News / Bristol
Revealed: Exclusive first glimpse inside transformed Manor House
The developer breathing fresh life into a 17th century Manor House has revealed the vision behind its transformation into boutique student flats – and given Bristol247 an exclusive glimpse inside.
Originally built as a family home in 1691, the Grade II listed property behind St Michael’s Hill was gutted by fire in 1979, before being rebuilt in the 1980s. It has taken on various guises over the years, before emerging phoenix-like from the flames as the latest offering in stylish city living.
is needed now More than ever
Jonathan Brecknell, director of Bristol’s Urban Creation, is the man responsible for bringing the hidden gem back to life with its conversion into 12 apartments. He has also added six brand new homes next door.
Brecknell bought the empty building in 2015 from Bristol Charities – a charity that provides housing and assistance for the elderly – after the tenants had moved out, with the vision of transforming it into student accommodation.
He said: “It is just the kind of project we love doing. We love listed buildings and things with a few difficult angles, we are never afraid of a challenge in developing a project like this because we think when it’s done, the building you are left with has natural curvature.
“I’m also interested in bringing buildings back to life and always use every bit of the building and space available. When we are finished, the building will be good for another 250 years.”
Interior shots of The Manor House form Urban Creation. Bristol. Images by jon Craig. @JonCraig_Photos 07778606070
It is something of a full circle for Brecknell, who studied at Bristol University between 1989 and 1992, before leaving to work in London and then across the globe.
He seized an opportunity to return the city he loves and set up Urban Creation in 2004.
Brecknell added: “The Manor House is not only a truly unique property but it benefits from being in a fantastic location: a secluded spot yet right on the doorstep of Bristol University and close to Bristol’s vibrant city centre.
“These apartments will be bright and airy places to live, full of character, but also fitted out with all the modern touches, including en-suite shower rooms and ultra-fast internet connections.”
Interior shots of The Manor House form Urban Creation. Bristol. Images by jon Craig. @JonCraig_Photos 07778606070
In order to bring the 5,600 sq ft ancient property up to modern day standards, Brecknell and his team have worked with Bristol City Council conservation officers, replaced the entire roof, added insulation and replaced all of the glass in the existing window frames.
The ambitious project appears to have paid off and the result is an impressively unique building with unrivalled views across the city.
Although stylish living doesn’t come cheap and a studio apartment in the Manor House will cost from £230 per week, with one-bed flats starting at £250 per week. The price includes all bills.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xCL3eCpdiy0&feature=youtu.be
Apartments will be ready by the end of May. For lettings enquiries, contact Bristol SU lettings on 0117 3318266.
Read more: From 17th century gem to student house
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