Why this Grade II-listed house in Hampstead, north-west London, is a true mid-century masterpiece
Michael Brawne is best known for his books and cultural – rather than residential – buildings. One of his most famous projects, for example, is the National Library of Sri Lanka, which opened in 1990. He subsequently conceived more libraries and museums, and even went on to curate numerous art exhibitions too. But that’s what makes this rare house so enticing.
Brawne designed the home for himself and his family after scoring the plot of fellow architect Brian Housden. At the time, he was working in the office of Sir Denys Lasdun after training at the Architectural Association. This project, completed in 1960, sharpened his architectural skillset so much so, it led Brawne to found his own practice in 1963.
The house lies in a particularly lush part of Hampstead, only a short walk from the green expanses of its heath and the blue waters of its ponds. Brawne was sure to make the most of its location, designing the house with three storeys in a palette largely of glazing, so that there are verdant views aplenty from within the house. The leafy treetops in summer are a lovely sight, but there’s nothing that connects you more to nature like watching them evolve with the seasons.
Mid-century purists will be delighted to learn that many of the home’s features are original, dating back to 1959, the year of its construction. The golden-hued timber of the charming modular kitchen, wood-panelled ceilings and open-tread staircases give the interior a warm and wonderful glow. There’s even bespoke furniture designed by Brawne fitted within the space, including a number of wooden desks, where we can picture the architect scrawling away.
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