Opening the lid on Box Cottage in Harwell reveals a property which clearly shows appearances can be deceptive.

Once a traditional, two-up and two-down cottage, the property is now a spacious family home.

It was the potential in the property which attracted owners Katy and Steve Gorman, who bought it in 2005.

Mrs Gorman, who used to own Pottering About, a mobile paint your own pottery business, said: “At the time we were living in Abingdon and looking for a property to convert.

“When we viewed Box Cottage we appreciated it needed some upgrading but realised the ground floor could be opened up to create a spacious family home.”

Built in 1810, the property had previously been extended in the Victorian era and in the 1990s.

However, the couple carried out extensive internal alterations to form an impressive L-shaped kitchen/dining area which has been finished to a high standard.

The handmade kitchen features granite worksurfaces, double bowl Belfast sink, a Bosch combination oven, three-ring gas hob and a two-oven Aga which also supplies hot water.

The cottage has also been redecorated and boasts oak flooring in several of the bedrooms, playroom and bathroom There are three reception rooms, four bedrooms and a first-floor home office/study.

The master bedroom has an en-suite bathroom featuring a freestanding roll-top bath and a shower cubicle There is parking for several cars and a pretty enclosed garden.

The Gormans, who have an 11-month-old daughter, Greer, are moving to Italy where they are buying a property to renovate.

Mrs Gorman, who intends to teach English as a foreign language, added: “We will miss all our friends and the community spirit in the village.”

Mr Gorman, who was a technical illustrator for 20 years, will be carrying out the renovation work and looking after their daughter.

The cottage has a guide price of £625,000.

To arrange a viewing, call Summertown-based agent John D Wood on 01865 311522.