This wonderful two-bedroom apartment with a private balcony is situated on the ground floor of Ruskin Park House, a modernist development on Champion Hill in Camberwell. Designed in the 1930s by Alexander Stuart Gray and William Watkins, Ruskin Park House stands as a monument to British modernism, surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens.

The Building

Ruskin Park House is comprised of 241 flats in three blocks divided by formal gardens, which are maintained by the estate’s live-in caretakers. The blocks are arranged in a zig-zag layout, with semicircular bay windows on each floor forming part of the estate’s archetypal art deco style. It is one of the few blocks of its era to retain most of its period features including Crittall windows and exquisitely tended gardens.

While Ruskin Park House is renowned for its beautiful streamlined aesthetics, the architects were rather pragmatic in their approach to design. Gray, who trained under renowned architect Edwin Lutyens, has described his approach in self-deprecating tones, stating that “[Ruskin Park House is in] the style of those days… long lines, bow windows… a modernistic style.”

The Tour

This particular apartment is nestled among the beautifully tended lawns of the estate. It is arranged around a balcony that is recessed into the plan and enjoys wonderful views over Ruskin Park. The balcony offers shelter and privacy, as well as providing space for troughs for flowers and plants. It can be accessed from either end of the property, via the second bedroom or the living/dining area. As such, the spaces merge seamlessly together and enjoy copious amounts of natural light.

Between the bedrooms and living room sits a modern kitchen and a generously sized bathroom with original buttercup tiles and an in-built soap holder. The incredibly bright main bedroom is one of few on the estate with dual aspect windows. Engineered oak flooring has been laid throughout.

The estate has a wonderful sense of community with yearly advent displays as well as community gardening and composting. We Are The Float mobile milk float also passes through the estate weekly.

The Area

Positioned on the slopes of Champion Hill, Ruskin Park House is minutes from the cafes, bars and restaurants of Camberwell, including Silk Road, The Daily Goods, The Camberwell Arms and Theo’s Pizzeria. There are also excellent galleries in the vicinity, including the South London Gallery – recently extended by 6a Architects – Hannah Barry Gallery in nearby Peckham and the Dulwich Picture Gallery.

Ruskin Park House is well-served by public transport. Denmark Hill station is within five minute’s walk, running Thameslink, London Overground and National Rail services across to London Victoria, London Blackfriars, Clapham Junction and nationwide.

Tenure: Leasehold
Lease length: approx. 140 years remaining
Service Charge: approx. £2,769 per annum
Ground Rent: Peppercorn

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.