For some, property is more than a home; it’s art. It’s a space to showcase creativity, a space to display passions. We explore homes currently on the market, from charming character properties rooted in history and modern masterpieces characterised by clean lines and natural light to striking architectural designs.
The Allure of Modern Homes
The allure is often characterised by carefully balanced compositions, clean lines, and natural light. Modern homes embrace minimalism. Mass-produced glass, steel, cast iron, and reinforced concrete opened up opportunities for architects to experiment with new materials, leading to the latest trends in contemporary home design we see today.
In modern designs, geometric forms create balance, while asymmetrical shapes lend to a more natural feel. Open-plan living emphasises flexibility and fluidity of space, and large windows welcome natural light. Rooted in modernist principles, contemporary homes hugely focus on simplicity and functionality over ornateness.
Contemporary homes often integrate technology and sustainability into the build. By incorporating eco-friendly principles such as green roofs, rainwater harvesting, and renewable energy, they’re more cost-effective to run with green credentials.
The Charm of Character Homes
Steeped in history, character properties exude charm with its traditional craftsmanship and unique features. Characterised by ornate fireplaces, exposed beams, sash windows, hardwood floors, distinctive layouts, closed rooms, and high ceilings, these homes provide a connection to the past.
From the steeply pitched roofs of the Victorian period and the symmetry of Georgian homes to bold geometric forms of Art Deco buildings and white-painted stucco facades of the Regency style, each property reflects its time in history.
As values and beliefs in society changed, property requirements and design did, too. For example, without the middle-class demand for servants like in the Victorian and Georgian residences, Edwardian homes were smaller and usually without cellars. Character properties were mostly made from locally sourced brick, stone, timber and cob, as sourcing and moving materials from afar was difficult.
As you may have guessed, period properties don’t have modern technology and materials to drive energy efficiency. However, there are ways to make a character property more energy-efficient and modern while preserving history. Grade-listed properties need to seek permission to make adaptations. Non-listed properties can make changes but are advised to keep in line with the style to preserve history and property value.
Traditional craftsmanship built the property, and maintenance may need to be handled by a specialist. This investment will preserve heritage to help increase the investment as the value of a well-maintained character building rises over time.
Character home available to buy
Character home available to rent
Spotlight Homes by Notable Architects
Fenman House, London
Designed by award-winning architects Maccreanor Lavington and with interior architecture by Johnson Naylor, Fenman House is exquisitely designed and finished.
Located in the chic, regenerated quarter of London around St Pancras Basin, a few minutes walk from national and international rail hubs, it’s also adjacent to the boutique-rich Coal Drops Yard development, where art students from nearby St Martins rub shoulders with design-savvy shoppers.
That artistic and creative temperament is reflected in the design and build of Fenman House’s 75 serviced apartments. The exterior is contemporary, bold, and balanced, without resorting to brutalism or crowd-pleasing gimmicks; the interior is intelligent, tranquil and minimalist, paying tribute to the industrial heritage of the King’s Cross area.
This 3-bedroom apartment in Fenman House is a perfect example: with herringbone parquet floors throughout, two bathrooms and a private balcony looking out to the Persian-inspired Jellicoe Gardens below. There’s even more green space above – with a landscaped residents' rooftop garden designed by Chelsea Flower Show award winner Tom Stuart-Smith.
Price: £1,975,000
Agent: Graciela Loveday - +44 020 7467 2023
Properties for Sale in Fenman House
Gasholders, London
A functional and unique environment to suit the modern lifestyle, the residential drums of Gasholders are an integral part of King’s Cross’ regeneration from an industrial site to a hub of activity. A collaboration between Wilkinson Eyre Architects and Jonathan Tuckey Design breathed new life into the heavy industrial Grade II listed structures.
Sitting at varying heights to reflect the movement of the past, the gasholders' structures are clad in steel and glass panels with external pinhole shutters that welcome light. Home to open-plan apartments, a gym, a spa with pool, cinema, games room, car parking, lounge and conference room, the iconic structure on King’s Cross’ skyline is the epitome of modern living.
Price: £1,180,000
Agent: Graciela Loveday +44 020 7467 2023
Properties for Sale in Gasholders
24 Leonard Street, New York
The embodiment of sophistication, 24 Leonard Street is a fusion of classic and contemporary design. An expansive open-plan living area, floor-to-ceiling windows, and bi-folding doors to the outside create a bright, social and homely environment.
The pre-war low-rise building at 24 Leonard Street was designed by Edmund Hollander. Apartments here are sleek and awe-inspiring, with clean lines and high ceilings. From the chef’s kitchen to the outdoor oasis featuring seating and a private 8ft pool, 24 Leonard Street sets the benchmark for metropolitan living.
Price: £20,592,000 / $26,000,000 USD
Agent: Farah Moinian +001 917 379 3600
Property for Sale in Leonard Street
400 East 51st Street, New York
Exuding sophistication, character and distinctive charm, the recently refurbished 21AB at 400 East 51st Street offers 10 ft coffered ceilings, exquisite detailing and a unique stained glass window. In a perfect blend of modern and classic, the property features state-of-the-art lighting, sound systems and technology, panelling, traditional materials, and parquet flooring.
Designed by renowned architect Costas Kondylis, The 32-story Grand Beekman is home to condos of varying designs and sizes. Each residence enjoys a 24-hour concierge, fitness centre, playroom, lounge, garden room, and spectacular city views. A modern classic, The Grand Beekman apartment is a refined design rooted in tradition and elegance.
Price: £4,039,200 / $5,100,000 USD
Agent: Brian Meier - +001 917 656 3230
Property for Sale in East 51st Street
Casa Legorreta, Mexico
A truly modern home, Casa Legorreta in San Miguel de Allende is a property of open spaces and natural, playful light. Solid colonnade walls flow throughout the residence, casting striking shadows and light patterns, while the roof terrace welcomes sun and shade.
A place to relax, the stairway water feature creates a gentle, relaxing echo to a backdrop of natural textures and warm colours.
The large living room features slide-open doors to bring the outside into the outdoor terrace and gardens. All outdoor spaces are designed not to be overlooked by neighbouring properties for ultimate privacy, including the outdoor dining area with a fireplace. The master suite features a glass parapet balcony overlooking the pool and the iconic Parroquia church. A delicate balance of splendour and tranquillity, Casa Legorreta is a property designed with modern lifestyles and nature in mind.
Price: $6,995,000 USD
Agent/Office: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. - +524 151 544971
Property for Sale in Casa Legorreta
Choosing Your Character, Modern or Architecturally Designed Home
Choosing between a charming character home with period decor, a sleek modern home or an architect-designed home isn’t simple. Each option has benefits and drawbacks.
When properly maintained, character homes can fetch a good return as homebuyers look to own a piece of history. Any updates to a period home should be carefully planned, with permissions where necessary, to maintain or increase the value.
Modern homes are easier to maintain with easy-to-source materials; they’re often more energy efficient, too. Architect-designed homes can be an acquired taste. However, the right buyer will be willing to invest in art.
Whether you’re looking for a modern masterpiece, a charming character home, or an architectural design to turn heads, BHHS London is ready to help you. Feel free to contact us to discuss what would suit you best.
