Flat Apartment, Oakley Street, London

A prime location at the heart of Chelsea, Oakley Street runs the short distance from the King’s Road down to the Thames. Rebuilt by the Cadogans on the former grounds of Winchester House, it has been collecting residents of note ever since. Now, the setting still functions as first intended, carrying you from the noise of Chelsea’s high street to the quiet of the water in minutes.

This apartment occupies the lower two floors of its terrace, and reorders the routine: living and garden above, sleeping below. Redesigned in 2024, the interiors are consistently considered – walnut, marble and panelled walls, plus a neutral palette that ties it all together. Inside, the reception room is bright and welcoming, with chevron oak underfoot and a Chesneys Arabescato marble fireplace. Full-height walnut joinery frames the opening through to the kitchen; a built-in bar features a diamond wine rack and drinks cabinet.

Beyond, the Bakehouse kitchen is clean-lined and contemporary. Arabescato marble is bookmatched across the worktop and splashback, then cut once more from the same slab to form the dining table. Neff appliances sit integrated behind walnut fronts, joined by a wine fridge and boiling water tap. The neighbouring study comes fitted with built-in joinery, and direct access to the private patio garden. South-east facing and stepped, it’s enclosed by brick with mature planting spilling down the walls.

Downstairs, the principal bedroom invites rest. Pared-back tones instill a calm feel, with floor-to-ceiling antiqued mirrors reflecting light. Custom Neatsmith wardrobes are tucked into the dressing room; the en suite impresses with Calacatta marble tiling, a freestanding Lusso Stone bath and aged brass fittings. The second bedroom is panelled in dove grey with a tall arched wardrobe – and served by a shower room finished in Nero marble.

Beneath the surface, the specification is equally considered. Underfloor heating warms the study and both bathrooms, a Nest panel controls the system from the hallway and water filtration runs throughout.

Oakley Street runs the short distance from the King’s Road to Cheyne Walk and the river, placing you close to Chelsea’s hotspots, with the added tranquility of the riverside. Fifty Cheyne sits just down the road, flower-covered and reliably good for a roast. The Phene is round the corner with one of the neighbourhood’s best outdoor spots. The Physic Garden and the Embankment are a few minutes south, Albert Bridge lit up beyond them, and Battersea Park is a walk across the water. The King’s Road delivers Bluebird, Duke of York Square on a Saturday morning and the Saatchi Gallery. For special occasions, book a table at two-Michelin-starred Claude Bosi at Bibendum.

South Kensington – 14 mins
Sloane Square – 17 mins