Flight of Fancy
Escape the bounds of reality in this extraordinary studio flat, right in the heart of Notting Hill.

Could It Be Magic?

We’ve seen eclectic. We love eclectic. And then there are homes that take eclectic to a whole new level. And then there’s Clanricarde Gardens…
Combining whimsy with grandeur in a manner that can only be described as entirely delightful, this enormous studio flat manages to ooze class, while at the same time giving off a vibe that fuses Notting Hill’s vintage funk with French savoir-vivre. With an art collection that’ll have you blinking in wonder, and some mouldings to die for, if anywhere will have you believing in the unbelievable, it’s Clanricarde Gardens.

Abracadabra

Our host is a young Londoner who hales from Madagascar, and spends much of his time in Paris. And, from this medley of influences, he’s magicked himself a home that’s entirely unique – and jam-packed full of original art. There’s portraiture by Francoise Nielly, design from Jon Mills, a charcoal by Tessanna Hoare…

Some Enchanted Evening

Facing onto Kensington Palace Gardens (Londoners have nicknamed it Billionaires’ Row, so, should you run out of caviar, you can always try the neighbours) Clanricarde Gardens is up on the first floor of a gracious London townhouse. This home is spacious and bright; light ripples from the original wood floors to the almost edible white cornicing. Come in, make yourself a plate of something delicious in the fully equipped kitchen, and then eat either at the breakfast bar, the dining table, or, if the weather’s clement, out on your own private balcony.  Then select a book from our host’s extensive library, and drape yourself across the sofa, or take notes at the antique writing desk.

As evening approaches, you may wish to freshen up in the soothing, fern-green bathroom that’s a-brim with White Company goodies and fluffy white towels. If you chose to party at home, then you’ll be delighted that your (king sized) bed is right in the heart of the action. And should the end of the evening fade into a bit of a blur – well, that’s your lookout. After all, in a place like this, anything is possible.

Home Truths

Your bed is in the heart of the action. The sitting room, dining room, kitchen and bedroom are all together in one open plan space.

Floor features

• Sitting room with fireplace, dining table, TV
• Kitchen with gas hob, oven, microwave oven, refrigerator, freezer, cafetiere
• Master bedroom with king size bed, desk, wardrobe, TV
• Ensuite bathroom with shower and toilet
• Bedroom with king size bed, warderobe, TV
• Shower bathroom with washing machine
• Cloakroom with toilet and basin

Spread Your Wings…

And when the sun comes up, you’ll find you’re in a beautiful spot. Clanricarde Gardens is right up next to some of the world’s most exclusive properties, and catering for their residents, there’s a host of high end bars, delis, boutiques and restaurants. But if you’re wielding the wallet of a mere mortal, never fear, Notting Hill’s a mecca for all things vintage, and you’ll find plenty of affordable bric a brac at Portobello Road Market. Of course, a stroll in nearby Kensington Gardens is entirely free; if you go, don’t forget to check in on the bronze statue of the ultimate magical mischief maker, Peter Pan. And when the West End calls, no need for fairy dust. The tube can have you at Oxford Circus in less than fifteen minutes.

Local activities

• antiquing
• bars
• galleries
• museums
• opera
• shopping
• theatre