House Party: the best homes for hosting

There are many things that make for successful hosting at home: a considered drinks menu, feel-good music, mood lighting, and of course, the right guest list. But perhaps one of the most important things is the setting. Whether you’re looking forward to entertaining larger parties as restrictions ease or are simply in need of an enticing backdrop to throw intimate dinners, we’ve rounded up some of the best homes for sale that rival professional venues – from a spacious warehouse conversion in south east London to a contemporary masterpiece in the countryside of Warwickshire.

Ghost House, Moreton Paddox, Warwickshire

Ghost House in Warwickshire is contemporary architectural design at its best. The combination of the full-height Crittall windows, its rectangular form, and the material palette of almost entirely concrete make it an opportune – and impressive – space to host. After all, it was previously shortlisted for RIBA’s House of the Year award – a  fact to drop into conversation, perhaps. There’s enough capacity at this brutalist building for a grand blowout with a generous guest list – plus ones are welcome – and perhaps even a musical performer. Naturally, such a well-designed, gallery-like space will require a dress code of fashionable attire and an impeccable cocktail menu. Negroni, anyone? 

Brunel Road, London SE16

Located within a private gated mews between Bermondsey and Canada Water, south east London, this former factory is likely to play host to a grown-up affair. While there’s vast space in the five-bedroom home, we imagine the guest list will be both carefully considered and limited to ensure the contemporary design can be appreciated at all times. The evening’s entertainment will take place on the second floor, where attendees can wine and dine at the refectory table placed thoughtfully in reach of the drinks cabinet. After dinner, retreat to the large sofa area or roof garden to conclude an evening of jazz and cultured conversation with a nightcap. 

Fishpool Street, St Albans, Hertfordshire

Looking for somewhere to accommodate close friends or family? With beautiful views of the Verulamium Park and the River Ver, this Grade II-listed home in the conservation area of St Albans, Hertfordshire, was built for a weekend of long country walks, quality home cooking, and lively board games around the table. After hours – and a few beverages – make like the current owners and spin music records into the night. You may even find yourself pushing the dining table to one side to create a temporary dancefloor.

Doyce Street, London SE1

This former perfume warehouse in Borough, south east London, is designed for good times. They’ll be no early exits here: its four expansive floors will encourage guests to explore and mingle the night away. While the lower-ground floor is currently used as a studio, we think it would make an excellent space for a nightclub-inspired dancefloor. Take interior cues from the owners who have a giant glittering disco ball and conversation-starting art, meaning guests will never dry of conversation. And we’re yet to mention private roof terrace: enjoy views of the London skyline as the sun sets – or, for all-night party-goers, rises.

Limehouse Cut, Morris Road, London E14

Is there a better backdrop for a sun-filled soiree than this penthouse apartment in Limehouse, east London? Its private roof terrace promises to be the most delightful spot for a summer BBQ – likewise, an Aperol Spritz or two. The light-filled interior is equally as joyous with nautical-esque decor reminiscent of seaside homes – note its white wood paneling and porthole, for example. And here’s a tip: for those in need of an inspiring guestlist, be sure to invite the neighbours. As one of the oldest former warehouses in east London, it was converted by a consortium of artists in the 1980s and sold as shells to painters and sculptors – many of whom still live and work here today.

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