Halliwell Court, London SE22

This bright two-bedroom south-east London apartment has been beautifully renovated by its architect-owner. It occupies a quiet, top-floor position within a 1950s-built block with leafy, far-reaching views and a delightful communal garden. Peckham Rye is a short walk away, as is characterful Dulwich Village.



The Tour



Entry to the building is via communal areas and a sweeping staircase emblematic of the era’s design. This apartment’s front door opens to an L-shaped hallway in the centre of the plan. The current owners’ desire to maintain the home’s authentic period feel is palpable, right down to the authentic, walnut-finish Bakelite handles sourced and added throughout. The spaces have been carefully colour-toned in warm neutrals, perfectly pitched to capture the bright morning sun at the front of the plan and the softer evening light at the rear.



The living room is a bright space with two windows and walls finished with the soft white of Farrow & Ball's 'Dimity'. Carpet runs underfoot, and an arched alcove provides display shelves for books, photos and ceramics.



Opposite the living space is the kitchen, which has been cleverly opened up to maximise space and light. It features bespoke fair-faced birch plywood cabinets with a natural oil finish and a smooth Corian counter. Appliances are integrated and include a double oven and induction hob, and a ceramic, Belfast-style sink rests below a window at the far end of the room. Underfoot is colour-matched rubber flooring.



Both bedrooms are peaceful, quiet spaces. The larger has built-in wardrobes and room for a desk. Across the hall, the former bathroom and WC have been thoughtfully combined by the architect to create a single, efficient layout. Finished with small square tiles, a bespoke plywood vanity unit, warm gold-toned detailing, tapware and Lusso Stone rainfall shower over the bath.



Outdoor Space



A wonderful communal garden with a picnic bench and a children’s play area is shared by residents of the building. It is studded with mature trees and has several benches for an afternoon of reading in the summer. There is a secure space for storing bikes.



The Area



Halliwell Court sits between Dulwich, Camberwell, and Peckham, brilliantly located for beautiful parks and well-regarded restaurants. The latter is well-represented along Lordship Lane, a short walk away, where favourites include Yard Sale pizza, Mons Cheesemongers, Moxons Fishmongers and Blue Brick café. Also notable is the homeware and plant shop Forest, as well as the East Dulwich Picturehouse.



Dulwich Village is around a 25-minute walk from the house. Here, Dulwich Picture Gallery, England’s first purpose-built art gallery designed by the Regency architect Sir John Soane, runs a brilliant programme of exhibitions and events and has a delightful café. The Horniman Museum and Gardens in Forest Hill are also easily reached.



There are several excellent state and private schools in the area. Transport connections are aplenty: there are several local bus routes, and East Dulwich station is around 10 minutes’ walk away. Peckham Rye station is around 20 minutes on foot or is a short bus journey away.



Tenure: Leasehole / Lease Length: Approx. 99 years remaining / Service Charge: Approx. £2,100 per annum / Ground Rent: Approx. £10 per annum / Council Tax Band: B