Time To Adapt

By modifying the layout, Julia Taylor-Stanley has brought light and space into her period house

- Sharon Parsons

When Julia Taylor-Stanley and her husband Mark Marshall first viewed the Devon property that they now call home, they were captivated. Set in nine acres of woodland and gardens with far-reaching countryside views, the imposing villa was built in 1876 as a gentleman’s residence. ‘The way it came into view as we rounded the drive was wonderful,’ says Julia, ‘but it was only when I stepped into the sitting room with its elegant proportions and its aspect over the gardens, that something resonated. It felt so tranquil and calm, and as a writer, I really value that sense of peace.’

Indeed, Julia, an award-winning scriptwriter and film producer, together with Mark, who works for a renewable energy company, were keen to find a property that would be a haven from the hustle and bustle of daily life, and tick all the boxes in terms of character, space and location. ‘I had owned a holiday home in Devon in the past, and had always thought it such a special area,’ says Julia. ‘When we finally had an opportunity to move down here full-time, we didn’t hesitate.’

The couple rented a property in a nearby village while they searched for their ideal home. ‘This house was actually the first one we saw, but we still looked at several others before agreeing this was the one we loved the most,’ Julia says. ‘We especially admired the beautiful landscaped garden, which the previous owners had created. We’re both keen gardeners, and really appreciated how much thought and care had gone into it over the years, and were keen to develop it further.’