Sparkford House, London SW11

“An modernist apartment with elevated views across London”

This two-bedroom apartment occupies a sought-after position on the 18th floor of Sparkford House, a 1960s design by British modernist architect Colin Lucas. The interiors have been meticulously renovated by Tracy Byles-Walker of Lion Witch Wardrobe and Faer Studio, with sensitive interventions that honour the building’s original character. Set high above Battersea, the apartment enjoys exceptional, towering views of the River Thames and the city skyline through impressive picture windows.

The Tour

This particular apartment sits on the 18th floor of Sparkford House with lift access.

The open-plan kitchen and living room forms the heart of the home and is oriented towards outstanding views across the River Thames. Distinct zones for cooking, dining, and sitting are subtly delineated, and wide proportions hint at the buliding’s mid-century origins. Designed by Tracey Byles-Walker and made by Conran Studios, the modular kitchen can be reimagined as desired. Distinguished oak cabinetry is book-matched to the floorboards underfoot and paired with contemporary stainless-steel countertops. Tracey Byles-Walker also designed the kitchen table, the settee and the side tables, which were all built by Conran Studios.

There are two well-proportioned bedrooms, each with built-in storage and tall windows that frame clear sightlines across London. A series of subtle interventions has enhanced the sense of light and volume, including transom windows that allow natural light to be carried through.

The shower room features a built-in hardwood bench, and has a curved wall to make best use of the space. Here, the cabinetry is designed by Tracy Byles-Walker and crafted by Box Metal Cabinet Makers.

The Area

Sparkford House sits on Battersea Church Road, close to Battersea Square. Locally, there are several places to eat and drink, including Mazar Lebanese restaurant and Vinos y Licores for tapas. The building also lies within easy walking distance (or a short bus or cycle ride) to Chelsea.

Battersea Bridge can be reached via the Thames Path, where the Royal College of Art campus, designed by Herzog and de Meuron, the offices of Foster + partners and Vivienne Westwood make up Battersea’s cultural quarter. A short walk beyond are the 200 acres of Battersea Park with playing fields, tennis courts, a children’s zoo, a boating lake and the Pump House Gallery. The Pear Tree Café beside the lake provides vibrant evenings of live music with food by ex-Petersham Nurseries alumni Annabel Partridge and Will Burrett.

The area is renowned for its prestigious schools, with Thomas’s and L’Ecole de Battersea both nearby. Bus connections are excellent, and trains run from Clapham Junction to Waterloo, Victoria and Gatwick Airport every few minutes.

Tenure: Leasehold | Lease Length: Approx. 123 years remaining | Service Charge: £1,800 per annum | Ground Rent: £0 | Council Tax Band: C