House For Sale £995,000
Introducing a truly exceptional property, The Old Post Office, a harmonious blend of history and contemporary luxury. Originally built in 1790 as Gurney Bank and later transformed into the National Post Office, this iconic building now offers an unrivaled living experience. The interiors are a symphony of different periods and styles, creating a haven for every family member and guest. Stepping into the entrance hall, you'll be captivated by the sacred atmosphere inspired by Italian church interiors. The spacious lounge and drawing room, adorned with designer furnishings, set the stage for relaxation and opulence. The kitchen, scullery, pantry, and larder form a culinary haven, while the rear hall exudes Art Deco elegance.
As you ascend the wrought iron balustrades of the Georgian-style staircase, you'll discover the Galleried Library, an intimate space perfect for gatherings. The Waveney Room beckons with themes of the surrounding valley, complemented by an ensuite. The Hammam Sauna offers relaxation in the former bank vault, and the luxurious Gurney Room boasts a gold leather and chrome designer four-poster bed.
The Shakespeare Room exudes romance with French-inspired decor, and the second-floor landing embraces a New York Loft vibe. The Coffee Gallery offers tropical vistas, while the top floor unveils a master suite with a dressing room and ensuite bathroom, complete with rose gold accents and a jet bath.
Currently running as both a residential home and luxury Guest House & Day Spa. This a great opportunity to purchase a successful business with a high social media presence and media press coverage or to enjoy an impressive entertainment home or second-holiday property. With its rich history and meticulous design, The Old Post Office presents an unparalleled opportunity to acquire a one-of-a-kind property.
LOCATION Lots of nearby activities including fishing lakes, the only camel safari in the UK, vineyard wine tours, canoeing, horse riding in the woods, picnic on the beach, castles, stately homes and more.
HISTORY OF THE OLD POST OFFICE Built in 1790 as Gurney Bank, the building became the National Post Office in 1896 when Gurney's along with other prominent Quaker Banking families merged to become Barclays Bank. After various commercial incarnations, this is the first time the house has been converted into a house in it's 230 year history.
Designing the interiors of The Old Post Office has become a symphony of different periods, moods and styles - making it a happy haven for every family member and guest.
ENTRANCE HALL In this part of the house, the owner was compelled to create something that felt like a sacred space. The stone floor, arches and lighting are designed in the light of the interiors of the churches in Italy. Ceiling roses have been added and picture lamps frame the antique 19th Holy Family print discovered from a Catholic Convent. The handmade plaster cherubs are from the monastery of St Francis of Assisi, Italy.
LOUNGE 17' 10" x 16' 1" (5.44m x 4.9m) The arches were filled in to close up the room, the removed door frame replaced and the fireplace opened up with a new fire surround and log burner. The original shutters were bolted in metal which were carefully removed and the wood painstakingly restored. The room is furnished with modern and quirky Timothy Alton and Andrew Martin designer furnishings and prints, vintage pieces and Louis De Poorter rug.
Enjoying the natural light that's playing in this corner of the house. A versatile space with a high Georgian ceilings and great big sash windows.
DRAWING ROOM 19' 10" x 17' 2" (6.05m x 5.23m) Features an original chandelier from The Savoy London. With high ceilings and original picture rail, this is the largest of the reception rooms. Optional purchases include 1920s ebony Baby Grand Piano, and 1900s Chinoiserie three seater ebony Bergere suite and an Art Deco chaise, originally belonging to Tom Ford of Gucci. Includes antique paintings and display furniture.
DINING ROOM 17' 11" x 12' 4" (5.46m x 3.76m) The wallpaper is Strawberry Thief in Chocolate. It takes as it's subject the thrushes that Morris found stealing fruit in the garden of his countryside home. The room has been accessorized with hand embroidered pictures and vintage Mason's crockery. The chairs are antique rush spindle chairs and the large table made bespoke with red legs. Seating up to 12 people with Bluetooth ceiling speakers and a range of lighting for added ambience, the original wooden shutters which were restored close for privacy.
KITCHEN 17' 5 max" x 15' 11 max" (5.31m x 4.85m) Scullery, pantry and larder are sometimes used interchangeably and making a comeback into homes, not just reserved to stately houses. The kitchen has been designed into working sections, the island with vegetable sink, chopping area and hidden bin; scullery with double butler sink, Chefs tap and dishwasher which are tucked away in the corner, so this messy area is hidden away from first sight. The pantry and larder are now in what were originally the ground floor bank vaults.
