Balans 114331 BL MiddelburgAbdij

In the heart of Middelburg’s historic city centre stands this exceptionally elegant and extensively renovated listed monumental townhouse, offering approximately 750 sq.m. of living space. This impressive residence was fully renovated in 2015 and features, among other things, six bedrooms, six bathrooms and a lift, seamlessly integrating contemporary comfort into a property of great historical character. The house dates from around 1680 and originally consisted of three separate houses that were later combined into one. The property holds a special place in the history of Middelburg and remained completely intact during both the bombardment and the later flooding. The generous plot comprises 958 sq.m. of freehold land and includes a deep, beautifully landscaped rear garden with rear access leading to both Bogardstraat and Wagenaarstraat. A corresponding garage box is located approximately a five-minute walk away. The property, formerly used as a district court and a bank, occupies a highly distinguished location in the historic city centre, adjoining the Abbey complex and the Provincial Government building. Owing to its scale, layout and representative appearance, the property is particularly well suited to an elegant combination of living and working, allowing private and business use to be fully separated, while retaining the benefits of both functions under one roof. Following its acquisition by the current owner in 2014, the house underwent an extensive renovation lasting approximately one and a half years before being occupied. The works carried out include, among other things: replacement of the damaged marble in the hallways with thicker marble slabs from Italy; removal of the former communal toilets and the creation of new spaces for a cloakroom and the installation of the lift; complete repainting of the entire house, including shutters, new shutters and ceilings; reinstallation of the heating in the sitting room; installation of five new gas fireplaces; installation of new wall panelling in the sitting room to replace damaged wallpaper; careful restoration of decorative wall elements in the study, which were repainted by hand with gold leaf; creation of bedrooms and bathrooms on the upper floor; creation of new door openings between bedrooms and bathrooms; installation of heating pipes beneath the floor; creation of an apartment on the third floor, suitable for guests with children. The general layout is as follows. A monumental front door opens into the entrance hall. To the left upon entering is an elegant study. To the right at the front is an inviting living room with a gas fireplace, rich ornamental ceilings, refined wall finishes, high windows and numerous original details. The front room enjoys beautiful views over de Balans and towards the Abbey complex. The rear room comprises a spacious and comfortable live-in kitchen with room for both a dining area and a sitting area, also featuring a gas fireplace. From here there are lovely views of the garden and direct access to the beautifully landscaped rear garden. Adjacent is a practical and well-appointed utility room. From the hall behind the front door, the particularly spacious basement level is also accessible. The ground floor further comprises a cloakroom with wardrobe and access to the lift, a toilet with washbasin, and a storage room with countertop and storage cupboard. A stately staircase, or the lift, leads to the first floor. The landing provides access to three generous bedrooms, each with its own spacious en-suite bathroom. In addition, there is a corridor providing access to storage space, the lift and a lockable passage to the rear house. The second floor, also the attic level, is accessible by staircase or lift and includes a large, bright open space currently used as a hobby room with seating area. This floor also accommodates two spacious bedrooms, each with its own bathroom. The rear house can serve perfectly as separate accommodation and features an attractive kitchen on the ground floor and a bedroom with shower and toilet on the upper floor, accessible via its own staircase. Originally, this rear house was intended as living quarters for staff. The rear garden, accessible from both the kitchen and the corridor, is beautifully landscaped and offers several pleasant areas in which to relax. Directly behind the house is a lovely terrace, while further into the garden several additional seating areas have been created. The garden also features a generous lawn, borders, a detached wooden storage shed and rear access. A truly unique and highly representative property, distinguished by its history, scale, comfort and versatility, in the heart of historic Middelburg. Viewings are strictly by appointment only. Completion in consultation.