Watt House, London NW2

This former keeper's residence in Hampstead, north London, has been sensitively transformed into a three-bedroom house, with a back-to-brick renovation that has earned it a 10-year New Build Guarantee. With the original frontage built in 1921, the new house behind unfolds across three storeys, with the entire ground floor given over to a series of immaculately presented open-plan living spaces that open out to a private patio. A similarly refined finish is used in each of the bedrooms, two of which have access to private balconies. The western part of Hampstead Heath lies a short walk to the east, with its tennis courts, lido and year-round swimming ponds just beyond.

The Tour

The yellow and red London stock brick façade of this early 20th-century building epitomises the era’s approach to robust industrial design. It originally served as the keeper's cottage to the adjoining electrical switchboard and was built in 1921. An impressive Dutch gable roof sits centrally, directly above a driveway tucked behind a secure gate. The house's entrance lies here, tucked away on the down-lit paved driveway.

The hallway lies beyond, with a wood-burning stove and Mandarin Stone floor tiles. Underfloor heating begins here and continues ... There is plenty of storage space for coats and shoes, as well as a handy WC. The flexible living and dining room has triple glazing and a bright white palette, with an air conditioning that allows for an optimal atmosphere.

The kitchen has been fantastically appointed with Schmidt cabinetry, AEG appliances and a Quooker hot tap. An expansive quartz-topped island faces out towards Crittall-style doors and glazing, with engineered-oak parquet echoing the Corten-effect finish of the cabinets.

On the first floor the main bedroom has built-in wardrobes, a curved balcony terrace and an en suite with a walk-in shower. There is also another bedroom and family bathroom with a porcelain bath. Stairs lead to the second floor, which has a dramatic pitched roofline, skylights and a balcony that floods the space with light. Another room, framed by the building's original beams, would make for a great yoga studio or study.

Environmentally conscious interventions were added during the renovation process, including an air-source heat pump and solar panels.

Outdoor Space

The house has three distinct outdoor spaces to enjoy. First is a private driveway with CCTV that guides towards a rear patio space, leads past a soaring metal structure to an area with parking space for two cars, as well as an EV charging point.

Just off the first-floor bedroom is a curved terrace with space for a table and chairs, making it a lovely spot to sit and watch the sunset. A second balcony lies above is sheltered by the adjoining wall and would be a great spot for pots and planters.

The Area

The house is fantastically close to Hampstead Heath and the village-like delights that make Hampstead one of the most sought-after locations in London. Hampstead High Street offers a host of boutiques, cafés and eateries, including Jin Kichi, Oddono’s gelati, Ginger and White, Gail’s and the famous Hampstead Crêperie.

There are several atmospheric pubs nearby, including The Horseshoe, The Flask and The Holly Bush, while the open expanse of Hampstead Heath is just minutes away. In addition to elevated views of the city from Parliament Hill, there are tennis courts, a café and Kenwood House, a wonderful 17th-century country house and gallery. There are many cultural spots nearby from the excellent Camden Arts Centre to the Kiln Theatre in Kilburn.

Many of London’s best independent schools are within a short walk of the house, including The Hall, St Antony’s, South Hampstead, St Christopher’s, Trevor Roberts and Sarum Hall.

Golders Green Underground Station (Northern Line) is 16 minutes from the house. Hampstead Heath and Finchley Road and Frognal Overground are both around a 25-minute walk away.

Council Tax Band: D