Hermitage Road, Upper Norwood, SE19

When we first walked through the door of this house back in 2012, we knew it was something special. We'd just moved from a flat nearby with no garden and limited space, and this felt like a breath of fresh air. It was our very first home, and over the years it became so much more than that: a sanctuary, a space for entertaining, and a backdrop to countless happy memories.

From the start, we poured our hearts into it. We renovated the entire house, always keeping in mind its late 1920s charm, the beautiful fireplaces, the elegant picture rails and high ceilings. Every detail was chosen to celebrate its character while creating a comfortable, modern space for everyday living.

Downstairs, the home opens up in a way that feels generous and inviting. The kitchen is one of our favourite features, full of smart storage, perfect for cooking, chatting and sharing food with friends. The dining and living areas flow effortlessly together, leading out through double doors into a garden that still makes us smile.

The garden feels like an escape from London. It's a two-level space framed by trees and flower beds, with plenty of room for barbecues, dinner parties, or simply a quiet morning coffee in the sunshine. It's where we've spent many slow Sundays reading on the bench at the back, glass of wine in hand, soaking up the last of the day's light. It's peaceful, private, and alive with greenery, an outdoor room of its own.

Upstairs, two generous double bedrooms offer calm and comfort. The main bathroom with its large double bath and separate shower, was one of our best design decisions. It feels like a small luxury at the end of a long day. The second bedroom has been wonderfully versatile, serving as a guest room or a home office when needed.

The neighbourhood has been a real plus. Our road is leafy, friendly, and just moments from beautiful green spaces, so perfect for walks, runs, or yoga under the open sky. On weekends, we often stroll up to the Crystal Palace food market, where the community gathers over fresh produce, good coffee, and conversation. The Triangle, as locals know it, is brimming with independent shops, cosy restaurants, wine bars, and antiques and always buzzing, yet never overwhelming.

We're spoilt for choice with nearby cinemas, parks like the iconic Crystal Palace Park, and easy access to Dulwich and Beckenham for weekend cycling adventures. The connectivity has been another huge plus, an easy 8-minute walk to Gipsy Hill Station and a 12 minute walk to Crystal Palace Overground station - for trains to Victoria, London Bridge, or Balham, and plenty of bus routes and Ubers to make getting around effortless.

After 13 wonderful years, we're ready for our next chapter, but leaving this home will be bittersweet. It's given us so much joy, laughter, and comfort. Every room holds a memory, every corner tells a story. It's been more than just a house - it's been a wonderful home.