Westbourne Gardens, London, W2

Behind a handsome stucco-fronted façade, this two-bedroom apartment takes a more unexpected turn. Reimagined by Gunter & Co Interiors and winner of the 2022 Home & Gardens Award for Best Residential Project, it balances the building’s period character with a fresher, more expressive take.

The double-aspect reception room sets the tone. Original detailing has been faithfully reinstated by artisans from Stevensons of Norwich and Orac Decor, from the ceiling rose to the wall mouldings and coving. Against neutral walls and parquet flooring, the effect lets the finer details do the talking. Two bay windows draw in the light and look across tree-lined Westbourne Gardens, with one shaped into a window seat upholstered in white bouclé by La Maison Pierre Frey.

Gently curved oak and glazed doors lead through to the kitchen, where the mood shifts to something more relaxed. Custom-made by 202 Design, sage-green cabinetry climbs to the ceiling, reached by a rolling library ladder, while a breakfast bar, wine rack and coffee station are neatly concealed behind pocket doors. At the far end, a sky-blue banquette sits beneath a glass extension by McGuinness Architects, opening the room up to the sky and creating an easy place to gather.

Design choices become progressively more playful as you move downstairs towards the bedrooms. The guest bedroom is wrapped in pink polka-dot wallpaper and opens onto a small patio, while the family bathroom pairs black Maison Bahya eye-motif tiles with monochrome accents. The principal suite feels calmer by comparison. Soft pink tones wash across the walls and ceiling, with a bathtub positioned beneath the bay window and a walk-in dressing room tucked alongside. In the en suite, orange-flecked terrazzo meets forest-green shiplap, with an archway leading to a generous double shower.

Outside, a paved garden is enclosed by mature hedging and a leafy canopy overhead. There’s space for a large dining table and firepit, making it a private extension of the apartment in warmer months.

Situated between the brunch spots and boutiques of Westbourne Grove and the thrum of Paddington, Westbourne Gardens occupies an enviable position. Pick up freshly baked bagels from 101 West Deli and organic groceries from Bens, or ease into the day with brunch at Beam. Spend the weekends browsing the market stalls on Portobello Road, before stretching your legs with a walk along Paddington Basin towards Little Venice. Come evening, choose between local favourites The Cow or Cépage[s] Wine Bistro and be home in a matter of minutes.

Royal Oak – 4 mins (Circle, Hammersmith & City)