The large Georgian sash window allows floods of light into the kitchen, making this an inviting room. The colour gradually changes with the sun during the day from a grey blue to cool blue.
REAR HALL The Andrew Martin plinth style mirror is in Corinthian-style and makes a stunning yet practical feature, contributing to the Art Deco nod of this space. A gorgeous Victorian pedestal jardiniere and bird cage seat upholstered by the wonderful JHD interiors. With exotic palms for an indoor garden theme.
STAIRWELL The wrought iron balustrades of the Georgian period were plain and less ornate than their Victorian counterparts. The original mahogany handrail is a great example of craftsmanship at the highest level. Also one of the first examples in the county of a concrete staircase. The method to create commercial concrete had only recently been discovered when this building was first built and as a flagship bank, this new material was used to create the stairwell.
FIRST FLOOR LANDING Dinner in The Galleried Library? A favourite space in the house, reminding the owner of a private room in an upmarket restaurant or bar. Perfect for an intimate gathering and seats up to six people. With a great choice of lighting, interesting world art including Moroccan carpet prints, a Timothy Oulton East Africa giant stamp, original Chinese communist posters, antique books, curiosities and beautiful Japanese Imari bowls. The room was created by opening up the first floor landing.
THE WAVENEY ROOM 12' 0" x 9' 7" (3.66m x 2.92m) The delightful Waveney Room. Where every day is beautiful inside, whatever the weather outside.
Themed after the Waveney Valley, a stretch of unspoilt wildlife that surrounds the old market town. Rich in variety of flora and fauna, from tranquil woodland, vibrant river meadows, marshes, fens and broads. Finished with beautiful traditional English fabric featuring purple wisteria, co-ordinated with curtains, pillows, cushions and runners made by the talented JHD Interiors. A large sash window and white washed floorboards make this a bright and airy room. There is also access to the en-suite.
HAMMAM SAUNA 6' 1" x 8' 6" (1.85m x 2.59m) Common in the Middle East, a Hammam is like a sauna, using steam instead of dry heat for relaxation and a deep cleanse. Traditionally three steps are involved: steam, exfoliate and massage.
The Hammam Spa at The Old Post Office is inside what was the bank vault of the building, originally Gurney Bank built in 1790. I specifically wanted to preserve the features of the arched brickwork with exposed iron reinforcements, choosing tiles to compliment, not distract from the space.
With chromatherapy mood altering lights, aromatherapy scents and Bluetooth wireless speakers to play your favourite tunes, all senses are heightened for total relaxation.
THE GURNEY ROOM 17' 9" x 15' 10" (5.41m x 4.83m) This room is as much opulent as is comfortable, there really is everything to love here.
With hues of gold and silver in a subtle exotic Middle Eastern theme, the room is furnished with low dome shaped pendant lights and geometric lattice patterns in the upholstery and tiles. It has a super king gold leather and chrome designer four poster bed, marble fireplace and large cast iron bath. With soothing walls painted in Dry Sage, this room is welcoming in the heat of summer or peak of our cold winter. There is also access to the en-suite.
THE SHAKESPEARE ROOM 19' 10" x 16' 11" (6.05m x 5.16m) So called because 'Shakespeare In Love' was filmed in Norfolk.
A romantic French inspired twin bedroom with restored 18th century French bedsteads and drapes in traditional French yarn by Scutt & Cole. The curtains and upholstery is made by the very talented JHD Interiors.
The hung reproduction wallpaper is from the same 18thC period by Thibaut Paysannerie, Toile in blue and yellow. The palette is inspired from Ralph Lauren's Monticello Yellow, named after the dining room at Thomas Jefferson's home. There is also access to the en-suite.
SECOND FLOOR LANDING The top floor rooms of The Old Post Office have a modern New York Loft vibe feel as these rooms tower over the old market streets with an apartment feel. The Old Post Office is the tallest residential building within the conservation area of this old market town. And with potential to create an enviable roof top garden with access from the upper gallery (plans in discussion with the Conservation Officer and Specialist Roof Garden Architects).
COFFEE GALLERY 9' 10" x 12' 1" (3m x 3.68m) With palms and ethnic fabrics, this space has been transformed into a tropical paradise, where it's sunny all year round. Great views across the old market town, along the cobbled streets with sights of the medieval buildings, Corn Exchange on Exchange Street to the Thoroughfare and fantastic view of the historic clock tower.
