A contemporary gallery-like home with countless credentials in Hampstead
When it comes to contemporary homes, nothing sets the tone like an eye-catching façade. We love those that induce a double take and stop us in our tracks – and this home ticks those boxes. Designed by Guard Tillman Pollock, it resembles a white cube from the street, appearing more akin to an art gallery than a family home – as does many of the practice’s projects. In this instance, the firm has taken inspiration from functional, modernist buildings to create a boxy, stripped-back structure that contrasts most curiously with its period neighbours and the London stock brick wall it sits behind.
Inside, there are many lovely living spaces to lust over. The lower ground, for instance, includes a secluded studio (the current owner and client is an artist) that could easily be converted to suit all sorts of needs. It opens to a peaceful courtyard and has access to its own kitchenette and a modest bedroom, which is ideal for those in need of a creative retreat away from the rest of the house. But our favourite area might just be the living room on the ground floor, which lets the natural light do the talking. Here, when the sun shines and the surrounding trees are in leaf, the floor-to-ceiling windows welcome in the most extraordinary dappled light. The delicate shadows dance across the poured concrete floor and simple white walls, which prevent the otherwise minimalist scheme from feeling too stark.
Outdoor space, however, is gold – and this home has lots of it. Even with a full house, there should be a quiet balcony (two bedrooms have access to one), patio or tree-lined terrace where one can take a breather. If not, don’t fret: one of the capital’s greatest green spaces is practically on the doorstep. Located in an enviable position in north-west London, the house is minutes away from Hampstead Heath, where lush fields and alfresco swimming spots offer escapism from the city.
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