With my job as an Interior Stylist, I am lucky to be able to see inside some of the most stunning houses in the country and believe me, I often have serious house envy! I am constantly inspired by all different types of architecture, colours and styles but, if money were not object then I would definitely choose a riverside apartment on the Thames. As much as I love all areas of London for different reasons; Shoreditch for design and markets, Stoke Newington for its laid back vibe and Islington for its cool shops and pubs, you can’t beat a riverside location. Being beside water makes me feel so relaxed and with a Thameside position, you would never tire of the view.
So, when I was asked by Tepilo, Sarah Beeny’s online estate agency, to choose any property I liked (sadly not to keep) it was no surprise that I fell in love with the Anchor Brewhouse. Literally a stones throw from Tower Bridge, it was bought in 1787 by a John Courage and became a well-known brewery which lasted for many years, until in 1985 it was converted into luxury riverside apartments.
Predictably, the layout of the apartment has been designed to make the most of the views with the living room and bedroom positioned at the back of the property, but what I love the most are the sweet little window seats. The proximity of them are so close to the river, I am sure it would feel like you were on a river boat – but without the motion sickness! I can imagine many-a-day sat here simple watching the river traffic.
Whilst it looks like there have been some modifications to the outside of the building, it has been done in a sympathetic way. This conversion is a great example of how old and new can work together in a harmonious way. The beautiful factory and warehouse buildings play such an important part of London’s history, it would be an absolute honour to live in a building such as this.
Online estate agencies are not a new phenomenon and yet it still feels like unknown territory. My feeling is that we are so paranoid about being ripped off by estate agents that it seems hard to trust anyone, including online agencies that promise to save you money by cutting out the high agency commissions. I have had a good look at Tepilo and from what I can see it has some pretty good customer feedback with some equally large saving that could be made. It also has the advantage of being owned by Sarah Beeny, an interiors and home expert.