BEDROOM ONE 17' 1" x 20' 6 max" (5.21m x 6.25m) Fabulous roof top views like Mary Poppins seeing far into the countryside. This lovely room features Cole and Son 'Palm Leaves' in mint wallpaper and beautiful dark stained original wooden floors. With possibility to turn into a treatment room, office or further dressing room. There is also access to the en-suite.
BEDROOM TWO 11' 9" x 9' 11" (3.58m x 3.02m) A city vibe bedroom with a balance between cool and fun. We love the fabulous wall mural from Mr Perswall and the statement industrial ceiling light from Dwell Accessories, lamps and with retro speaker bedside tables and desk. There is also access to the en-suite.
BEDROOM THREE 6' 9" x 9' 0" (2.06m x 2.74m) French romantic with a modern twist in this grey, silver and white palette. Wallpaper coordinating with the Roman Blinds in contrasting scheme and plush cushions with matching headboard combo. Floorboards are original and in whitewash.
BEDROOM FOUR 7' 11" x 11' 5" (2.41m x 3.48m) And the animals came in two by two...a base design that can easily mature from nursery/single child's room to double teen's room. Kinabalu Wallpaper by Harlequin, White Elephant Table Lamp from House of Isabella, Blinds Animalia from Emma J Shipley.
DRESSING AREA Fireplace and double aspect wardrobe, sensory lights and full length mirror with white wash original floorboards, radiator and large walls for art.
MASTER SUITE Master Suite with Dressing Room and Ensuite Bathroom with Rose Gold Dual Vanity, Touch Screen Mist Free Mirror and Top Range Jet Bath with Waterproof Ceiling Speakers.
This top floor luxury Loft feel bedroom has an Emperor 7ft bed, feature fireplace and seating area. With contemporary feel black stained original floorboards, stunning crystal chandelier, designer wallpaper and gorgeous art deco inspired furnishings.
AGENTS NOTE All bookings will be honoured until end February 2024.
DISCLAIMER:
Minors and Brady and their representatives are not authorized to make or provide any representations or warranties regarding the property, whether in this document or elsewhere, whether on their own behalf or on behalf of their client or otherwise. We assume no responsibility for any statement that may be made in these particulars. These particulars do not form part of any offer or contract and must not be relied upon as statements or representations of fact. Any leasehold charges are provided by the seller, and it is recommended to have your legal representative fact check this information.
Any areas, measurements, or distances mentioned in this document are approximate. The text, photographs, and plans provided are for guidance purposes only and may not cover all aspects comprehensively. It should not be assumed that the property possesses all necessary planning, building regulation, or other consents. Minors and Brady, has not tested any services, equipment, or facilities. Prospective purchasers are advised to verify the information through inspection or other means to their satisfaction.
As you ascend the wrought iron balustrades of the Georgian-style staircase, you'll discover the Galleried Library, an intimate space perfect for gatherings. The Waveney Room beckons with themes of the surrounding valley, complemented by an ensuite. The Hammam Sauna offers relaxation in the former bank vault, and the luxurious Gurney Room boasts a gold leather and chrome designer four-poster bed.
The Shakespeare Room exudes romance with French-inspired decor, and the second-floor landing embraces a New York Loft vibe. The Coffee Gallery offers tropical vistas, while the top floor unveils a master suite with a dressing room and ensuite bathroom, complete with rose gold accents and a jet bath.
Currently running as both a residential home and luxury Guest House & Day Spa. This a great opportunity to purchase a successful business with a high social media presence and media press coverage or to enjoy an impressive entertainment home or second-holiday property. With its rich history and meticulous design, The Old Post Office presents an unparalleled opportunity to acquire a one-of-a-kind property.
LOCATION Lots of nearby activities including fishing lakes, the only camel safari in the UK, vineyard wine tours, canoeing, horse riding in the woods, picnic on the beach, castles, stately homes and more.
HISTORY OF THE OLD POST OFFICE Built in 1790 as Gurney Bank, the building became the National Post Office in 1896 when Gurney's along with other prominent Quaker Banking families merged to become Barclays Bank. After various commercial incarnations, this is the first time the house has been converted into a house in it's 230 year history.
Designing the interiors of The Old Post Office has become a symphony of different periods, moods and styles - making it a happy haven for every family member and guest.
ENTRANCE HALL In this part of the house, the owner was compelled to create something that felt like a sacred space. The stone floor, arches and lighting are designed in the light of the interiors of the churches in Italy. Ceiling roses have been added and picture lamps frame the antique 19th Holy Family print discovered from a Catholic Convent. The handmade plaster cherubs are from the monastery of St Francis of Assisi, Italy.
