London, W2 4AB

With its soft green render and traditional railings, this Bayswater house sits comfortably within its setting. Behind the retained period façade however lies an entirely new home – rebuilt from the ground up with a steel and reinforced concrete frame, engineered by architects Gebler Tooth. Inside, the home that unfolds is far more generous than expected, with a wedge-shaped footprint expanding the space as you move in. Design by LXA takes a contemporary approach across five floors, with the main reception room on the raised ground level. Here, a Chesney fireplace pairs with traditional oak panelling, while bifold doors extend the space to an enclosed private terrace. Below, the kitchen and dining area forms the social heart of the home. Bespoke German cabinetry sits alongside Yukon stone surfaces, smoked-grey mirrored splashbacks and a full suite of Miele appliances. Grasscloth walls and linen pendants lend warmth to the dining area, where full-length glazing connects a small second terrace. Elsewhere, a walnut-lined family room offers a more intimate retreat. Three bedrooms occupy the upper levels, finished to serene effect in silk-blend carpets, Italian polished plaster and a muted Farrow & Ball palette. The principal suite takes the entire first floor, its spacious footprint including floor-to-ceiling storage and a considered ensuite bathroom. Two further bedrooms lie above, served by a shower room. Behind the scenes, the specification is equally impressive. Mitsubishi air-source heat pumps, whole-house heat recovery, integrated air conditioning and comprehensive security systems have all been incorporated. Residents benefit from a ten year new-build warranty, and can also gain access to the private garden square opposite for a small annual fee. Just minutes from Westbourne Grove, the beating heart of Notting Hill, the best of the neighbourhood is at your doorstep. Pick up an early coffee from Beam or sit down for a late morning brunch at Sunday in Brooklyn or Granger & Co. The lively thrum of Portobello Road vaunts antique stalls and vintage shops, with rows of luxury boutiques along Westbourne Grove lining your walk there. End the day with a visit to Gold for drinks, or head to three Michelin-star restaurant Core by Clare Smyth. Bayswater – 9 mins Queensway – 10 mins Royal Oak – 13 mins