This light-filled former tannery can be found on Swan Mead, a quiet no-through road situated moments from Bermondsey Street. It was originally built in the 1880s and more recently updated to a design by the designer John Pawson to serve as the home, gallery and studio space of an artist. Internal accommodation approaches 3,000 sq ft across three versatile levels, with a substantial decked roof terrace on the second floor.

The Tour

From the street, a long, narrow corridor offers an intimate delay to the dramatic entrance hall where Pawson’s angular masses surround a roof-lit void. The ground floor is arranged as a bedroom, intended to contain a centrally positioned bed lit by a single roof light, a shower room, and a large studio space that could be used as a further bedroom. A storeroom and utility are offset from the latter.

An oak staircase hovers under the shadow gaps of white walls and ascends to the first-level landing. Oak flooring continues throughout the upper levels, first into a double bedroom with clerestory windows and an en suite bathroom with a freestanding bath. An open-plan living room, dining room and kitchen extend across the entire front of the building, lit by a series of windows and with a set of loading doors preserved at their centre. Kitchen worktops are Carrara marble and have been paired with a bespoke dining table designed by the architect.

Pawson’s elegant minimalist aesthetic proceeds to the second floor through an expansive, open room with access to the timber-decked terrace.

The Area

The house is located just a few minutes walk to Bermondsey Street, home to a large number of independent restaurants and bars, and the White Cube gallery. It is also popular with independent design practices, many of which choose to base their offices in this vibrant area. Borough Market is nearby, and the South Bank, Tate Modern and the river are within easy walking distance.

Borough Underground station (Northern Line) is around eight minutes’ walk and both London Bridge (Jubilee and Northern Lines, and National Rail servies) and Elephant and Castle (Bakerloo Line) stations are within easy reach.

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.