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Homeowners Zoe Farrar and Pepe Sanchez de Alcazar Aznar tell us why their one-bedroom flat with an expansive garden has been like living in their very own Eden Project.
From the front of this Victorian terraced property on the lively Bath Road, you might not expect to step into such a serene space inside. But Zoe Farrar, an operations manager in student accommodation, and her partner Pepe, an IT and communications manager, have transformed the home significantly since moving in back in November 2019.
“It looks quite old fashioned from the outside, but we completely redecorated indoors,” says Zoe. “We painted everything white, restored the original floorboards and added an abundance of houseplants to create a fresh, neutral scheme. It’s like our very own Eden project with the number of plants we live amongst,” she adds, smiling.
The one-bedroom flat certainly feels bright and airy, thanks to the large bay windows that allow natural light to flood through. “We have views across the city,” explains Zoe. “This home has a city-centre location feel but when you go to the back of the house it feels as though you could be anywhere because you are just looking out towards greenery.”
The couple had previously lived across the road in the Paintworks development but were keen to find somewhere with a garden. “This enormous garden sold it for us,” recalls Zoe. “As soon as it was available, we were straight in there,” she adds. The south-facing garden is indeed a standout feature and has been landscaped across three tiers that lead up to Arnos Vale cemetery. “On a Sunday morning, we can just hop over and grab coffee and cake from Cleverchefs café there.”
Across the other side of Bath Road is the award-winning venue Bocabar. “The pizzas there are delicious,” says Zoe. “In summer, we can just take a look out the window and see if there is a table free in the beer garden and pop over,” she continues. “We’ve also got so many eateries on our doorstep to choose from,” says Zoe. “There’s plenty of places to head to on Sandy Park road, and in Totterdown there’s lovely greengrocers, coffee shops, and delis. The Star & Dove pub does a phenomenal Sunday roast, and is only a 15-minute walk away.”
While Zoe and Pepe have decided it’s time to move into a larger home, they say they’ll both really miss both the luscious garden and convenient location. “We’ve loved hosting barbecues in the garden with friends, and if they don’t live in Bristol, it’s an easy walk down the hill to Temple Meads Railway station,” says Zoe. “Likewise, it’s just a quick stroll into the centre. Though you don’t ever need to leave the local area – the choice of friendly independent amenities on your doorstep is something else. Whoever buys this home next will be in a very lucky position.”
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