Offered for sale for the first time, The Lawns is one of the most architecturally significant modern houses in Britain. Completed in 2000 to a design by the celebrated practice Eldridge Smerin, it was shortlisted for the Stirling Prize, British architecture’s highest honour.
The house is situated on one of the best roads in Highgate Village, a short walk from Hampstead Heath. It occupies a fine site, with exceptional views across treetops towards the City. The internal accommodation measures approximately 5,700 sq ft over four floors, and includes six bedrooms.
The property is set behind cast-iron gates, with off-street parking for five cars. The site measures approximately a quarter of an acre, with gardens designed by the renowned landscape designer Dan Pearson, who has planted a beautiful grove of silver birch trees at the front for privacy. The rear garden has a terrace, a lawn, white willow trees and mature borders.
Eldridge Smerin’s design wraps around the core of an existing detached house built in the 1950s by Leonard Manasseh, which was itself constructed on Victorian foundations. The result is a building with multiple layers, exciting double-height spaces and outstanding levels of natural light. Discreetly divided zones with concealed doors for subdivision enable the house to be intimate in parts and open in others as the occasion demands. The house is excellent for entertaining – it has accommodated as many as 150 guests for a party and 60 for a sit-down dinner.
The architects have specified the finest natural materials, including oak and York stone. The standard of detailing throughout it exemplary, and includes bespoke storage, custom-made fireplaces and a Bulthaup kitchen.
The property is located on South Grove, adjacent to Bacon’s Lane and the historic Old Hall, and occupies one of the highest points in London. All of the shops, pubs and restaurants of Highgate Village are within a short walk, and open space is provided by Hampstead Heath, Waterlow Park and Highgate Wood. Highgate has some outstanding schools, including St Michael’s primary, Highgate School and Channing. The area is well served for public transport, with Highgate Underground station (Northern Line) and direct bus routes to the City and to Brent Cross.
