This refined apartment, with large private terrace, can be found in Pullens Buildings. Built in 1890, these elegant tenement blocks are just a few minutes’ walk from Elephant and Castle in Walworth, south London. The quiet streets, laid out at the end of the 19^th century by forward thinking builder and developer James Pullen, are now designated a conservation area and remain a quiet oasis in this vibrant part of central London.

This apartment is positioned on the second floor and is one of only a few to have a large south-facing terrace. The inside spaces have been imaginatively reconfigured by architect Peter Culley of Spatial Affairs Bureau, using a minimal palette to amplify the period proportions.

The apartment is flooded with light throughout the day. Large east-facing sash windows at the front of the plan draw light into the living spaces while there is a bank of wood-framed windows at the rear. Pullen intended the apartments to be used for work at home, and as such planned for long-lasting evening light.

Culley’s intelligent redesign saw the removal of some interior walls, creating a large open living space upon entry. To the right is the bedroom, separated with a pair of double doors so that it can be opened to the living room, creating a generous sense of flow. Original floorboards run underfoot and carefully chosen new finishes have been integrated into the design where needed.

The kitchen is crafted with minimal white cabinetry, Vola sanitaryware and stainless-steel appliances. There is space under the sash window for a table, indicative of the many design slights of hand that ensure every space in the apartment is cleverly used. The bathroom is located at the rear of the plan and has been laid out with few internal walls. The WC is neatly enclosed, and there is good storage underneath the windows.

As well as the private terrace, residents have access to the communal roof terrace. From here there are views across the estate and towards the nearby redevelopment of Elephant and Castle. Since the 1980s there has been a strong community of residents in Pullens Buildings, who ensured that the estate was recognised and preserved, and who now work together to maintain the communal facilities. There are two open studios a year in Iliffe and Peacock yard.

Elephant & Castle has seen significant development in recent years and has a growing restaurant scene including an outpost of much-loved Theo’s Pizzeria, newly opened Diogenes the Dog wine bar and Louie Louie on Walworth Road. Recently re-landscaped Burgess Park, East Street Market, Borough Market and the River Thames are all within easy walking distance.

Grade-II listed Kennington Park is a short walk away, with sports courts and the newly opened ‘Collective’ that serves excellent pizzas. Larger green spaces and sports facilities can be found at Burgess Park.

Iliffe Street is a seven-minute walk from both Elephant & Castle Underground station (Northern and Bakerloo lines) and the Overground station which runs to south London and Kent. Kennington Underground station is a little closer, within five minutes’ walk. The area is also exceptionally well served by buses and cycle lanes and superhighways.

Tenure: Leasehold
Lease Length: approx. 99 yars remaining 
Service Charge: approx. £500 per annum (including: buildings insurance, freeholders’ administration or management charges, repairs to shared areas and the outside of the building, cleaning services, roof terrace
Ground Rent: approx. £10 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.