You can't help feeling close to nature in this barn-style property with its oak and limestone flooring and full-height ceilings complemented by tasteful décor.

You can't help feeling close to nature in this barn-style property with its oak and limestone flooring and full-height ceilings complemented by tasteful décor. CAROLINE CULOT looks at Marshland View, Titchwell.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

This new property reflects the beautiful, vast open countryside which it looks onto. Marshland View, which has views of one of the finest bird reserves in the country, is all about creating a feeling of space.

It overlooks Titchwell reserve, covering 515 acres, located in north-west Norfolk between Brancaster and Thornham, and you can see dunlin, ruffs, ringed plovers, kingfishers, godwits, curlews and several types of terns.

You may even hear a bittern or see a marsh harrier “sky dancing”.

This house had to justify such a wonderful setting - and it does. Its first floor is a vast, open-plan living space, cleverly done with three defined areas: a sitting room, viewing deck and a stunning kitchen/dining room.

The property was built by the respected Stuart Farrow builders and personalised by the current owners with contemporary, high-quality fittings. Cream tones reflect the light and complement the oak flooring and a bespoke oak staircase with glass panels.

It makes the most of the spectacular views and the opportunity to sit and spot bird life with its “upside down living” concept of having the main reception areas on the first floor and the bedrooms beneath.

What I really love about this property, which offers the perfect weekend retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, if not a permanent residence, is its simplicity of décor. Contemporary furnishings have a purpose; the lack of clutter is all about reflecting its tranquil setting.

Much attention has been paid to the creating the right feel with remote-control, low-voltage lighting, giving just the right hue when the day falls to night.

The kitchen is beautiful with its curving, hand-made units and breakfast bar. The bedrooms (there are four/five, four with ensuites) have been kept simple, but I love the fish fabric used, bringing in a touch of fun and colour.

Brown and navy furnishings with a few bold prints complement the creams and whites of the walls and crisp white bed linen looks so inviting, with scattered cushions in the same fabric as the blinds.

Marshland View, Titchwell, has just come on the market for £910,000 with Sowerbys.