Imperial Court, Prince Albert Road, London NW8

This handsome apartment lies on the third floor of Imperial Court, a remarkable building opposite the leafy expanse of Regent’s Park. Its wide banks of glazing capture mesmerising views and usher in a soothing southerly light. Spanning over 1,530 sq ft, the immaculately designed apartment has two private en suite bedrooms, along with a flexible open-plan living space at its core. Less than 10 minutes from St John’s Wood High Street, Imperial Court is exceptionally placed for a wealth of wonderful delis, restaurants, parks and schools.

The Building

Built in 1978, Imperial Court’s elegant exterior draws on the modernist styles that preceded it. Wide windows wrap around its exterior, drawing in plenty of light and fostering an unfaltering connection with the park opposite.

It has a brilliant array of amenities, including a 24-hour concierge, a gym, beautifully maintained communal areas and a cultivated communal garden. The apartment also has an allocated space to park one car.

The Tour

Well-tended greenery lies in front of the building, with a path that guides towards the communal lobby. A lift ascends to this apartment’s private entrance on the building’s third floor.

On entry, the consideration that has gone into the apartment’s exceptional finish (which was overseen by an interior designer) is immediately apparent; a consciously simple backdrop acts as a blank canvas for furniture and/or art. Directly ahead is a neat WC, and to the left, the open-plan living area unfolds.

The latter is a versatile, expansive space that opens to a generous private terrace at its furthest end, with a sitting area in front. South-facing, the room is doused in natural light and has electric blinds. Tucked around the corner, but with a direct line of sight to the reception area, is a large, dual-aspect dining area - perfect for hosting and weeknight suppers alike.

On one side of the open-plan living space is a bright kitchen, with cupboards in a U-shape. Beautiful countertops wrap around the room, and appliances have been subtly concealed. There is also a filtered water tap, a boiling water tap and automatic waste disposal. The remainder of the room is occupied by built-in banquette seating opposite tall cupboards.

The principal suite is especially spacious and has two banks of built-in wardrobes, one mirrored. A window runs the width of one wall, the apartment’s elevation capturing treetop-skimming views over Regent’s Park. There is a large en suite, finished with a Japanese Toto toilet and a walk-in steam shower. On one side is a large walk-in wardrobe.

Presently used as a study, the second bedroom lies at the opposite end of the bedroom - an arrangement that enhances privacy and a sense of spaciousness. Its beautiful en suite bathroom lies behind a subtle pocket door.

Air conditioning has been fitted across the apartment, allowing for an optimal temperature year-round.

This apartment also has a separate store.

Outdoor Space

Running parallel to the living room, the balcony is astonishingly generous. It has plenty of room for tables, chairs and sun loungers, and is surrounded by raised beds. South-facing, it receives the best of the light and has unobstructed views out to Regent’s Park.

There is also a communal garden to the rear of the house. Mature trees cast pockets of shade for reading beneath, while a stretch of lawn is wonderful for picnicking or relaxing.

The Area

Imperial Court is exceptionally placed for some of north-west London’s favourite haunts, as well as for access to central London; both Marylebone, with its excellent independent shops and restaurants, and the West End can be reached on foot.

St John’s Wood is also known for its landmarks, including Abbey Road recording studios and Lord’s Cricket Ground. Its leafy residential streets are filled with fine 19th-century homes juxtaposed with excellent examples of 20th-century modernist apartments and houses.

The apartment is around eight minutes’ walk from the shops, cafés and restaurants of St John’s Wood High Street, where brilliant purveyors include Gail’s Bakery, Y gen and the much-lovedPanzer’s delicatessens. Soutine is considered to be one of the best restaurants in the area.

Less than 15 minutes’ walk to the north-east, across the wonderful Primrose Hill, is Regent’s Park Road and Primrose Hill Village, with further excellent shops and restaurants including Odette’s, Lemonia, Greenberry Café, Melrose and Morgan, and Primrose Bakery; Primrose Hill Farmer’s Market runs every Saturday morning and is particularly popular.

The wide-open parkland of Regent’s Park is opposite the apartment, with its boating lake, famed rose gardens, open-air theatre and large wetland area; the Canal on the northern perimeter nearest Cherry Tree House offers a lovely walk towards Little Venice to the west. Laid out over some 395 acres, it is one of London’s eight Royal Parks and was named after the Prince Regent, later George IV. Its history extends further back, however, with it originally being King Henry VIII’s hunting ground.

There are a number of excellent local independent preparatory schools, with Saint Christina’s School directly opposite Cherry Tree House; Arnold House School, Abercorn School, North Bridge House School and The Hall School are either a short walk or drive away. Other independent schools, including London’s best-regarded, can be reached easily on public transport.

St John’s Wood station (Jubilee line) is a 12-minute walk from the apartment and is just two stops from Bond Street (Jubilee, Central and Elizabeth lines).

Tenure: Leasehold / Lease Length: Approx. 952 years remaining / Service Charge: Approx. £12,000 per annum / Ground Rent: £1 per annum / Council Tax Band: H