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Property Type: Period
Project Type: Conversion of Retail Unit into Apartment
Location: Notting Hill
Size: 692 ft2
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Notable Features: 1 Bedroom, 2 Bathroom, Kitchen, Landscaped Gardens
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Specification: Bespoke Kitchens, Bespoke Wardrobes, Luxury Bathrooms, Under Floor Heating, Bespoke Wall & Floor Finishes, Period Features & Detailing, Floor to Ceiling Windows, Home Automation, Bespoke Staircase, Bespoke Lighting Design
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From Store to Studio in Trendy Notting Hill
Set within a handsome period property in the heart of West London’s fashionable Notting Hill, this 692 ft² residential conversion demonstrates how thoughtful design can transform a challenging commercial space into a sophisticated and highly desirable home. Originally occupied by a disused cloth retailer’s store, the property required a sensitive and carefully considered approach to convert the existing retail unit into a contemporary one-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment.

The project presented a particular planning challenge due to the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea’s strict policies regarding the conversion of retail premises into residential accommodation. Securing permission required a sympathetic redesign that respected the character of the existing period building while creating a high-quality modern home appropriate to its prominent location.

The design concept draws inspiration from the architectural character of Notting Hill and the eclectic atmosphere of the surrounding Portobello Road area. Period detailing was combined with subtle industrial influences and contemporary finishes to create an interior that feels both established and modern. Original architectural features were carefully retained and complemented by bespoke elements throughout, resulting in a distinctive aesthetic with a strong sense of craftsmanship.

The apartment’s open-plan arrangement maximises the available floor area and creates a generous sense of space. Floor-to-ceiling windows introduce abundant natural light, while the carefully considered layout establishes distinct areas for cooking, dining, relaxing and sleeping without compromising the open character of the principal living space. A contemporary bespoke kitchen provides a clean, functional focal point, contrasting beautifully with the warmth and texture of the large-format herringbone flooring.

Bespoke joinery features prominently throughout the apartment. Custom wardrobes make intelligent use of the available space, while the existing front vaults were cleverly converted into a walk-in wardrobe, providing valuable additional storage without disrupting the main living areas. A bespoke staircase, lighting scheme and home-automation system further enhance both the functionality and individuality of the property.

The bathrooms continue the blend of period character and contemporary luxury. Antique reclaimed tiles, crackle-glazed Metro tiles and exposed shower fittings introduce a sense of historic charm, while luxury sanitaryware and carefully selected finishes provide a refined modern edge. Bespoke wall and floor finishes reinforce the attention to detail evident throughout the scheme.

Underfloor heating provides discreet comfort, allowing the interiors to remain uncluttered and enhancing the feeling of luxury. Bespoke lighting was designed to complement the architecture and materials, creating different moods throughout the apartment and highlighting key features after dark.

Outside, the apartment benefits from landscaped courtyard gardens, providing a valuable private retreat within the vibrant urban setting of Notting Hill.

Ultimately, the project represents a successful transformation of an overlooked commercial space into a highly individual and desirable residence. By combining period features, industrial-inspired detailing, bespoke craftsmanship and contemporary technology, the former retail unit has been reinvented as a sophisticated home in one of London’s most characterful and sought-after neighbourhoods.​