Lights twinkle in the darkness around the harbour below, on the horizon a tinge of orange as the dawn awakens, soon, rays of sunlight begin to touch the window and bring with them the delight of a new day unfolding inside this incredible home.
This is somewhere that captured an artist’s heart, a home that has a life and a very wonderful character all of its own. Standing outside it for the first time, just looking at the architecture, you know it will be special.
It wasn't always quite so wonderful. When the current owner first saw it, the building was in need of some love and attention, still it drew him in and he was delighted by what he found.
Georgian in origin, the house has altered and developed through the centuries, many have left their mark here. There is a fascinating mix of fireplaces, we've photographed some but left others for you to discover when you visit. Stained glass windows, ornate ceilings, half landings, recesses, wine cellar, second kitchen, the list goes on and on, so much to absorb, to take in and then there are those incredible views out to sea and over the harbour, encompassing the delightful waterfront area of the old town. Raised up above it as you are, you have a bird’s eye view of things from the balcony, we hadn't mentioned that had we! From the balcony and, importantly, the roof terrace, you can absorb the vista and follow the horizon in the other direction toward Sandwich Bay.
We love the height of the ceilings, the expanse of glass, to open the first floor living room door and step onto the balcony is a wonderful feeling, there's a rush of excitement as you step out and start to scan the scene in front of you.
This is a home we could keep raving about, we could photograph it endlessly, all day long all year round. Capturing the play of light here, the changing colours on the water and on the town as the sun swings round, seeing the lights come on as dusk approaches, it all mesmerises.
It has been an incredible home for our client, a busy person whose work has often taken him away for extended periods, this has been somewhere to delight in returning to, a home that envelops and relaxes after the stresses of a busy working life. It is somewhere to enjoy, to share with friends and family, a place anyone would delight in visiting just to experience the magic.
Much work has been done to the house, it has been done with care and sympathy, that comes from the artist within our client and from a background of working with stunning buildings, involved previously with restoration work in one of Pugin's masterpieces, there is an understanding displayed that shows a sense of custodianship.
Outside? When you're in the house the views captivate you, engross you and the thought of a garden is far away. There is a courtyard, it's compact and all the owner needs, life here revolves around the views and the roof terrace absorbs much spare time, not a rear garden. Sat with friends, be they people or books, upon this glorious spot gives more enjoyment than many gardens can provide.
There is a garage too! Parking can be found outside the house on the roadside but having that garage is another huge plus point of life here.
What of Ramsgate? Historic, revitalised, picturesque, accessible by High Speed train from London. It is all these things, a gem that is being discovered by more and more people. It is a town where Augustus Pugin made his home, built a church and loved life.
Restaurants, cafes, walks around the conservation area and then coastline to discover, countryside to explore, historic places like Sandwich to enjoy, Ramsgate provides much more than some people credit it for, not completely an undiscovered gem, many have already realised how fabulous it is, but somewhere that still has many discovering it for the first time and the spotlight beckons.

Get in touch if you like this home.