Architect Simon Gill reveals the inspiration behind The Lodge
How paintings and perspective influenced the Gothic conversion dubbed Grand Designs’ most extravagant build.
Designed by Simon Gill Architects
A wood-clad snug, elevated beyond the dining area, offers a cosy retreat complete with an open fire and integrated seating. Adjacent, the garden room invites relaxed conversation beneath exposed beams, effortlessly transitioning from winter warmth to summer openness through sliding glass doors that lead to the secluded garden.
A curved staircase descends to the lower ground floor, where natural light fills every room, including an impressive 17-metre climate-controlled swimming pool. This wellness haven also includes a shower room and spacious sauna. The games room – featuring an air hockey table, a bar with antique glass and bespoke artwork by Simon Gill – opens onto a patio, blending leisure and nature with ease.
The bespoke kitchen balances style and utility with dark wood cabinetry, a Quooker tap and integrated Miele appliances. At its centre, a sculptural waterfall island offers room for prep and casual dining alike. The dining area hosts ten under a transom skylight and statement chandeliers, setting the scene for both everyday meals and celebratory feasts.
Spread across the first floor, the principal suite is a study in refinement — vaulted ceilings, a sky-lit dressing room and a spacious bathroom complete with stone flooring, a freestanding tub and rainfall shower. The lower ground floor features two further en suite bedrooms and a self-contained studio, all bathed in natural light and designed with privacy in mind. On the ground floor, a fifth bedroom offers flexibility for guests or family, served by a sleek bathroom.
South-facing and entirely secluded, the walled garden is an idyllic outdoor extension. Fire up the barbecue or listen to the gentle water feature in the separate flower garden — both spaces offer a deep connection to the outdoors, while providing direct access to the cemetery’s peaceful green expanse.
This unique home is remarkably private yet moments from some of London’s best restaurants and boutiques.
Start your day with sweet treats from Little Sourdough Kitchen then caffeinate at Carbon Kopi. The Thames Path is a 10-minute walk away. Or, for retail therapy, head to boutiques Image London or Kyra Loves. Further afield, The White Horse in Parsons Green is a favoured local watering hole. Closer to home, Ruth Rogers’ Michelin-starred Italian restaurant The River Café is within a 10-minute walk.
Chelsea & South KensingtonNo request is too big or small for our concierge team. Premier League tickets to an all-important game, specialist piano tuners, a Michelin-starred plant-based chef. It’s a yes to all of the above.
Finesse your stayHow paintings and perspective influenced the Gothic conversion dubbed Grand Designs’ most extravagant build.
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