LOUNGE 17' 10" x 16' 1" (5.44m x 4.9m) The arches were filled in to close up the room, the removed door frame replaced and the fireplace opened up with a new fire surround and log burner. The original shutters were bolted in metal which were carefully removed and the wood painstakingly restored. The room is furnished with modern and quirky Timothy Alton and Andrew Martin designer furnishings and prints, vintage pieces and Louis De Poorter rug.
Enjoying the natural light that's playing in this corner of the house. A versatile space with a high Georgian ceilings and great big sash windows.
DRAWING ROOM 19' 10" x 17' 2" (6.05m x 5.23m) Features an original chandelier from The Savoy London. With high ceilings and original picture rail, this is the largest of the reception rooms. Optional purchases include 1920s ebony Baby Grand Piano, and 1900s Chinoiserie three seater ebony Bergere suite and an Art Deco chaise, originally belonging to Tom Ford of Gucci. Includes antique paintings and display furniture.
DINING ROOM 17' 11" x 12' 4" (5.46m x 3.76m) The wallpaper is Strawberry Thief in Chocolate. It takes as it's subject the thrushes that Morris found stealing fruit in the garden of his countryside home. The room has been accessorized with hand embroidered pictures and vintage Mason's crockery. The chairs are antique rush spindle chairs and the large table made bespoke with red legs. Seating up to 12 people with Bluetooth ceiling speakers and a range of lighting for added ambience, the original wooden shutters which were restored close for privacy.
KITCHEN 17' 5 max" x 15' 11 max" (5.31m x 4.85m) Scullery, pantry and larder are sometimes used interchangeably and making a comeback into homes, not just reserved to stately houses. The kitchen has been designed into working sections, the island with vegetable sink, chopping area and hidden bin; scullery with double butler sink, Chefs tap and dishwasher which are tucked away in the corner, so this messy area is hidden away from first sight. The pantry and larder are now in what were originally the ground floor bank vaults.
The large Georgian sash window allows floods of light into the kitchen, making this an inviting room. The colour gradually changes with the sun during the day from a grey blue to cool blue.
REAR HALL The Andrew Martin plinth style mirror is in Corinthian-style and makes a stunning yet practical feature, contributing to the Art Deco nod of this space. A gorgeous Victorian pedestal jardiniere and bird cage seat upholstered by the wonderful JHD interiors. With exotic palms for an indoor garden theme.
STAIRWELL The wrought iron balustrades of the Georgian period were plain and less ornate than their Victorian counterparts. The original mahogany handrail is a great example of craftsmanship at the highest level. Also one of the first examples in the county of a concrete staircase. The method to create commercial concrete had only recently been discovered when this building was first built and as a flagship bank, this new material was used to create the stairwell.
FIRST FLOOR LANDING Dinner in The Galleried Library? A favourite space in the house, reminding the owner of a private room in an upmarket restaurant or bar. Perfect for an intimate gathering and seats up to six people. With a great choice of lighting, interesting world art including Moroccan carpet prints, a Timothy Oulton East Africa giant stamp, original Chinese communist posters, antique books, curiosities and beautiful Japanese Imari bowls. The room was created by opening up the first floor landing.
THE WAVENEY ROOM 12' 0" x 9' 7" (3.66m x 2.92m) The delightful Waveney Room. Where every day is beautiful inside, whatever the weather outside.
Themed after the Waveney Valley, a stretch of unspoilt wildlife that surrounds the old market town. Rich in variety of flora and fauna, from tranquil woodland, vibrant river meadows, marshes, fens and broads. Finished with beautiful traditional English fabric featuring purple wisteria, co-ordinated with curtains, pillows, cushions and runners made by the talented JHD Interiors. A large sash window and white washed floorboards make this a bright and airy room. There is also access to the en-suite.
HAMMAM SAUNA 6' 1" x 8' 6" (1.85m x 2.59m) Common in the Middle East, a Hammam is like a sauna, using steam instead of dry heat for relaxation and a deep cleanse. Traditionally three steps are involved: steam, exfoliate and massage.
The Hammam Spa at The Old Post Office is inside what was the bank vault of the building, originally Gurney Bank built in 1790. I specifically wanted to preserve the features of the arched brickwork with exposed iron reinforcements, choosing tiles to compliment, not distract from the space.
With chromatherapy mood altering lights, aromatherapy scents and Bluetooth wireless speakers to play your favourite tunes, all senses are heightened for total relaxation.
THE GURNEY ROOM 17' 9" x 15' 10" (5.41m x 4.83m) This room is as much opulent as is comfortable, there really is everything to love here.
