5 Bedroom Detached House, Cottenham Close, Over, CB24

Originally built around 1980 as a four-bedroom detached family house, the property was completely reimagined and extended by QOCA Architects between 2015 and 2017. This superb renovation blends striking architectural design with warmth, comfort and a sense of effortless modern living. The heart of the home is the stunning open-plan kitchen and living space at the rear, designed to maximise light and connection with the garden. This extension, finished in Shou-Sugi-Ban charred larch with a zinc roof, features full-width folding doors that open directly onto a beautifully landscaped garden, creating a perfect flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. The kitchen itself is both practical and stylish, designed with family living and entertaining in mind. Appliances include a fridge/freezer, range cooker, integrated dishwasher and integrated oven, with wood counter tops and oak flooring, leading onto a useful utility room with additional storage and access to the garden. Lastly, a much requested home office.

The front sitting room provides a cosy space, open plan to the snug with a wood-burning stove that adds character and warmth. The two wet rooms — one en suite to the principal bedroom and one on the ground floor — are fitted with Philippe Starck–designed Duravit ME sanitaryware, reflecting the property’s focus on high-quality finishes and contemporary design. Every element of the renovation was thoughtfully considered, with a focus on sustainability, natural light and materials that will age beautifully over time. The first floor benefits from impressive vaulted ceilings that enhance the sense of light and space throughout. The large landing area, currently used as a play space, creates an additional space and includes a skylight that floods the area with natural light. Thoughtful design continues with bespoke built-in storage, ensuring practicality without compromising the home’s contemporary style and clean lines.

Externally, the property enjoys a generous plot for its type, including a mature, private rear garden extending to approximately 20 metres (65 feet). The space provides plenty of room for children to play, summer entertaining, or simply relaxing in the sun. To the front, there is ample driveway parking. The design of the house, combined with its quiet cul-de-sac position, creates a calm and refined family environment.

LOCATION

Over is a popular and well-served village situated around ten miles northwest of Cambridge and five miles from St Ives. It offers the perfect mix of village charm and modern convenience, with a good range of local amenities including a convenience store, post office, café, pub, and community centre. The village also benefits from a recreation ground, sports clubs, and scenic walks along the River Great Ouse and the surrounding countryside, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor leisure.

Transport links from Over are excellent, making it ideal for commuters. The nearby A14 gives easy access to Cambridge, Huntingdon, and the M11, while the Cambridgeshire Guided Busway runs from the neighbouring village of Swavesey and is just 1m from the property, offering fast and reliable connections to Cambridge city centre, St Ives, and Addenbrooke’s Hospital. There are also regular bus services linking Over to nearby villages and towns, as well as cycle routes that connect to Cambridge and the wider area.

Families are well catered for with Over Primary School located in the village and rated highly by Ofsted. Older students typically attend Swavesey Village College, an outstanding secondary school with a sixth form and excellent reputation.