Elvaston Place

Previously spotlighted in Spanish Architectural Digest, this two-bedroom South Kensington apartment reimagines its period footprint with expressive materiality and contemporary craftsmanship.

Set within an elegant townhouse dating back to 1881, this two-bedroom apartment pairs its Victorian heritage with a striking modern rework by Binom Architects and interior designer César Pazos Sotomayor. Outside, pale stock brick and refined façades speak of the architectural grandeur that defines this South Kensington address. Inside, the historic footprint has been carefully reinterpreted with a tactile, design-led sensibility that granted Elvaston Place a 2018 feature in Spanish Architectural Digest.

The entrance hall sets the tone, wrapped in French wooden panelling by Maya Romanoff. Beyond, the open-plan reception and dining room is introduced with reclaimed parquet flooring underfoot – its warmth balanced by soft pale-blue walls and crisp ceiling detailing. Oversized sash windows draw in generous natural light, amplified by full-height mirrors flanking the chimney breast; these pieces were crafted in France, using time-honoured mercury glass techniques. A reclaimed fireplace nods to the building’s past, while mid-century inspired furnishings bring a relaxed contemporary rhythm to the space. Discreet, ceiling-integrated speakers contain a whole-home Sonos system.

Panelled bi-fold doors open into the bespoke kitchen, where form meets streamlined function. Green walls create a playful contrast against glossy pale-grey cabinetry and polished Italian granite worktops, while vintage pendant lamps lend character after dark. There’s a host of hi-spec Miele appliances, plus a wine shelf tucked neatly within the cupboards.

The principal bedroom is rich and atmospheric. Built-in high-gloss African walnut wardrobes catch the light as you enter, complemented by suede-lined walls and French silk curtains. A skylight overhead casts soft daylight across the tactile surfaces, complete with an automatic blind for adjustable privacy. Glazed doors lead out to a private roof terrace — a verdant, sun-drenched retreat with leafy views stretching across the surrounding rooftops.

In the guest bedroom, reclaimed parquet flooring continues the home’s layered material palette, while Lapis-blue walls and a dark-painted reclaimed fireplace lend depth and intimacy to the space. A concealed television sits discreetly behind a dielectric mirror, set within a Dutch period frame that introduces a refined and distinctive character. Bespoke industrial-style bookcases are seamlessly incorporated into the architecture, with shelving that doubles as balustrading and is complemented by movable ladders.

The main bathroom is finished with characterful materials: Pakistani onyx and Spanish white marble line the floors and walls. A guest WC is equally considered, combining 19th-century French tiles with a Moroccan washbasin, Japanese cornflower wallpaper by Iksel and antique lighting sourced from across France and Spain. Underfloor heating ensures comfort beneath the antique finishes. Completing the home, a spacious basement level provides plenty of storage and wardrobe space –  a rare feature that enhances the apartment’s everyday practicality.