Positioned within the acclaimed Palace Road Estate designed by Sir Roger Walters, this four-bedroom townhouse unfolds over 1,200 sq ft. It has been thoughtfully renovated by the architect owner, with a pared-back and minimal colour palette that maximises the light drawn in from large picture windows. Beautiful design details have been introduced with sustainability in mind to establish a minimalist finish throughout. The parks, restaurants and galleries of Dulwich, Brixton and Tulse Hill are all in easy reach of this wonderfully located house.

The Architect

Sir Roger Walters (1917-2010) was noted for his role in a number of major post-war building projects in London, including the Thames Barrier, and the redevelopment of Covent Garden. He was also involved in numerous housing developments, including Brentford Dock Marina and the Palace Road Estate in Tulse Hill, of which Coburg Crescent is a part. During his time as Chief Architect of the Greater London Council, he developed a more low-key style in contrast to the trend for high-rise building solutions of the 1970s. He also pioneered the use of public consultation in architecture.

The Tour

The house is approached along a quiet pedestrian street in the centre of the tessellating streetscape of the Palace Road Estate. A crisp façade of simple stock brick conceals a thoughtful internal layout of interconnected half-levels.

The entrance hall leads up a few steps towards the beautifully executed kitchen and garden. Sleek anthracite fronts made from recycled wood and plastic and a recycled glass worktop contrast with the light wall-mounted ply cabinetry; colourful geometric tiles bridge the space in between. A deep step acts as a window ledge and seat, by the wooden-framed glazed sliding doors leading out to the cedar decked garden.

An enclosed staircase twists through the centre of the house, and every opportunity has been used to maximise storage with large bespoke cabinets added on each landing. The main living room is directly above the kitchen and is a considered space where huge full-width windows allow dappled light to pour in through the neighbouring treetops; wooden floors ground the space.

The main bedroom is opposite the living room on the first floor. A striking vertical radiator sits alongside beautifully finished bespoke wardrobes painted grey. Upstairs a third bedroom sits above the living room and spans the entire width of the house with an elevated tree top view; it is currently configured as an office. In the fourth bedroom, a buttercup yellow radiator adds a pop of colour. Two bedrooms and the kitchen are fitted with sustainable cork flooring.

The monochrome family bathroom is a double-height space with clerestory windows that draw light from above. Black mosaic tiles line the floor in stark contrast with the bright white square tiles that wrap the walls adding depth with their subtle 3D geometric pattern. Radiators, taps and finishes are matt black too.

Another double bedroom with a terrazzo-lined en suite is on the ground floor. Throughout the house heating is regulated by a Google Nest Learning Thermostat. LED lights run through the rest of the house, all controllable through the Nest system which is also connected to fire and smart alarms.

Outdoor Space

The cedar deck opens from the kitchen, surrounded by bamboo and jasmine. High overhead, the leafy cover of the trees in the neighbouring park provides patches of shade. This is a wonderfully secluded spot with plenty of space for a dining table and chairs. From here, the careful refurbishment of the rear elevation can be properly admired. Anthracite external window frames encircle the new double-glazed windows, and recycled plastic and timber composite panels provide excellent additional insulation.

The Area

Coburg Crescent is well placed for the centres of Brixton, Tulse Hill and Dulwich. Nearby Norwood Road offers a host of independent bars, cafes and shops, including Perks and White, Knowles of Norwood, and Four Hundred Rabbits Pizza.

Brockwell Park is a 15-minute walk away and is one of London’s most popular green spaces. It has a lido, a 50-metre pool, a Grade II-listed art deco pavilion, a cafe, tennis courts, and a walled garden. Each summer, it hosts the Lambeth Country Show and various music festivals. Through the park are the wonderful amenities of Railton Road, including the Blackbird Bakery, Jo’s House, Llwellyn’s restaurant, and Herne Hill Books.

Dulwich Park and Dulwich Village are a short bus ride away. Local attractions include Dulwich and Sydenham Golf Club, The Dulwich Picture Gallery, and The Horniman Museum and Gardens.

Tulse Hill Station is a 10-minute walk away and runs mainline services to London Bridge in 20 minutes. Thameslink services also run right through the city and to Kings Cross in just 25 minutes. The area is also well served by bus running to central London and the West End.

Council Tax Band: D

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.