Searles Road, London SE1

“Soaring windows tower over its double-height living space, drawing light deep into the plan”

Occupying part of a former Victorian school, this light-filled apartment is distinguished by its double-height living space, lofty proportions and a sculptural staircase. Renovated in 1997 and extending to some 1217 sq ft, the interior is arranged beneath expansive glazing, with an open-plan kitchen and living area that rises to a cleverly configured mezzanine.

The Tour

Entry is to an open-plan kitchen-living-dining area. Airy and generously proportioned, the space is defined by double-height ceilings and floor-to-ceiling sash windows with white-painted shutters. Solid wood flooring runs underfoot, while white-painted cast iron radiators warm the space. Double doors open directly to the courtyard garden.

The kitchen features pastel blue lower cabinets and green upper cabinets, centred around an island in Cornish granite. Integrated Bosch appliances sit alongside carefully concealed storage behind mirrored doors and bespoke panelling. A shower room completes the ground-floor plan.

A sweeping spiral staircase creates a sculptural ascent to the mezzanine, which accommodates an additional living area and study, with original parquet flooring underfoot. The sleeping area is tucked behind double doors, with generous built-in storage. Patterned Timorous Beasties wallpaper brings a richly coloured botanical note to the bedroom. The bathroom is fitted with a bathtub and Cornish slate tiling.

Outdoor Space

Outside, the north-facing courtyard is a peaceful extension of the living space, with mature trees and established palms creating a secluded feel.

Designated secure off-street parking is available for residents.

The Area

Searles Road is well placed for the neighbourhoods of Bermondsey and Borough, with Tower Bridge Road close by. The surrounding area offers a varied mix of independent cafes, restaurants, pubs and shops.

Bermondsey Street and Maltby Street are within walking distance, home to the internationally renowned White Cube Gallery and eateries including Comptoir Gourmand, The Giddy Grocer, Watch House and Café Murano.

The green expanse of Burgess Park is 15 minutes away on foot. The park is complete with a lake, well-maintained tennis courts, adventure playground, BMX track, football and cricket pitches, a five-kilometre outdoor running track, sports centre, outdoor gym, two park cafes and the excellent Fowlds coffee shop.

There are plenty of highly regarded schooling options in the local area, including Surrey Square Primary, Phoenix Primary School, Harris Academy Bermondsey, and St Michael's Catholic College.

The apartment is exceptionally well served by numerous bus routes providing connections to the City, Waterloo and central London in under 20 minutes. Borough (Northern line) and Elephant and Castle stations (Northern line, Bakerloo line and Thameslink rail services) are within short walking distance.

Tenure: Leasehold / Lease Length: approx 970 years remaining / Service Charge: approx £3,500 per annum / Council Tax Band: F