A "striking" grade II listed building has been put up for sale with a £895,000 price tag.
Brickett, known as The Picture House, in School Lane, Bricket Wood, was built by architect and philanthropist Frederick Wallen in the late 1880s – originally intended as a summer retreat from his London home.
A fire in the early 1950s destroyed part of the building, which was then reconstructed to form two semi-detached houses with one of those now available for a guide price of £895,000.
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It has been brought to market by estate agents Savills Rickmansworth as a three double bedroom property, having had just six owners since being built in the late 19th century.
The Picture House has colourful external panels decorated with images of late 19th century sporting activities such as boxing, wrestling, rowing, horse riding, cricket, skating, and leap-frog.
Property agent Peter Everett said: “The original arts and crafts style building replaced an old cottage that was on the site – believed to have been part of a larger estate owned by the Earl of Essex.
“The scenes on the front and sides of the house depict a variety of different sports and certainly make an interesting talking point. The local archives are full of stories from people who visited the area and remember the house and are fascinated by its history.”
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Wallen, who died in 1917 and is buried in nearby Leavesden cemetery, was involved with a London home for destitute boys and would encourage them to stay and visit Bricket Wood and engage in countryside pursuits in order to escape the city.
According to the listing, it has two reception rooms, three bedrooms, a “luxury fitted” kitchen, ample off-street parking, two bathrooms, a dining hall, a cloakroom, an en-suite in the main bedroom, and gardens.
Mr Everett added: “It’s a rare opportunity for someone to take ownership of a truly landmark home of significant local importance – and we’re excited to have the opportunity to find its next custodian.”
The estate agents highlighted the “semi-rural” location’s excellent commuter links with Garston station and the M25 being within about a mile.
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