Words: Jonathan Wells
In association with:
They eat well on Westbourne Grove. From the seasonably-menued Gold at one end to a Gail’s brimming with breads and baked goods at the other, this palatable pocket of West London is a quiet culinary delight. There’s Granger & Co, the bastion of all-day Australian dining. There’s the original Ottolenghi, recently turned twenty-years-old. There’s even Franklin’s — the finest wine bar in town (where they make a mean macchiato, too…)
But the best kitchen in the area? Considerably more private. For, in a charcoal-black townhouse hidden mere minutes away from Westbourne’s well-catered stretch, you’ll find a cooking set-up to rival even the finest-dining restaurants. On the lower-ground floor of this striking six-bedroom home, a large, lustrous marble island sits pretty in the centre of a mouth-watering, lip-smacking space — one fitted with chef-grade Gaggenau and Miele appliances, and statement wine storage stacked high behind bronze and glass doors.
And the rest of the property is just as appetising. Beyond the dining space — and behind similar glass panels — you’ll find an immaculate garden that epitomises the chic, sleek outdoor spaces of this unique townhouse.
There’s a sun-trap of a terrace on the first floor; its outdoor floor rendered in glass and equipped with several choice pieces of timeless, tasteful furniture. Retreat inside, and a similar feel of contemporary-meets-classic will be waiting to greet you. Because, whilst luxurious trims and touches have been used to underpin the rich heritage of the property, its grandeur has been stylishly softened to create a more homely environment.
Around the ground-floor reception room, you’ll spot marble accents, dark wood floors and an ornate, gilded metal screen. There’s a large mirror — set above a modern fireplace — that amplifies the swathes of sunlight that pour in through the handsome sash windows. And a vast glass balustrade frames a dynamic double-height, open-ceiling space connecting the reception room with that lavishly-appointed kitchen-diner below.
This unusual vertical drop is emphasised threefold; with full-height glazing adding depth, an expansive roof light bringing a certain airiness, and a sculptural chandelier extending dramatically across almost the entire space. Also spanning the lower-ground, second and third floors are four generously-sized guest bedrooms and two bathrooms (of four total).
The opulent master bedroom suite, in particular, is a treat. Occupying the entire first floor, the space ushers you in through a cosy corridor of sage-green panelled wardrobes. Dark wood detailing and a symphony of complementary textiles give way to plush grey carpets, which themselves lead seamlessly to the bedroom’s bold ensuite bathroom.
And what a bathroom it is. Complete with a dual vanity, delightfully dappled marble and an oversized rainfall shower, it’s a truly transportive — almost tropical space. Throw in a lush potted plant or two, and you’ll feel far-flung from the hustle and bustle of the city every time you take a morning soak.
But this bathroom — despite its brushed golden taps and sparkling crystal chandelier — isn’t even the most refined relaxation area in the property. Descend the wide staircase to the basement level, and you’ll find a remarkable use of subterranean space; a one-of-a-kind, blue-hued marble pool. It’s an exquisite addition to a traditional home — a cutting-edge showpiece accentuated by a glass roof that filters soft sunlight by day, and pairs the sparkle of stars with the glow of gentle lighting after dark.
It’s all a Londoner could need under one meticulously-maintained roof. And, even if you do need to leave the city, you can do so with ease — there’s an off-road parking space at the front of the property. But why would you? The expansive lawns of Hyde Park are a short walk away. You can practically smell the popcorn of Portobello Road’s Electric Cinema, if entertainment is your thing. And, for the foodies, The Walmer Castle delivers decadent pub grub on your doorstep.
Of course, if that kitchen is still beckoning, the nearby Daylesford Organic farmshop is stocked with enough fresh produce to keep even the most insatiable gastronomer busy. And, with a kitchen searing so hot with culinary potential, who could possibility get bored if they called this townhouse home?
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