Why this mid-century apartment in Crystal Palace scores top marks
As anyone familiar with Crystal Palace can attest, it’s one of the leafiest corners in the capital – and arguably, that’s partly due to the work of Austin Vernon & Partners. In 1954, the local practice were called upon to redesign what would become known as the Dulwich Estate, which was tired and damaged following the impact of World War II. They planted spinneys, parkland and communal gardens, creating a tranquil urban environment that feels worlds apart from the hustle and bustle of the heart of the city (even though it’s only a short train ride away). The homes they built are defined by their openness and wide swathes of glass, which are perfect for looking out to the meticulously crafted verdant views.
These days, this particular apartment is so peaceful you’d be forgiven for thinking you weren’t in London at all. That is until you look out of the expansive floor-to-ceiling windows in the reception room and take in the dramatic city skyline beyond the treetops. In this living space, the current owners have painted the walls an understated grey that, along with the simple wooden floors, lets the surrounding scenery do the talking. It’s an approach that’s echoed in the minimal kitchen too, where white walls contrast nicely with sleek black cabinetry, adding a contemporary touch to the distinctly mid-century apartment. Meanwhile, the bedroom, which also feels cocooned in greenery, has been painted a darker shade of grey, resulting in a restful space.
The home’s most spectacular feature, however, is the vast south-facing terrace. There’s plenty of room for a large dining table and chairs, meaning it’s perfect for entertaining on balmy evenings in summer – ideally with a sundowner in hand. But it’s a real beauty in winter too, particularly with the current set-up, where a large sofa calls for curling up under a blanket with a hot drink. And just think of the views at midnight on New Year’s Eve…
RELATED ON THE MODERN HOUSE
Listing of the Week: a Norfolk beauty that ushers the natural world in
A family home in Hackney, lovingly tended inside and out
Zen and the art of mindset maintenance in a former warehouse in east London
A duo’s dramatic warehouse conversion hidden in west London
Inside two carbon-negative zero-waste homes in Walthamstow
Skye’s the limit at this home in a serene settlement in the Scottish Highlands
An apartment with star quality in a converted recording studio in west London
A mid-century marvel in Stafford that stands the test of time
A hotel with staying power overlooking the Atlantic in the Outer Hebrides of Scotland
A mid-century gem among the treetops on the Dulwich Estate in Crystal Palace