Callender Howorth comprises a team of professional interior architects that offers bespoke design services in Harpenden and surrounding areas of London. We have a rich and varied portfolio of luxury architectural projects – including both high-end commercial and residential projects – and we offer a passionate, individualised service to each of our clients to ensure that the end result of every renovation surpasses expectations. Our professional, highly efficient approach coupled with our creativity and combined expertise has built us a reputation as one of the top interior architecture firms in the UK and overseas.
There are over 800 national listed buildings in the district of St Albans, Harpenden’s surrounding area. Harpenden Hall and Harpenden Moat House are of particular historical interest, and are both grade II listed buildings. Harpenden Hall is a historic mansion which was built in the 16th century by Ralph Cressy and has been used for a number of different purposes over the years since its construction, including a convent school and council offices. Other buildings of interest include the Old Town Hall and the beautiful Rothamsted Manor House and grounds, which were also constructed in the 16th century.
The interior architects at Callender Howorth completed an extensive restoration project on a contemporary mansion, transforming it into a show-stopping family home and a luxurious space for entertaining. This involved a total reimagining of the downstairs area, to transform the ground floor into a light and airy space with plenty of opportunities to catch the scenic surrounding views. The interior uses natural wood and light stones, for a sophisticated, modern feel.
Many of the cultural attractions in and around Harpenden are based around the area’s rich history. A particular gem is the fully restored, working watermill at Redbournbury, which produces its own organic flour from locally sourced grains. Set in tranquil rural surroundings, it’s a charming place to visit – you can buy bread from the mill and study the wildlife around the banks of the river which includes rare British birds such as kingfishers and red kites.
Nearby, there is also Redbourn Village Museum. Previously a silk mill and a tea packing factory, it is now a museum housing a brilliantly interesting collection of artefacts relating to the history of the village. Managed by the Redbourn Parish council and staffed exclusively by volunteers, it is a place of great cultural interest. Outdoor events take place throughout the year in the museum’s gardens.
For a contemporary British dining experience, St Michael’s Manor in St Albans offers exceptional cuisine and luxurious service in a delightful setting. The house and gardens are immaculately maintained and are situated by the picturesque banks of the River Ver. Its speciality is, as you may have guessed, a wonderful Sunday brunch.
When it comes to shopping, Harpenden has a lovely, leafy town centre with a number of great restaurants, upmarket independent shops and cosy pubs. Harpenden is a green town, and close to the high street is the well maintained common which is perfect for families. There are also various golf clubs nearby, including Harpenden Common Golf Club and Aldwickbury Park Golf Club
The town of Harpenden also has a bustling farmers market which is held every Sunday, offering a range of local produce, art and craft stalls and above all a lovely atmosphere.
Perhaps attracted to the combination of close proximity to London with space, tranquillity and appealing architecture, a number of well-known public figures have made residence in and around Harpenden. Among them include the likes of former One Directioner Zayn Malik, Harry Potter actor Rupert Grint, and Cheryl Fernandez-Versini, all of whom have made St Albans their home during the course of their successful careers.