Having studied architecture in London during the 1960s, Clifford Nicholls spent the following decade establishing a firm reputation for himself as one of Britain’s foremost architects. Much of his work at this time was produced with Frost Nicholls, the firm of which he was a principal, and spanned both residential and commercial projects. Their work tended to be optimistic, maximizing light and open space, and retaining a pleasing balance of conceptual rigour and common sense.

By the end of the decade, Frost Nicholls had reached a natural conclusion and Nicholls decided to set up on his own. He immediately began to look for a location to house his new business and his growing family, and came across a charming 19th-century cottage in the spectacular Essex countryside. What was once a row of four cottages had been divided into two, one of which Nicholls bought and proceeded to extend to accommodate his needs. Luckily the house had a generously sized garden.

The resulting property, which is now on the market for the first time since Nicholls’s extension, proved a huge success and received the attention of a number of architectural publications, including Architectural Design. The location proved ideal for the frequent business trips to London that Nicholls and his staff of six had to take. The tranquility of the setting, however, and the huge, open skies for which the area is famed, also allowed for a less frenetic working environment.

Nicholls also designed and installed a range of bespoke furniture that can still be found throughout the house.