The Wik Duplex

Part of a boutique development reimagined by interior designer Tala Fustok, this one-bedroom duplex apartment’s pared-back finish offsets its period bones. Honouring the building’s historic usage as a photography studio, the home plays with proportion, natural light and minimalist colour.  

There’s a voluminous feel to the open-plan kitchen and reception room, evident from the moment you step inside. A vaulted ceiling draws the eye upwards to where exposed ebony joists command attention and well-angled spotlights illuminate the social space. Contrasting wooden and Chroma flooring is used to subtly carve up the space into different zones for eating, lounging and cooking. A matte-black Häcker kitchen pairs form with function: smooth surfaces and a mirrored splashback neatly frame high-spec integrated appliances. From the living area, a Crittall-framed door leads onto a private terrace.  

The understated aesthetic ensues in the double bedroom downstairs. There’s a tactility to the wooden headboard and floors, contrasting with the whitewashed tones that span the rest of the room. A free-standing tub is poised for long soaks, or the walk-in shower next door is equally as stylish with Solus tiles and a skylight.  

Peruse the paperbacks at Queen’s Park Books and the well-stocked wine fridges at The Salusbury Wine Store before tucking into an Australian-inspired brunch at Milk Beach or shopping for beautiful blooms at Scarlet & Violet. Limber up for a game of tennis in Queen’s Park, or for a more relaxing – and altruistic – activity, venture a little further up Chamberlayne Road to the Lexi, an independent cinema run by volunteers, with all proceeds going to charity.