House, Monmouth Road, London

Monmouth Road quietens as it goes, and this house sits at its calmest point. Set back from the road behind lush greenery and a majestic plane tree, it keeps the street at arm’s length. A climbing plant winds up the curved façade and loops the first-floor balcony, softening the approach and marking the house out as its own.

The calm carries across all four floors, where period detail and contemporary ease are combined throughout. On the ground floor, the double reception runs dual aspect – morning light from the east, the last of the evening from the west. A wood burner anchors one end, warm against soft tones and a high ceiling that lets the space breathe. Close the dividing doors and the far end becomes a room of its own: an atmospheric reading space with fitted wooden bookcases and a marble fireplace. A small anteroom sits beyond, ready to work as a study or exercise room, its Juliet balcony opening to the air.

Upstairs, the kitchen makes the most of a generous width – granite surfaces, white handleless cabinetry and integrated appliances, composed and unfussy. The dining room alongside is where the household gathers, its floor-to-ceiling sash windows opening onto a slim cast-iron balcony that draws a breeze through.

Natural light, neutral tones and wooden floors carry through the bedrooms. Two sit on the second floor, each with fitted storage, sharing a family bathroom wrapped in marbled tile. The top floor belongs to the principal suite, drawn in light from a skylight and opening to its own terrace – a quiet reprieve at the crown of the house. Its en suite follows suit, a large rainfall shower at its centre.

Situated just off Westbourne Grove – the main artery between Bayswater and Notting Hill – the best of both neighbourhoods is in strolling distance. Everything you need is on the doorstep; pick up groceries from Bens, or ease into the day with coffee at Prezzemolo e Vitale, both metres away. The weekends are made for brunching at Beam or Granger & Co., followed by treasure hunting along Portobello Road or a walk around Holland Park. Closer to home, make The Princess Royal your local. For haute cuisine, there’s two-Michelin-starred The Ledbury; dine here and be home in minutes.

Bayswater – 9 mins (District, Circle)
Royal Oak – 10 mins (Hammersmith & City, Circle)
Notting Hill Gate – 11 mins (Central, Circle, District)