Completed in 2017 to a design by Henley Halebrown Architects, Barley Court lies on the edge of the newly re-imagined Kings Crescent Estate, between Clissold Park and the broad, leafy streets of Highbury. Surrounded by communal gardens and landscaped areas designed by Muf architecture, community lies at the heart of the masterplan, which was developed in collaboration with Karakusevic Carson Architects. This bright two-bedroom apartment occupies a quiet corner that looks to the park.

Thoughtfully conceived communal areas lead to the fifth floor, where entry is to a large hallway. The open-plan living room and kitchen is arranged in an L-shape around the balcony, with floor-to-ceiling windows. The outdoor space functions much like a sun-room and has views over the newly-finished ‘playstreet’ by Muf architects and to the parkland beyond.

The kitchen is neatly fitted in the corner of the living spaces with white cabinetry and Smeg appliances, to allow plenty of room for a dining table. Beyond this are two bedrooms and the bathroom, arranged along the hallway which also has a large storage cupboard and concealed utility room. Careful attention has been paid to the proportions and finishes in the whole apartment, with engineered-oak flooring, huge single-pane anodised windows and unusually high ceilings.

The architects worked collaboratively with local residents when designing the new buildings for the Clissold Quarter, and renovating the existing housing. Both Henley Halebrown and Karakusevic Carson Architects were formed with a strong focus on raising standards in social housing design and public buildings in the UK. By undertaking the project as a whole, they created a landscape that fulfilled the needs of both existing and new residents and opened-up the space to the public with new walkways that connect the park to Highbury and Islington. Residents were involved throughout the process, with regular steering-group meetings and public consultation events. The outcome is an arrangement of buildings that re-integrates the existing 1970s buildings with their Victorian surroundings and open public spaces.

Barley Court is a 12-minute walk Arsenal and Manor House Underground stations (both Piccadilly line) while Finsbury Park Station (Victoria & Piccadilly line) is not much further and also has Overground services to the South Coast and the South-east. There are excellent bus services from Green Lanes.

Barley Court is within walking distance of Highbury Barn, with its wonderful butcher Godfrey’s, the new addition of Bourne’s Fishmongers, Da Mario deli and the excellent original branch of La Fromagerie. Much-loved Stoke Newington is also within close reach, with Church Street home to Borough Wines, Whole Foods and The Good Egg.

Tenure: Leasehold
Lease length: approx. 123 years
Service charge: approx. £1,888 per annum
Ground rent: approx. £350 per annum

Please note that all areas, measurements and distances given in these particulars are approximate and rounded. The text, photographs and floor plans are for general guidance only. The Modern House has not tested any services, appliances or specific fittings — prospective purchasers are advised to inspect the property themselves. All fixtures, fittings and furniture not specifically itemised within these particulars are deemed removable by the vendor.