Benson House, London SE1

This remarkable two-bedroom apartment lies on the ground floor of a handsome 1950s block in Southwark. Characterised by generous proportions and an abundance of natural light, the space has been thoughtfully renovated by the current owners. Neutral walls are offset with colourful built-in pieces by Uncommon Projects, expertly crafted to maximise use of space. Carefully chosen finishes and elegant, restored parquet flooring complement the renovation throughout. A spacious private balcony overlooks a peaceful communal garden. Southwark Underground station is a one-minute walk away, providing access all over London via the Jubilee line.



The Tour



Accessed via a neat communal hallway on the ground floor, an intercom system provides admittance to the building. Within the apartment, crisp white walls allow a reflection of light that pours in from the front and rear of the plan. Refurbished parquet flooring laid in a herringbone pattern runs underfoot, providing warmth and texture with its sunny undertones, while reminiscent of the building's mid-century origins.



Immediately to the right lies the bespoke kitchen by Uncommon Projects. Here, smart plywood units with exposed edges and a combination of red and lilac lacquered cupboards unfold in a practical U-shape configuration that continues above the doorway, making the most of the vertical space. A sleek white Corian worktop provides ample preparation space. A stainless steel sink is fitted with a Quooker hot water tap, with a window above framing views of the leafiness of the communal garden beyond. Integrated appliances include a Bora induction hob, fridge-freezer, and dishwasher, while subtle concrete-effect tiled flooring complements the colourful units.



A voluminous sitting room lies to the rear of the plan, anchored by a fireplace, the surround of which features tiles with a pretty Japanese geometric motif. A tripartite window allows a verdant view and original windowsill tiles demonstrate period character. The space is elevated by custom-made joinery, also by Uncommon Projects, in the form of a wall-mounted television cabinet and open plywood shelving, serving as the ideal spot for displaying decorative ceramics and best-loved books. Glass doors open to a private balcony with peaceful views of the building's communal green. There is space for chairs and a small bistro table.



The principal bedroom is positioned to the front of the plan, with expansive east-facing windows drawing in soft morning light and a generous red and plumb-coloured ply wardrobe. There is a second bedroom also on this side of the apartment, currently used as an office, complete with an additional floor-to-ceiling wardrobe in bright yellow tones. As throughout the rest of the space, both bedrooms are warmed by attractive column radiators in the cooler months. The shared bathroom has built-in ply cabinets in a muted shade of teal and a smart shower over bath decorated with slate tiles.



Outdoor Space



Accessible from the living room is a west-facing balcony, with views toward the leafy communal gardens and space for a small table and chairs, ideal for enjoying the last of the day's sun. Mature planting beyond includes maple trees and established shrubbery, creating visual interest and shaded spots for picnicking in the summer.



The Area



Hatfields is brilliantly positioned for transport links and within easy walking distance of The Cut, Tate Modern, and Borough Market in Southwark.



Just on the doorstep, The Cut is home to both the Young and Old Vic and many convenient local amenities, as well as popular restaurants The Anchor and Hope, Ristorante Olivelli and Meson Don Felipe. Traditional pub The Kings Arms is very much in keeping with its Victorian setting and is a short stroll away. There are some lovely independent shops on Lower Marsh, of note are Lower, Greensmiths, and Little Bread Peddlar.



The South Bank is 15-minute walk to the north. Here can be found Tate Modern, National Theatre, the BFI and Festival Hall, as well as some excellent restaurants and bars. Flat Iron Square, Maltby Street Market and Borough Market are all within walking distance. We've written more about our recommendations in the area in our Journal.



For those seeking greenery, the grounds of the Imperial War Museum have lovely spaces to sit on the lawn beneath shady trees. The River Thames is a short stroll away and the Thames Walk heads towards green spaces on the banks along the river.



There are excellent schooling options in the area, including Charles Dickens Primary School and The Cathedral School of St Saviour and St Mary Overie.



Southwark station is around the corner, with the Jubilee line reaching Green Park in five minutes. Waterloo station is a five-minute walk from the house, with six-minute journeys to Oxford Circus and railway links across the country. London Bridge is also within easy reach, offering quick connections to Gatwick Airport and several seaside destinations.



Tenure: Leasehold / Lease Length: Approx. 105 years remaining / Service Charge (inc. Ground Rent): Approx. £2,310 per annum / Council Tax Band: B