Positioned in Upper Holloway, this stylish and bright 2/3 bedroom duplex apartment, with south-facing terrace balcony, is a fantastic find. After an extensive refurb by the current architect-owners, it’s clear that a lot of thought has gone into choosing materials that not only look beautiful but are built to last and improve with age. Its timeless appeal will be appreciated by those with an eye for design.

Bretton House on Fairbridge Road is in a great location. Nestled between Crouch End, Holloway and Archway, there is an abundance of independent shops, restaurants and pubs to enjoy within walking distance. Transport links are also very good with Archway station (Northern line) and Upper Holloway station (Gospel Oak to Barking Overground) both fewer than 10 minutes’ away on foot.

Bretton House, Holloway, 3 Bed. house

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BRICKWORKS SAYS

Lovingly refurbished over the years, the owners took their design cues from 50s Scandinavia and Milan – a combination of clean, minimal lines with touches of opulence – resulting in a distinctive home that we’re very fond of.

The apartment is set on the top two floors of the building. The lower level is something to be admired for both its layout – capturing light throughout the day – and careful use of materials. On entering the living room, there's a custom-made, French fluted glass door; the internal space feels polished yet calm thanks to the terrazzo floor. Full, glazed sliding doors open to a sun-filled terrace surrounded by foliage, reinforcing the sense of tranquillity.

On the upper level, there are more well-considered details, from Carrera marble shelves in the bathrooms to the integrated wardrobe in the master bedroom. But what’s genius is the third bedroom, primarily used as a study – every inch has been utilised. Turned into a playful and functional space, crafted with bespoke joinery to create a built-in desk and daybed.

THE OWNERS SAY

We’ve enjoyed breakfast in the morning sun or a drink and dinner on the terrace with the smell of star jasmine in the air, and quiet evenings listening to music in the living room.

We will miss cooking and entertaining friends in the kitchen and moving into the lounge for drinks and the evening ahead.

POINTS TO CONSIDER

The EPC gives a current Energy Efficiency Rating: D & Environmental Impact Rating: D

Part of the borough of Islington, the apartment falls into Council Tax Band D (£1,429.45 for 2018/2019).

The current owners are in the process of extending the lease to 125 years. This will be done before the flat changes hands.

The kitchen is sleek and configured with a deft touch. Deep cupboards conceal the appliances, and plug sockets fit neatly into the work surfaces. And with floor to ceiling units, there is a surprising amount of storage – everything has its place, allowing the design to shine.

It’s a small block – 12 apartments in total – and three entrances; one for every four flats. It is both quiet and secure, with the added benefit of being on the top two floors with views of the street.

The estate is well-maintained and has recently started a community garden. Service charges are £1,966.59 (inclusive of £10 ground rent), and this can be paid quarterly or monthly. This covers maintenance as well as heating and hot water supply. However, due to the south-facing aspect and the positioning on the top floor, the apartment naturally captures and retains light and warmth.

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landmarks

1 The Spoke

One of the very first of the new wave of cafes to open, that hints at the area around Upper Holloways rapid evolution, the Spoke serves up top-notch food and coffee in a familiar format, but they do it bloody well. For us, it's hard to choose from a tasty veggie fry-up, delicious (millennial) chilli avocado and onion on toast or one of their fish finger sandwiches...

2 Landseer Arms

Tucked away behind Holloway Road, this is a gem of a pub is found at the end of a quiet residential street of the same name. Totally family friendly, the owners have managed to create a genuine community feel which is rare these days. Parents will appreciate the paved outside seating area, which is right opposite a small park – the kids can play in the playground while you have a glass of something cold. Nice!

3 Brave Sir Robin

Get down to this independent alehouse and join the throng of happy craft beer drinkers, sampling an ever-changing range on tap. But it’s not all beer beer beer - the Yard Sale Pizza and easy-going vibe will keep you coming back more than you should!

4 Max's Sandwich Shop

An old client put us on to Max's a while ago now, and it's been a mixed blessing as their sandwiches are so freaking good, they become quite addictive. Proper meals in themselves and cheap (around £7 a hit), it's easy to find yourself getting Deliveroo to pick one up for lunch, or a quick afternoon snack or even as a second breakfast... Any excuse, basically! Oh, and the wine is delicious and inexpensive, so dropping by in person is also worth the effort.

5 Big Jo

Much more than a bakery (though it’s most definitely, deliciously that), this foodie-favourite spot serves up delectable slices of Roman pizza and a daily changing menu of mouth-watering small plates and puddings.