Grand Designs Glass Mansion, Once Criticized as 'University Research Centre,' Lists for £5 Million
A modernist glass home featured on Grand Designs, which drew comparisons to a research facility and faced local opposition, is now on the market.
A striking modernist glass mansion, famously featured on the Channel 4 show Grand Designs and once likened by host Kevin McCloud to a 'university research centre,' has been listed for sale at £5 million.
The property, known as Sylvan Glade, is a six-bedroom detached house located on the exclusive Keston Park estate near Orpington, Kent. Its contemporary design, characterized by extensive glazing, sparked controversy among neighbors when it was built, with some comparing it to an institutional building rather than a private residence.
The approval process for the home was protracted, requiring five years and two complete redesigns. Architects involved in the project recalled strong opposition from some residents, describing them as having been "out there with the picks and forks to have a go." The house was finally completed in April 2011.
During its appearance on Grand Designs, McCloud described the curtainless home as a "Miami art-deco house" and noted its resemblance to a research center or corporate headquarters. He observed that while its anonymity hid its function as a family home, its scale and complexity were significant.
Paul and Penny Denby, the homeowners, demolished their previous neo-Tudor house to construct their dream home. The project, initially budgeted at £1 million, ultimately cost around £1.6 million, requiring a loan from their son when their bank declined to provide additional funds.
Despite the initial reservations from some locals, Penny Denby stated that the majority of residents eventually accepted the property. Keston Park is known as a secure, desirable enclave with 24-hour security, having previously housed notable figures such as Margaret Thatcher and Bill Wyman.
The six-bedroom property spans approximately 6,949 square feet and includes a cinema room, a library, and a large living area. The sales listing highlights the home's abundant natural light, open-plan living spaces that extend to landscaped gardens, and its secluded woodland setting.
In addition to the main residence, the property features a self-contained one-bedroom apartment and the potential for a further ground-floor apartment. The listing also mentions a lift serving all floors, underfloor heating, and a double garage with electric vehicle charging.
The property was recently reduced in price from £5,750,000 to its current asking price of £4,999,995. It is being marketed chain-free.
