Oakley Gardens, London, SW3

Sitting on the site of a former Victorian dairy house and with an untouched stucco façade, Oakley Gardens appears to wear a distinctly traditional guise. But beyond the front door, striking design adds contemporary flair to a townhouse with impressive eco credentials.

The stone-tiled hallway sets the tone: understated yet elegant. Off to one side, a generous double reception room stretches the depth of the house, where period detailing sings. Ornate cornicing traces the perimeter of high ceilings, and a carved stone fireplace anchors the room, all of which is doused in natural light from the full-height sash window. A seating area occupies one end of the space, while the other enjoys a marble table and pouffe chairs – designed with hosting in mind. An internal window enhances the sense of space. At the end of the entrance hall, a quiet and considered study enjoys views out over the courtyard garden through a Crittall-style door.

The heart of the home lies below. On the garden level, a striking kitchen and dining space opens up – flooded with natural light from a ridge skylight and large rear windows. A central wooden island with a marble worktop provides the centrepiece, framed by shaker-style cabinetry and premium appliances and features, including a Lacanche range cooker and an Officine Gullo sink. Through an archway adorned in dusky pink tiles, a walk-in pantry adds both storage and a splash of playful colour. To the front, a cosy family room invites relaxed evenings, while a boot room with outdoor access speaks to the home’s practical side.

Beyond the Crittall-style doors, the courtyard garden is a peaceful extension of the interior. Whitewashed walls, raised flower beds and integrated bench seating create an inviting spot for al fresco dining – private and effortlessly low-maintenance.

Upstairs, a calming palette and heritage finishes bring cohesion to the sleeping quarters. The principal suite spans the first floor, featuring bespoke joinery, a velvet headboard and access to a marble-clad en suite with dual vanity and impressive double rainfall showers. A pink-toned dressing room with a statement ceiling injects a creative touch to this level.

At the top of the house, the guest bedroom is serene and tactile, its olive-toned walls complementing a grand upholstered bed, and access to a private roof terrace. A family bathroom serves this room, with rustic red panelling, checkerboard tiles and a bath within an arched alcove combining to create a space that’s both functional and full of flair.

Location
The best of Chelsea is at your doorstep. Start your mornings with a vinyasa flow session at Triyoga followed by easy-going brunch at Bluebird. Head to the boutiques that line The King’s Road then stop at the Saatchi Gallery for contemporary art. Stroll upwards to the world-class museums of South Kensington, or down for long walks along the River Thames. Fine dining comes naturally to this neighbourhood: Italian restaurant Ziani was co-founded by a direct descendant of the Venetian Doge, or Michelin-starred The Five Fields or Claude Bosi at Bibendum are close by for special occasions.

South Kensington – 17 mins (Circle, District, Piccadilly)
Sloane Square – 17 mins (Circle, District)