A futuristic home in one of the Midlands' most affluent villages, derided by locals as a 'blot on the landscape', has finally found a buyer after eight years on the market—selling for £1 million less than its original asking price.
Hedge House in Knowle, near Solihull, was constructed in 2018 with an array of 'smart' eco-friendly features. The larch timber used in its construction was sourced from Cannock Chase, also in the Midlands. The property was once described as the 'jewel' in the portfolio of the development firm that built it.
The residence boasts an open internal garden, a luxury spa complete with gym, sauna, and hot tub, and six-and-a-half acres of grounds offering 'unspoilt rural views'. Despite these features, it struggled to attract buyers in the luxury market, leading to a price reduction from a reported £3.5 million to a guide price of £2.7 million.
According to estate agent Hanson Partners, which handled the sale, the property eventually sold for £2.55 million, with some fixtures and fittings extra. Thomas Siviter, founder of Hanson Partners, commented: 'The completion of the sale marks another significant transaction in the luxury property market and ensures this extraordinary residence will continue its legacy as one of the Midlands' most celebrated contemporary homes.'
The Grand Designs-style build sparked strong opinions among Knowle villagers. On the Balsall Common Facebook group, many were scathing. Jacqui Fisher wrote: 'A blot on the landscape! Looks like a big shipping container has been dropped in the middle of a field. £3.5m too. No wonder it hasn't sold.' John Billingham added: 'I've driven past it many times and wondered what it looked like inside. It was even worse than I imagined, bloody awful.' Louise Allen said: 'It's an eyesore. Should be knocked down.' Carmen Earnshaw agreed: 'Never seen such an eyesore! A monstrosity on a beautiful landscape! I can't believe planning permission was ever granted!' Katrina Shiers commented: 'It's impressively large, but horrible inside and out. I hate it and feel it's a blot on the landscape.' Carolyn Palmer added: 'If they find a buyer for this eyesore it will be a miracle. It's the epitome of bad taste, ugly inside and out, no natural light and nowhere to garage their Ferraris and Porsches, no redeeming features, knock it down.'
