Amongst the gentle slopes of Muswell Hill, between Queens and Highgate Woods, is this stylish four-bedroom terraced house. Part of an exclusive row of award-winning modern homes that was completed in 2009, this is a fine example of contemporary design. With open-plan interiors that maximise light and space and a private roof terrace on top with views of Alexandra Palace, this is a great contender for a family home.
Connaught Gardens sits in a triangle between Muswell Hill, Crouch End and Highgate, so it could scarcely be better placed. All are within walking distance, which means the array of shops, restaurants and cafes available rivals anywhere in London. Surrounded by green space, the immediate vicinity has the feel of the countryside. Combined with the convenience an N10 postcode affords, it makes for an exceptional spot to put down roots.
Connaught Gardens, Muswell Hill, 4 Bed. House
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BRICKWORKS SAYS
Spaces that bring people together are always a firm favourite for us, and we really love the way the open-plan kitchen-diner works here. Located on garden level, the kitchen layout is simple yet functional with a handy utility room that is attached yet hidden away. The dining area seamlessly connects to the outside via bi-fold doors opening up to the rear garden, perfect for entertaining in the warmer months.
For us, of the four spacious bedrooms, the two positioned on the upper-level are particularly appealing. Incorporating both clerestory windows and lower-height windows mean the light enters these rooms from different angles, giving a lovely quality throughout. They feel safe and secluded.
The combination of outside spaces is also pleasingly unusual. There’s a 35 foot lush garden at the back which gives you the best views of the rear of the house – the broad, picture windows and wooden cladding are seriously handsome. At the front, there's a glazed entrance with a minimalist front door as a nod to the 60s; but the best bit (we think) is the rooftop. It’s the perfect spot to take time out: peaceful, with a gorgeous view of Alexandra Palace and its surrounds.
THE OWNERS SAY
We’ll always have very happy memories of standing on our roof terrace with friends each year, watching the Bonfire Night fireworks at Alexandra Palace and seeing all the other fireworks looking east, all the way across the city. We noticed an absence of road noise when in the garden, or on the roof terrace that we rarely notice in elsewhere in the city.
Opening the sliding doors from the kitchen-diner through to the garden means we could regularly entertain and have the best parties on summer evenings.
Also, the neighbours are helpful and kind, and a true community has been formed in and around the Gardens.
POINTS TO CONSIDER
The EPC gives a current Energy Efficiency Rating: B & Environmental Impact Rating: B
Part of the borough of Haringey, the house falls into Council Tax Band G (£2,385 for 2018/2019).
Connaught Gardens is a multi-awarding winning development by Pollard Thomas Edwards Architects. Although different from the Edwardian houses surrounding it, the row of 7 homes blends in respectfully with its white rendered frontage and dark Cedar cladding to the rear.
The development is still an ongoing project but is very nearly complete; the flats adjacent have been built with only the internal fit-outs remaining.
The house is in the catchment area for several Ofsted rated ‘Outstanding’ schools, including Muswell Hill, Our Lady of Muswell Catholic and Coldfall primary schools.
A final highlight might be your daily commute to Highgate station. Cutting through Queens Woods reduces the walk to around 15 minutes – what a lovely way to start the day?
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landmarks
1 Victoria Stakes
The Victoria Stakes is an independent pub that is genuinely part of the local community. Refurbished following a fire a few years back, the disaster seems to have only galvanised the owners and clientele – it's come back better than ever. With a courtyard out back for summer feasting and first-floor dining room for more formal occasions, everything you could wish for from you 'local' is covered.
2 Alexandra Palace Farmer's Market
The Farmers market at Ally Pally has become an institution for local foodies. The range of produce is superb, and there are always some delicious morsels being cooked fresh on the day. And, if you're feeling fit, you can press on up the hill and be rewarded with one of the finest views of London to be found anywhere.
3 Toffs of Muswell Hill
This well-established fish & chip shop is a stomping ground for locals. The freshly-fried seafood isn't exactly a healthy option, but it is always lip-smackingly good. Eat inside the licensed restaurant where there is always a friendly atmosphere, or taken away and enjoyed at home. Either work for us.
4 Everyman Muswell Hill
This beautiful Grade II listed Art Deco building, built by English architect George Coles, was formerly an Odeon cinema. Recently taken over by Everyman, they’ve brought the space back to life with their signature lush seating and refurbished screens. Here you can enjoy a slice of pizza and drink while you watch from an array of entertainment options: mainstream and independent films, and screenings of live theatre and music events.
5 Cheeses of Muswell Hill
Cheeses of Muswell Hill does exactly what it says and does it incredibly well. With knowledgeable and passionate staff, a wide selection if fromagerie to choose from and a plethora of cheese-related stuff, it's a heaven for cheese lovers and general foodies alike.