With hues of gold and silver in a subtle exotic Middle Eastern theme, the room is furnished with low dome shaped pendant lights and geometric lattice patterns in the upholstery and tiles. It has a super king gold leather and chrome designer four poster bed, marble fireplace and large cast iron bath. With soothing walls painted in Dry Sage, this room is welcoming in the heat of summer or peak of our cold winter. There is also access to the en-suite.
THE SHAKESPEARE ROOM 19' 10" x 16' 11" (6.05m x 5.16m) So called because 'Shakespeare In Love' was filmed in Norfolk.
A romantic French inspired twin bedroom with restored 18th century French bedsteads and drapes in traditional French yarn by Scutt & Cole. The curtains and upholstery is made by the very talented JHD Interiors.
The hung reproduction wallpaper is from the same 18thC period by Thibaut Paysannerie, Toile in blue and yellow. The palette is inspired from Ralph Lauren's Monticello Yellow, named after the dining room at Thomas Jefferson's home. There is also access to the en-suite.
SECOND FLOOR LANDING The top floor rooms of The Old Post Office have a modern New York Loft vibe feel as these rooms tower over the old market streets with an apartment feel. The Old Post Office is the tallest residential building within the conservation area of this old market town. And with potential to create an enviable roof top garden with access from the upper gallery (plans in discussion with the Conservation Officer and Specialist Roof Garden Architects).
COFFEE GALLERY 9' 10" x 12' 1" (3m x 3.68m) With palms and ethnic fabrics, this space has been transformed into a tropical paradise, where it's sunny all year round. Great views across the old market town, along the cobbled streets with sights of the medieval buildings, Corn Exchange on Exchange Street to the Thoroughfare and fantastic view of the historic clock tower.
BEDROOM ONE 17' 1" x 20' 6 max" (5.21m x 6.25m) Fabulous roof top views like Mary Poppins seeing far into the countryside. This lovely room features Cole and Son 'Palm Leaves' in mint wallpaper and beautiful dark stained original wooden floors. With possibility to turn into a treatment room, office or further dressing room. There is also access to the en-suite.
BEDROOM TWO 11' 9" x 9' 11" (3.58m x 3.02m) A city vibe bedroom with a balance between cool and fun. We love the fabulous wall mural from Mr Perswall and the statement industrial ceiling light from Dwell Accessories, lamps and with retro speaker bedside tables and desk. There is also access to the en-suite.
BEDROOM THREE 6' 9" x 9' 0" (2.06m x 2.74m) French romantic with a modern twist in this grey, silver and white palette. Wallpaper coordinating with the Roman Blinds in contrasting scheme and plush cushions with matching headboard combo. Floorboards are original and in whitewash.
BEDROOM FOUR 7' 11" x 11' 5" (2.41m x 3.48m) And the animals came in two by two...a base design that can easily mature from nursery/single child's room to double teen's room. Kinabalu Wallpaper by Harlequin, White Elephant Table Lamp from House of Isabella, Blinds Animalia from Emma J Shipley.
DRESSING AREA Fireplace and double aspect wardrobe, sensory lights and full length mirror with white wash original floorboards, radiator and large walls for art.
MASTER SUITE Master Suite with Dressing Room and Ensuite Bathroom with Rose Gold Dual Vanity, Touch Screen Mist Free Mirror and Top Range Jet Bath with Waterproof Ceiling Speakers.
This top floor luxury Loft feel bedroom has an Emperor 7ft bed, feature fireplace and seating area. With contemporary feel black stained original floorboards, stunning crystal chandelier, designer wallpaper and gorgeous art deco inspired furnishings.
AGENTS NOTE All bookings will be honoured until end February 2024.
DISCLAIMER:
Minors and Brady and their representatives are not authorized to make or provide any representations or warranties regarding the property, whether in this document or elsewhere, whether on their own behalf or on behalf of their client or otherwise. We assume no responsibility for any statement that may be made in these particulars. These particulars do not form part of any offer or contract and must not be relied upon as statements or representations of fact. Any leasehold charges are provided by the seller, and it is recommended to have your legal representative fact check this information.
Any areas, measurements, or distances mentioned in this document are approximate. The text, photographs, and plans provided are for guidance purposes only and may not cover all aspects comprehensively. It should not be assumed that the property possesses all necessary planning, building regulation, or other consents. Minors and Brady, has not tested any services, equipment, or facilities. Prospective purchasers are advised to verify the information through inspection or other means to their satisfaction.
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