Alex Jones' Extensive Renovation of Historic Georgian Property in Berkshire
The One Show presenter Alex Jones is currently undertaking a significant renovation project on a Georgian property she discovered in Berkshire during summer 2024, following a four-year search for the perfect family home. The house, located near Tittenhurst Park, boasts an impressive entertainment industry heritage, having been previously owned by both John Lennon and Ringo Starr of The Beatles.
Premium Location with £1.3 Million Average House Prices
Almost two years after purchasing the property, Alex and her husband Charlie Thomson continue extensive renovation work on the home, which had been modified with what she describes as "care home chic" additions by its former elderly occupants. The location is highly desirable, with properties in neighbouring Sunningdale commanding an average price of nearly £1.3 million.
Detached homes in the area have sold for an average of £2,449,895, while semi-detached properties achieved £630,571. Alex, who recently celebrated her 49th birthday, shared with followers via Instagram that the four-bedroom house requires an additional guest space, leading to plans for a garden annexe.
Spontaneous Purchase and Family Considerations
Alex admitted she purchased the house spontaneously while her husband was visiting family in New Zealand. "When Charlie got back, I said, 'Listen, I've sort of bought a house so we better go and see it.' Luckily he loved it immediately. It felt like home when we walked in," she revealed.
The presenter emphasised her commitment to thorough preparation for this renovation project, learning from previous experience with their former home in Chiswick, west London. "We got really overexcited last time, did it all in a bit of a rush and then had to redo parts. Sometimes people put too much pressure on themselves to move in and get it all sorted," she told Homebuilding & Renovating magazine.
Renovation Details and Design Approach
The renovation includes restoring period details such as uncovering a fireplace in the playroom that had been concealed for years. Alex plans to transform the expansive, mature garden into a more tranquil and practical outdoor space while maintaining the property's original character.
She has assembled a comprehensive mood board through scrapbooking to guide the interior design. "I find the process of scrapbooking so handy as a starting point for a new project," Alex explained. "Ahead of our new renovation project I've been looking through my last scrapbook from our old house and it's really lovely to see how many ideas made it into the real things."
Strictly Come Dancing Hosting Speculation
Whether Alex will find time to press ahead with the renovation this year remains uncertain amid speculation linking her to a potential hosting role on Strictly Come Dancing this autumn. Alongside BBC Radio 2 presenter Sara Cox, Mel Giedroyc and Zoe Ball, she has been rumoured for the position, with sources suggesting the programme could be "freshened up" by introducing a third host.
Health Challenges and Wellbeing Focus
Beyond the renovation demands, Charlie has faced serious health challenges in recent years, including Lyme disease and viral meningitis, followed by a lengthy recovery. Speaking on The MidPoint, Alex noted that diet has played a significant role in his improved health.
Alex also emphasised her commitment to maintaining her own wellbeing, explaining: "I think what drives me is the fact that we have got three young children, and I feel, for them, I need to do the best to preserve myself." The couple welcomed their third child Annie in 2021.
The extensive renovation project continues as Alex balances her television career, family responsibilities, and potential new opportunities in the entertainment industry.
