xu maia

The idea of open plan living has truly gained traction over the last decade or so, with studies suggesting that around one-fifth of all homeowners have opened up their own homes, demolishing walls and changing floor plans in the process, to give them the light, bright, open spaces they’re looking for. And it’s not just a fashionable idea either; in fact, it’s one that maximises the sense of space and light, as well as the opportunity for human interaction and connection.

This article was inspired by a piece by The Modern House on the Importance of Light for House and Garden.

Alexandra Palace is, without a doubt, one of the most famous buildings in North London. Situated within Alexandra Park, the Grade II listed building has long been one of the UK’s most enduring venues right from its opening in 1873.

The housing market can go up or down, but there will always be an interest in properties that require renovation work. No matter the climate, enhancing an existing property can be a strong investment and the ROI can be far greater if renovations are completed professionally and to a high standard. This is especially true if you live in London where property and land is in ever higher demand.

A house extension can be a transformative addition to any property. Whether you’re seeking to expand your living area or elevate your home’s market value, a well-executed house extension can offer a multitude of benefits, enriching your family’s life in inspiring ways.

North Hill in Highgate is a bit of an architectural anomaly. It may only be around a mile long, but it manages to play host to a huge array of architectural styles. Walking along North Hill, which runs parallel to Highgate tube station and Archway road, you’ll see buildings dating as far back as the 1600s and right up to the present day. This unusual claim to fame has led to its residents and Haringey council dubbing it the most architecturally diverse street in Britain.

Attitudes to social housing have changed dramatically over the past sixty years and there’s no better example of state-funded modern urbanism than in London. One such example is Highgate New Town, a large council housing estate designed by Camden Architects Department architect, Sydney Cook. Like much mass housing in London, it took the place of an older pre-war terrace that was deemed unfit for modern living, with three quarters of the old homes not even having a bathroom.

Born in 1881, John Carrick Stuart Soutar is best known for his commitment to the buildings of Hampstead Garden Suburb in north London, a picturesque suburb that is still popular and thriving to this day.

One of the wealthiest streets in London, let alone the world, The Bishops Avenue and its cul-de-sacs, is home to approximately 110 properties. Yet this wasn’t always the case. Before 1887, it had at one point been part of the Bishop of London’s hunting park. The Bishop of London was also known as the Lord of the Manor of Finchley and commanded a great deal of respect and power in the city. This was until 1868, when all episcopal land was transferred to the Ecclesiastical Commissioners, opening up the area for commercialisation in 1887.

British businessman Sir Arthur Alvin is perhaps one of the most famous inhabitants of Ingram Avenue, a leafy street situated in Hampstead Garden Suburb. Residing at his home in Kenwood Close with his wife, the ‘Wizard of Wembley’ was best known for his achievements in the sporting arena.