Strand Buildings, Urswick Road, London E9

This light-filled apartment is situated on the first floor of Clapton's art deco Strand Buildings. Recently renovated, the apartment sits in harmony with the building's 1920s origins, effortlessly pairing considered materials with pops of colour. The building has a large, well-planted communal courtyard garden and is close to many of east London's most-loved green spaces.

The Building

E9’s ‘Strand Building’ was built as the Hackney Electricity Demonstration Halls and Offices in 1925. It was designed by J.A. Bowden in the art deco style and is characterised by its upward, vertical design. In 1995, the building was refurbished to be converted into flats and was reappointed in shades of blue and pink to reflect the building’s 1920s heritage. Lettering typical of that period is found on the building’s signage.

The Tour

The building has a handsome entrance, opening to an airy communal hall with blue and pink flourishes, establishing a distinctively art deco atmosphere. This apartment, on the building's first floor, is reached via stairs.

The variegated tones of new Brazilian cherry block flooring pave the way to the main living spaces. The large, light sitting room is painted in a pale blue up to the darker blue dado rail, which snakes around the perimeter of the room. There is plenty of space for a dining table and additional seating. Door frames and skirting boards have been painted blue throughout to match the building’s original style.

The kitchen is on one side, impeccably renovated with dark plywood cabinetry, stainless steel countertops and integrated appliances. The kitchen and bathroom are both lined with neat, geometric white tiles, adding a contemporary touch. In these rooms, underfloor heating runs underfoot.

The bedroom is lit by two art deco, pale blue glazed doors. A Juliet balcony is positioned off a generous window. A bespoke cupboard stands in the bedroom with a soft, patterned timber exterior which mirrors the attractive covered radiators throughout the apartment.

The bathroom has been finished with striking geometric detailing, with an original curved mirror above the sink and a walk-in shower.

Outdoor Space

The building has a well-maintained communal courtyard garden, which is dotted with palm trees and other mature plantings.

There is a gated garage with parking spaces available in the building's basement.

The Area

There are many fantastic local restaurants, notably Elliot’s, Bright and Mare Street Market, less than a five-minute walk away on Mare Street. Much-loved Cafe Cecilia and Bistrotheque are slightly further afield. Laid-back pub, The Spread Eagle, has become known for its delicious vegan Sunday roasts. Slightly further afield, but still in easy reach, are E5 Bakehouse, on the edge of London Fields, Netil Market and Broadway Market. Chatsworth Road Market is nearby and has been running since the 1930s, with a market every Sunday run by the local community.

We've written more about our Clapton and Hackney Downs recommendations in our Journal.

The building is also close to several of the east London's most popular green spaces: London Fields, which has a popular heated Lido, Hackney Downs, Hackney Marshes, and Victoria Park.

Stations in Hackney Downs, Hackney Central and Homerton are all within easy reach of the building and offer Overground services on a north-south and east-west axis. The area is also superbly served by bus routes.

Tenure: Share of Freehold
Lease Length: Approx. 97 years remaining
Service Charge: Approx. between £2,500 and £8,000 per annum; there is a major works programme currently taking place. More details can be provided on request.
Council Tax Band: C