Courtyards have been a coveted feature of residential architecture around the world for centuries, creating a secluded, private retreat that is the perfect way to bring the outdoors in. At Abode, a new homes development by Countryside in Cambridge, The Windham house design employs the classic architectural feature to maximise the feeling of space and light. The unusual design provides ample opportunity to soak up the outdoors through its integral courtyard, three terraces and two balconies.

Light and space are key features of the latest collection of properties at Abode, which forms part of Great Kneighton, a new community in the south of Cambridge packed with green spaces, including an idyllic 120-acre country park. This stunning collection offers homes ranging from modern two-bedroom apartments to luxurious four and five bedroom houses.

Thoughtfully designed outside space acts as an extension of the interior living areas throughout the development, which features a mixture of hidden courtyards, stylish balconies, and elegant roof terraces. The Windham is a unique family home that provides a quiet, tranquil outdoor space, for families to relax and spend time together, whilst maintaining upmost privacy.

David Everett, Managing Director of Countryside’s New Homes & Communities Central Division comments: “Courtyards introduce light and air to the spaces that surround them, seamlessly merging the inside with the outside. They offer a private oasis in the heart of the home and serve as sheltered and secure outdoor rooms that double as summer living and dining spaces, safe playrooms and intimate areas for entertaining. The courtyards at Abode encourage a strong feeling of wellbeing, like a secret garden hidden within the walls of the home, perfect for al fresco entertaining or simply relaxing with a drink on a warm summer evening.”

The Windham is an impressive five-bedroom home with a unique courtyard and five outdoor terraces. The ground floor is home to a spacious open plan kitchen/living and dining area, which wraps around the fully integrated central courtyard. The courtyard, along with full height windows, French doors and vaulted ceilings ensure the home is flooded with natural light.

On the first floor is a separate living room, with access to a terrace overlooking the courtyard, and three of the bedrooms including the master suite, which incorporates a dressing area. The top floor features another pair of double bedrooms, both of which benefit from their own private terrace. All of the five bedrooms also have a luxurious en suite bathroom with stylish white sanitary ware and chrome accessories.

Situated on the southern fringe of the city centre, Abode is part of Great Kneighton, where Countryside is creating over 2,250 new homes and a wide range of community facilities, including a proposed health centre, shops, library, community square, sports pitches, new schools and a public art programme.

Abode is located close to the Great Kneighton access point for the award winning fast-track Cambridgeshire Guided Busway. Providing a five minute journey to the city centre, the Cambridgeshire Guided Busway also links to Cambridge train station. From the train station there are regular services to London’s Liverpool Street and King’s Cross stations, as well as to Stansted Airport.  By car, the M11 is only a few minutes away.