Wray Crescent, London, N4

There’s something rather lovely about a flat that catches the light the way this one does. Set on the second floor of a handsome Victorian terrace, this two-bedroom home has been finished with a light, contemporary touch throughout, yet still holds on to plenty of period charm with its sash windows and high ceilings.

It’s the kind of flat that works as hard for a first-time buyer as it would for anyone after a well-proportioned pied-à-terre: two proper double bedrooms, a sociable open-plan living space and light pouring in through every window.

The reception and kitchen sit at the heart of the flat, spanning the width of the building and flooded with light from two large sash windows overlooking the rooftops beyond. The kitchen itself is designed in pale dove grey, fitted with shaker-style cabinetry and finished with warm brushed-copper handles and a matching gooseneck tap—a small detail that lifts the whole room. Softly patterned fretwork-style splashback tiles add texture and subtle detail.

There’s a full run of worktop and storage space, including a tall larder unit and dedicated wine rack, as well as room for a proper dining table. A three-seater sofa and armchair comfortably fill the far end of the room, making this very much a space for relaxed evenings spent reading and lounging, while being equally well suited to morning coffees by the window, watching life go by.

The hallway, meanwhile, has been cleverly fitted with open bookshelves, so even the circulation space earns its keep. It also provides access to a useful loft storage area via a ceiling hatch and pull-down ladder—an especially practical addition for keeping luggage, seasonal items and other belongings tucked neatly away. Pale, whitewashed oak-effect engineered wood flooring, laid in wide straight planks, runs consistently throughout the apartment, giving the home a bright and airy feel.

Both bedrooms are well-proportioned doubles. The principal bedroom is especially generous, with a wide sash bay window framing views of the trees and rooftops opposite, together with built-in wardrobes running the full length of one wall. The second bedroom is currently arranged as a stylish home office and snug, with a built-in desk, open shelving for books and records, and its own sash window.

The bathroom has been finished with soft, warm-grey tiling to the walls, while the bath sits behind a neat panel of white metro tiles for a touch of classic contrast. Forest-green painted walls add rich character against the muted backdrop, while chrome fittings throughout—including a heated towel rail and taps—keep everything feeling crisp.

The Neighbourhood: Stroud Green

Wray Crescent has the rare advantage of a proper green space right on its doorstep. Wray Crescent Park itself sits just along the road on Thorpedale Road and is home to Islington’s only public cricket pitch, an outdoor table-tennis table, a playground and a much-loved community vegetable garden. It has retained its Green Flag status for four consecutive years, thanks in part to a genuinely active local volunteer group.

Just a short walk away, Stroud Green Road offers a proper village feel, with independent spots such as Common Ground for coffee and pastries, The Deli at 80 for excellent bread and lunchtime treats, and Oak N4 for a glass of wine after work. Big Jo’s Bakery & Restaurant is also just around the corner—the sister venue to Newington Green’s much-loved Jolene and a firm local favourite for freshly baked bread, coffee and relaxed dining. There’s also Pretty Shiny Shop for browsing and picking up last-minute gifts that they’d never know were last minute.

For commuting, Finsbury Park Station is within easy walking distance, offering Piccadilly and Victoria line Underground services alongside National Rail and Thameslink connections into the City and beyond.