You can make the most of summer days in this Hertfordshire home, which sits in a lush 3.5-acre plot and comes with barns that are ripe for conversion.

On the market via Aucoot for £1.975m, the four-bedroom Gilston property, known as Grasslands, was designed in 1960 by building firm Helmer & Dyer. The company was a frequent collaborator with architect Frederick Gibberd, who planned the new town of Harlow, as well as many Brutalist landmarks including 180 The Strand.

But there’s nothing Brutal about this English country home.

The kitchen – a one-off Vitsoe prototype – and dining room are at the heart of the Hertfordshire property, which has a T-shaped floor plan. Huge picture windows look out onto the gardens, orchards and countryside beyond.

Grasslands’ interiors channel a contemporary vibe, with white walls and wooden floors. A guest bedroom and winter garden branch off the living room on the ground floor, while an open tread staircase leads up to three more bedrooms.

Across the orchard from the main house is a huge 2,800 sq ft barn that’s been converted into a studio, complete with polished concrete floors. Its interiors have been clad using reclaimed wooden materials from the original structure, and it features a soaring trussed ceiling. A mezzanine level overlooks the kitchen and work area below.

Two similar-sized barns are also included in the sale: originally built as barracks during WWII, they could be converted into additional studio space, guest accommodation or holiday lets, subject to planning permission.

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