Westbourne Terrace

Spread over the third and fourth floors of a stucco-fronted townhouse, Westbourne Terrace is a family home with an artistic persuasion. Contemporary yet characterful, conversation-starting artwork is curated with a collector’s eye. 

In the main living space on the top floor, a pillar-box red sculpture of three female soldiers by Chinese artist Huang Gang competes for attention with the views beyond the bi-folding doors. There are no shortage of pieces to inspire here, from framed calligraphy to Mexican ceramics and a composition of Chicago at night by acclaimed British photographer David Yarrow. 

Clusters of furniture zone the space into corners for reading, socialising and kicking back with a drink from the bar cart. A sculptural white leather sofa pops against dark navy walls and armchairs circle a coffee table covered with contemporary art tomes. A row of skylights keeps things bright – as does the decked patio beyond. Lined with plant pots and overlooking the rooftops of Paddington, it brings the outside in. 

On the floor below, the open-plan kitchen and dining room is designed with entertaining in mind. Keep one eye on friends and family gathered around the circular table as you cook – and one on the entrance hall through the porthole window. White walls, glossy cabinets and hexagonal tiles create a neutral backdrop for plants and eclectic furniture, including an ornate Ming dynasty rosewood console table sourced from Beijing. The hallway’s antique chest is also worth noting – it was once used to store Buddhist scripture in a Tibetan monastery. 

All three bedrooms – one of which is set up as a study – and a sleek family shower room are found on this floor. In the principal bedroom, fitted wardrobes and bookcases offer ample storage to keep things clutter-free, while a deep green feature wall, bronze sculpture busts and wooden floors add warmth. There’s a spa-like quality to the en suite, which features a shower over the bathtub. The building also comes with lift access.