Thick swathes of ivy obscure this unexpected one-bedroom contemporary house, positioned in the highly sought-after area of Brockley, south-east London. An unassuming slate-coloured brick façade belies a set of beautifully bright, creatively designed interior spaces by Maack Architects, replete with a considered palette of oak, Corian, plywood and expansive levels of glazing. Occupying a secluded yet unusually shaped triangular plot, the house is wonderfully enclosed by a private courtyard at the front and rear, creating a peaceful oasis within the bustle of the city.

The Architect

Focusing on gap sites and forgotten spaces, Maack Architects unlock the value of small and often overlooked sites to create high-quality, design-led sustainable homes. Based in Bath, Maack works across a broad portfolio of projects across the UK, from Special Educational Needs Schools and gymnasiums to garage conversions, house extensions, refurbishments and new builds.

The Tour

Previously occupied by a single-story garage, the house sits back from the road behind a wall of subtle German-engineered brick. Partly hidden behind dense foliage, its smooth, muted hue contrasts brilliantly against this vivid pop of green. This established planting continues within the entrance to the house, which sits neatly behind a front courtyard with white shingle underfoot and a peaceful area to sit and enjoy the sun.

The front door opens immediately onto the open-plan living spaces, purposefully designed to take advantage of its dual-aspect layout, allowing natural light to permeate through multiple angles. A minimalist kitchen sits neatly in a U-shape at the front of the plan, where a large box-picture window frame views across the courtyard opposite. Sleek white cabinetry and Corian worksurfaces cast light around the space. Oak beams overhead emphasise a sense of volume in this room while offering a distinctive linear focal point against the curved wall, which undulates to the side. Full-height glazed doors slide open to reveal a charming slither of the garden.

The spacious double bedroom has plenty of cleverly concealed storage in the form of plywood cabinetry built flush with the wall or open shelving for books. Large single-paned slit windows have been sensitively placed to allow light to pour through while ensuring privacy. The bathroom leads from here behind a sliding pocket door. Configured as a wet room, the shower is largely executed in small mosaic tiles, while slate slabs ground the space. A circular skylight cleverly mirrors the curve of the wall.

The house also has a newly installed living roof designed to encourage local wildlife and improve insulation.

Outdoor Space

Sliding glazed doors in the living area open onto a levelled decked area at the rear, where ivy drapes over the rear wall adding a delicate sense of texture. Integrated planters maximise the sense of the space; there is also a further ledge for pot plants. West-facing, this area gets the best of the afternoon sun while the front courtyard provides a beautiful spot to enjoy a morning coffee.

The Area

Revelon Road is a short walk from the centre of Brockley, an ever-popular neighbourhood in South London. There are numerous cafes, restaurants and bars, all within easy reach. The legendary

Browns of Brockley coffee shop, Joyce natural wine bar, Parlez and L’Oculto for excellent tapas and a wide array of conveniences are all close by. Good As Gold is also great for coffee and only moments away, as is the Renaissance Yoga Studio and Water into Beer. Brockley Farmers’ Market runs every Saturday. Crofton Park is home to Jones of Brockley, a wonderful local deli offering a wide selection of seasonal produce, natural wine and craft beer.

The beautiful gothic Nunhead Cemetry is a 15-minute stroll away. The wide, open green spaces of either Hilly Fields or Peckham Rye are a 20-minute walk away.

Nearby local schools include two currently Ofsted-rated ‘Outstanding’ primary schools; John Stainer Community Primary School and Haberdashers’ Hatcham Free School and Secondary, Prendergast School.

The closest station is Brockley, just a three-minute walk, running Thameslink services to London Bridge in approximately 15 minutes. Alternatively, Brockley Station runs London Overground services to Highbury and Islington in about 30 minutes and now connects quickly to the Elizabeth Line. Brockley also runs National Rail services and Thameslink services citywide.

Council Tax Band: C

Please note that all areas, measurements and distances given in these particulars are approximate and rounded. The text, photographs and floor plans are for general guidance only. The Modern House has not tested any services, appliances or specific fittings — prospective purchasers are advised to inspect the property themselves. All fixtures, fittings and furniture not specifically itemised within these particulars are deemed removable by the vendor.