_Quirky Homes: five homes perfect for art lovers
Battersea, London
Situated in an iconic riverside building in Battersea, the layout of our first property was designed by prolific British architect Norman Foster, who joined up four separate apartments to create an unusual and expansive space capable of housing even the most sizable of art collections.
But it’s not only established art collectors likely to fall in love with this home. Those yet to build a signature art collection can instead admire the property’s design: from the media snug’s contrast of bright white with vibrant stripes of colour, to the bubble chairs hanging from a Verner Panton mirrored room or the coloured lighting system that automatically adds a touch of effortless cool to any setting. And the abundance of space means any artistic additions will (quite literally) fit right in.
Basingstoke, Hampshire
Our next property takes us to a converted Grade II listed barn in Basingstoke, Hampshire.
Visitors are likely to double take when first walking through the property’s main doors; the exterior gives no hint of the sophisticated fusion of old and new that awaits within. Only the end sections have been converted into two-storey living spaces, leaving the central area as a light and airy open space. Art enthusiasts are likely to be further impressed by the property’s tall ceilings and thoughtfully placed lighting system – perfect for displaying those serious pieces of art in their full glory.
Clapham, London
Next we move from the contemporary to the classic: an eighteenth century family home by Clapham Common.
Arranged over five floors, Archway House’s generously sized rooms offer plenty of opportunity to feature impressive art. While period fireplaces, original panelling and an antique fitted library may transport visitors to times gone by, rooms such as the modernised main kitchen and contemporary tiled bathroom brings the past perfectly into the present – meaning that art from an array of periods through history will be well suited to the space.
Victoria, London
Move towards central London and we find a luxury penthouse for sale in Victoria’s Nova Building. The property’s furnishings, many of which were commissioned exclusively for the apartment, create an aura of opulence that is perfectly complemented by the surrounding artwork.
Among the notable art on display is a vintage hanging chandelier and an image of iconic seventies supermodel Twiggy, complete with signature pose that, on closer inspection, transpires to be the result of creatively formed chainmail.
It’s not just within the penthouse that artistic inspiration is in abundance, either; views of Buckingham Palace and beyond can all be enjoyed from the comfort of the home.
Tunley, Cirencester
Our final property this month is a Grade II listed house in Cirencester with an artistic heritage; it was designed and previously owned by Ernest Gimson, one of the most influential designers of England’s arts and crafts movement.
Painstakingly restored to the highest standards, The Thatched House retains many of its original period features, including an original spiral staircase, hand carved cornicing and flagstone floors. Its colourful character and rich history combines with a warm neutral palette to allow artwork to truly take centre stage. Gimson may have started The Thatched House’s story, but you may well be the person to add the next chapter. After all, a picture is worth a thousand words.