Here at United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty, we believe there are few things in life as awe-inspiring as exceptionally designed homes. We are proud, then, to showcase and sell some of the most remarkable examples of contemporary architecture across the UK. From an extraordinary light-filled house in North Kensington to a show-stopping apartment in Battersea Power Station, here are five of our most beautifully conceived properties currently on the market.
Chesham Place, Belgravia, London
Any architecture aficionado who’s strolled past the boutique development, 21 Chesham Place, in Belgravia, will have likely paused to take in its exquisite brutalist-style façade. The building was designed by Foster and Partners, the global practice whose elite clients include Apple and luxury fashion designer Gabriela Hearst, so it's hardly surprising that it’s first class. But, as this five-bedroom apartment proves, things get even better when inside. It boasts a whole host of covetable credentials, from pleasing parquet flooring to a wonderful walk-through wardrobe and stunning light feature. Meanwhile, the refined scheme, which comes alive in the natural light that streams through wall-to-wall windows, will induce compliments from the most discerning visitors. An interiors tip: draw inspiration from the current set-up, in which cult furniture and art have been employed to pack in pops of punchy colour.
Barlby Road, North Kensington, London
Designed by award-winning studio Powell Tuck Associates, this five-bedroom, three-storey house is utterly exquisite. The slick contemporary façade conceals a series of beautifully designed living spaces in which tactile materials, such as wood and concrete, command the eye. Huge swathes of glazing invite abundant light and frame lush views of the south-facing garden (designed by award-winning landscaper Stuart Craine) and several tranquil courtyards planted with tropical trees. These peaceful pockets of outdoor space make the house feel like an oasis of calm, despite its North Kensington location. The free-flowing living spaces are at once serene and striking, featuring a cantilevered staircase and bespoke fireplaces that serve as beautiful focal points.
Pitt Street, Kensington, London
If you’ve ever happened to come across the work of Mike Spink, founder of acclaimed practice Spink, you’ll know that considered houses built to absolute precision are his speciality. This remarkable home in Kensington, which was designed by the British architect, is a testament to his prowess. The white-painted exterior, which features large amounts of glazing, stands out among its period neighbours as a symbol of contemporary design. Inside, the well-lit living spaces that extend over five floors measure more than 11,000 sq ft and include six bedrooms, five reception areas, a cinema and a wine cellar. The lower-ground floor plays host to an elegant swimming pool and sauna, which are among the finest jewels in this property’s crown.
Circus Road North, Battersea, London
When we heard that part of Battersea Power House was going to be converted into apartments, we knew they were going to be special. But this penthouse, located within the historic Boiler house, is perhaps one of London’s best. Unfolding over the 11th and 12th floor and measuring more than 6,100 sq ft internally, the living spaces have been meticulously conceived by the world-renowned, New York-based practice, Joe Serrins Studio. Impressive amounts of Crittall-style glazing have been used throughout, resulting in enviable bright and airy interiors. There are also five private outdoor spaces, including a large terrace with an expansive dining area that sits underneath one of Battersea Power House’s four iconic furnaces. And then there’s the private rooftop that sits atop the building and provides the most spectacular 360-degree city views.
Burnham Beeches, Farnham Common, Slough
This outstanding eight-bedroom home has many hallmarks of modernist design – a sleek rectangular façade, a flat roof and floor-to-ceiling windows. In fact, it’s a prime example of contemporary architecture, with newly built interiors that draw in lots of natural light. Situated on the edge of Burnham Beeches, a glorious nature reserve just west of Farnham Common, its location is perfect for those who have a penchant for outdoor pursuits. Not only is this property surrounded by beautiful woodland, but it has access to private grounds measuring 10 acres and comprising lush lawns and neatly planted trees. Like all the best modernist homes, the interiors have been designed to draw the outdoors in, with the large windows allowing plenty of greenery to be seen from the minimal living spaces.
