skimped on contemporary touches to deliver bright, airy spaces. All of the properties have retained the high ceilings and ubiquitous sense of grandeur derived from the original mansion. They are individual in character and are all equally served by the reinstated historic features. Interiors feature hardwood Parquet oak herringbone floors with underfloor heating, contemporary, high-quality Italian Kitchen units with integrated Miele and Siemens kitchenalia and a unique sliding island top. Built-in Italian walnut-lined wardrobes in the bedrooms and high quality Italian white sanitaryware with Hansgrohe bathroom fittings complete the polished finish.
With its elevated position and stunning views, Sondes Place is the perfect location for those who value the opportunity to live in a unique ‘Cubitt’ mansion in this exclusive part of Surrey. It offers the beauty, tranquillity and privacy of the Surrey Hills yet is just a short walk from the bustling high street and cultural delights of Dorking, including Sorrell, Steve Drakes’s new modern fine dining Michelin starred restaurant. The motorway network is within easy reach, as is Dorking train station with trains to London Waterloo in less than an hour.
Set within landscaped gardens, residences in the converted mansion all benefit from outside space. Only two properties remain priced at £1.75 million.