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 luxury English home 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 of London. The internal accommodation measures approximately 5,627 sq ft over four floors, and includes six bedrooms.
The contemporary British property is set behind cast-iron gates, with off-street parking for five cars. The site measures just under 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 architects have specified the finest natural materials, including oak and York stone. The standard of detailing throughout is exemplary, and includes bespoke storage, custom-made fireplaces and a Bulthaup kitchen.
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