A grand entrance, high ceilings, and subtly decadent decor – Horbury Crescent is as lovely as the treasures at the nearby Portobello Road Market. However, as you head left into the open-plan living area, the crowds feel far away. A delicate chandelier and gilded landscapes are offset by the bold abstract that hangs above the linen sofa, while the original fireplace and sash windows remind you of this building’s heritage.

Return to the entrance to find the master bedroom with birds decorating the wall behind the upholstered double bed. The bathroom has a bath and a shower amidst slabs of marble – look closely at the sink and you’ll spot a pair of Orthoceras fossils. This home is both old and young, classic yet avant-garde but always ahead of the curve.