Salubrious House

The aptly-named Salubrious House once attracted some noteworthy guests, especially artists, such as potter, Bernard Leach, sculptor, Barbara Hepworth and painter, Ben Nicholson, for it was the perfect party house.  Built in 1812 for the local Mayor, its laidback coastal vibes, alluring history and fabulous Regency charm can only promote your sense of wellbeing.  This is somewhere very special indeed, an oasis of calm in one of Cornwall’s most popular locations, with its colourful artistic history, a place central to the St Ives colony of artists.

This gleaming white building houses a beautifully spacious family home, right in the centre of St Ives, built on land separating the harbour from Porthmeor Beach, affording outstanding views from every window.

From here, take in the harbour, Porthminster, Godrevy Lighthouse (inspiration for Virginia Woolf’s novel) and the gorgeous sweep of St Ives Bay, letting the creativity of this wondrous place seep into your soul.  Artist, Wilhelmina Barns-Graham, even created an illustration from the first-floor window of this mesmerising house in 1968.

The property was renovated and refurbished by the owners to retain its character and style while creating the luxury quality of a special beach property suitable for all seasons, making the most of the wonderful light-quality of St Ives.  Bleached wood, natural linens, varied textures, and stylish furnishings, accented with gold, create a homely feel styled to capture a sense of the past.  Reverse-level accommodation makes the most of the awesome views.

High standard, tasteful décor completes the lavish picture: luxurious beds, comfy sofas, relaxing family bathroom, and a log burner are all features which make this a delightful stay to remember for all the right reasons.  The huge first-floor open-plan kitchen/dining/living area is a truly sociable hub with a bespoke dining table and spectacular views, plus masses of the renowned St Ives light pouring through the huge bay windows.  An elegant kitchen and seating area complete the vision.

On the top floor, you will find the family bedroom incorporating the Crow’s Nest, the lookout for the ship owner who would watch his ships at sea and coming in to dock at the harbour.  This gives you amazing views over St Ives Bay, providing a fabulous family space. (Please note there are steep stairs to the family bedroom).

The other three large bedrooms are themed. Is your choice going to be the bright and breezy master bedroom with a king-sized cane bed?  Or coastal décor with a huge granite fireplace?  Or do you enjoy a ‘New England’ feel? Meanwhile, the luxurious family bathroom is tropical with a feature wall, and an abundance of leafy plants, a claw-foot bath for an opulent soak, and a large walk in refreshing shower.

In the garden sits a studio steeped in artistic history, providing a wonderful ‘beach hut retreat’ library/reading room with a comfy sofa and wood burner, ideal if you have some work to do.  This was Douglas Portway’s art studio, so maybe it could be yours, too. Don’t forget your watercolours!