Architect Andrew Budgen has thoroughly transformed this peaceful Victorian house in Highgate. It spans across two floors, with three bedrooms, a capacious rear extension and a two-storey annexe at the foot of its garden. The beautiful Parkland Walk is accessible from Homlesdale Road, while Highgate Village, Crouch End and Hampstead Heath are also easily reached.
The Tour
Holmesdale Road has an eclectic mix of period architecture. This home was built in the late 19th century and is set back behind a low parapet stock-brick wall. On entry, the living space lies to the right; it has a well-preserved original fireplace and a wide bay window, sympathetically updated with double-glazed timber-framed panes. Original floorboards ground the space underfoot.
Unexpected volumes open up at the rear of the house, where a kitchen, dining room and additional sitting space are arranged beneath soaring ceilings. Views extend out to the garden and annexe through full-height sliding doors. A well-appointed, fully integrated kitchen lies to the side with a generous island at its centre. Special attention has been given to the bespoke joinery in this room, especially in the dedicated study space.
Stairs from the entrance hall ascend to the upper level; a convenient WC is tucked underneath. There are three well-proportioned double bedrooms on the first floor, along with a large bathroom. The principal room is at the front of the house; it has an en suite shower room and plenty of built-in wardrobes.
At the foot of the garden, the annexe or outhouse is a versatile space. It has a downstairs living area and a bedroom (or office/studio) on the first floor, with an en suite shower room.
Outdoor Space
The garden is laid mainly to lawn with a gravel border leading to the annexe at the rear boundary. Evergreen plants have been thoughtfully placed around the perimeter, providing year-round interest.
The Area
Holmesdale Road is close to some of London’s most celebrated green spaces. It gives direct access to The Parkland Walk, while Hampstead Heath, Waterlow Park, ancient Highgate Wood and Queen’s Wood are all nearby.
A short walk away, Highgate Village has well-loved shops, cafés, pubs and restaurants, including The Flask and Greens of Highgate. The Grocery Post on Archway Road serves good coffee and sells excellent provisions. Finsbury Park and Crouch End provide an additional offering of places to eat; both also have cinemas showing arthouse films and blockbusters alike.
There are excellent schools in the area, including Highgate School, Highgate Primary School, St Michael’s Primary School and Channing.