St Stephens Gardens, London, W2

Tucked away in the residential heart of Notting Hill, St Stephen’s Gardens paints a thoroughly tranquil scene with its charming period townhouses and blooming trees. Contained within one of these stucco-fronted buildings, a four-bedroom home brings this historic framework firmly into the 21st century. Two flats across the ground and lower-ground floors were converted into one – resulting in a duplex apartment with an expansive footprint and suntrap garden to capitalise on London’s warmer months.

Beyond the portico entryway, head into a sprawling open-plan living space. Sunlight beams in through a large dual-aspect fenestration, gently illuminating the Farrow & Ball-painted walls and engineered hardwood floors. High ceilings afford a capacious feel, while the low-slung Camerichsofa, rattan textures and minimalist artwork bring a relaxed, mid-century warmth.

Past the dining area, the deVOL kitchen is an uplifting setting for culinary creativity. Shaker-style cabinetry – finished in Farrow & Ball Reduced Green – are topped with bullnose marble worktops, wrapping round in an L shape and leading to a deep farmhouse sink. Throughout, high-spec appliances are seamlessly integrated – including Perrin & Rowe boiling and filtered taps, an American fridge and wifi-controlled Sonos system to soundtrack lively gatherings and quieter evenings.

Down the Sisal carpeted stairs, the principal bedroom suite maintains the home’s signature composed, calming aesthetic. A pale colour scheme envelops the space, while crisp joinery is accentuated by the Soho Home lighting. Above the built-in drawers, a mirror cleverly conceals a television. One door leads to a walk-in wardrobe, while another opens to the teal-toned en suite bathroom. Throughout this space, underfloor heating keeps things cosy.

Two guest bedrooms – currently configured as a child’s room and gym respectively – are located on the lower-ground floor, and both enjoy direct access to the private patio and garden. Outside, stone paving is dotted with verdant plants and leads up to a lawn – complete with Tikamoon furniture and a barbecue for summertime get-togethers.

On the ground floor, the fourth bedroom is a serene sanctum that overlooks the garden. Serving the guest bedrooms are two separate bathrooms: one is finished in striking rusted-hued tiles; the other has a soothing feel, with a bathtub wrapped in whitewashed stone.

Location
In a peaceful corner of Notting Hill and Bayswater, St Stephen’s Gardens offers a sense of sanctuary while remaining moments from the action. Westbourne Grove is lined with upmarket brunch spots and fitness centres, from Beam and Granger & Co., to Body Works West and Psycle. Head over to the manicured expanses of Kensington Gardens for long walks, before stocking up groceries at Daylesford Organic or Notting Hill Meat + Fish shop. For an evening steeped in atmosphere, settle into a velvet armchair at The Electric Cinema, followed by a Guinness at your beloved local – The Cow.

Westbourne Park - 3 mins (Circle, Hammersmith & City)