The coolest homes to see this Open House London weekend
This Saturday and Sunday, buildings across the capital will throw open their doors for Open House London, giving the public a peek into grand stately homes, imposing City skyscrapers and ornate government buildings.
But also on the list are ordinary people’s homes, chosen for their unusual architecture or interesting interiors. Whether you’re looking for inspiration or just want to have a nosey around, here are five of the best.
Salmen House
Designed by Office S&M, this Instagramable Plaistow new-build sits at the end of a terrace of post-war houses and offers a new take on the mid-century style. Beyond its kitsch pink and green exterior sits a bright, modern home with a triple-height staircase and exposed beams.
53a Salmen Road, E13 0DT
Beton Brit
This Stepney terrace is one of the few surviving homes from a vast housing project built by the Mercer’s Estate in the early 1800s. The owners have modernised the space with an extension by architect Archer & Braun while retaining lots of original features. It is part of the Albert Gardens Conservation Area, previously used as a location in series such as The Crown.
5 East Arbour Street E1 0PU
The Layered Gallery
This private gallery sits within the grade II-listed home of an art collector in Fitzrovia, and provides a light-filled conservatory space which is used to view and sort works of art before they are hung in the main house. The steel and glass structure was designed by Gianni Botsford and also has an outdoor kitchen, sunbathing area and a secret toilet in the wall.
29 Percy Street, W1T 2DA
Garden House
Sandwiched between Victorian terraces in Hackney, this home and studio was designed for fashion and costume design duo Whitaker Malem who have worked with Hussein Chalayan and Alexander McQueen as well as on the Batman and Captain America films. Its most striking feature is the bespoke roof garden, which is arranged as a series of steps. New works by Whitaker Malem will also be on display at the open house.
27 Buckingham Road, N1 4DG
Cork House
This extension to a Victorian house in Lewisham is clad both inside and outside with cork, which when you think about it makes complete sense: it acts as insulation, absorbs noise, and and is fully recyclable. Pink window frames, geometric shapes and bold patterns give it a playful edge
67 Algernon Road, SE13 7AS
Visit openhouselondon.org.uk for opening times and tour details