This light-filled four-bedroom Victorian house in Stoke Newington has been subject to a sympathetic renovation by Pierre d’Avoine Architects. Characterised by clean architectural lines, subtle detailing and an understated use of materials, the home’s minimalist aesthetic seamlessly combines with carefully retained period features. A south-facing courtyard garden sits at the rear, cleverly levelled with the kitchen addition to create a wonderful sense of extension to the interior plan.

 The Architect

Founded in 1979, Pierre d’Avoine Architects is based in central London but often works internationally. Over the years, the practice has developed an evocative response to the conditions of contemporary Western culture, informed by its sustained contacts in other parts of the world, particularly Japan, India, and, more recently, Iran. Its ability to generate interesting propositions in response to difficult sites and complex programmes has resulted in its success in a number of important competitions such as the Elephant and Castle Roundabouts,1996 (winner), Concept House 1999 (winner), and Welsh House for the Future, 2000 (second place).

The Tour

The house forms part of a handsome Victorian terrace characterised by large bay windows and intricate white stucco dressing. It sits back from the road behind a neat parapet wall and gate, where a pathway, with its original checkered tiling, leads to the front door.

An impressive double reception room lies adjacent to the central hallway; original floorboards have been carefully retained, as has the ceiling rose, cornicing and fireplace hearth. Bespoke joinery sits neatly in the alcoves, and plywood-edged shutters have been added to the bay window for privacy. White-washed walls highlight period features and maximise the exceptional quality of natural light that pours through the sash windows and the south-facing extension.

Solid timber steps lead into the contemporary kitchen and dining room, seamlessly bridging the house’s period origins with the newer open-plan extension. Solid concrete floors are warmed with underfloor heating. Bespoke elevated cabinetry lines the length of the wall while expansive skylights run overhead, allowing golden shards of sunlight to shine through. A cherry wood splashback and worktop create a striking contrast to the large ceramic sink and off-white cabinetry. Bi-fold glazed doors slide open onto a south-facing courtyard garden.

A staircase with its original balustrades ascends to the first floor, home to three well-proportioned bedrooms. The largest of the three sits at the front of the plan, illuminated by generous sash windows fitted with further bespoke shutters. Tall open shelving and built-in wardrobes flush with the wall continue the house’s clean aesthetic. Sisal carpet grounds the space and adds a dash of warmth against the predominantly neutral palette. An immaculate bathroom also sits on this floor, largely executed in Carrara marble slabs, replete with chrome fixtures and fittings.

Crowning the top of the house is a spacious double bedroom with an en suite bathroom, which matches the interior of the family bathroom on the first floor. Tall glazed double doors open onto a south-facing Juliet balcony, which overlooks a mature olive tree.

Outdoor Space

Glazed bi-folding doors slide open to the south-facing courtyard garden, seamlessly levelled to add a sense of flow between indoors and out. Enclosed by cedar panelling and white brickwork, the garden is exceptionally private. Various palms and evergreen plants line the parameter, while the centre provides a beautiful spot for outdoor dining and entertaining.

The Area

Belgrade Road is located within easy reach of the independent shops, cafes, restaurants and pubs of Stoke Newington, Newington Green and Dalston; Esters, Mangal 1 and Jolene are particular neighbourhood favourites. Much-loved Church Street is home to The Spence Bakery, AUN and The Good Egg, as well as many other independent businesses. A short walk away is the newly opened Cadet, as well as Primeur, described as “the perfect neighbourhood restaurant.”

The house is well positioned for several popular green spaces, notably Abney Park & Cemetery and Clissold Park with its tennis courts, café, beautiful lakes, and resident deer.

Dalston Kingsland and Dalston Junction run Overground trains to Highbury & Islington, Shoreditch High Street and Stratford. Rectory Road is also close and offers trains to Liverpool Street in around 15 minutes.

Council Tax Band: E

Please note that all areas, measurements and distances given in these particulars are approximate and rounded. The text, photographs and floor plans are for general guidance only. The Modern House has not tested any services, appliances or specific fittings — prospective purchasers are advised to inspect the property themselves. All fixtures, fittings and furniture not specifically itemised within these particulars are deemed removable by the vendor.