Living in a large city can be enjoyable and advantageous. However, when space is scarce and prices are high, it might be difficult to find inexpensive, suitable accommodation.
Because of the increase in the population, architects are developing innovative space-saving solutions.
The following London residences demonstrate unique approaches to small-space architecture in urban settings.
- London’s Smallest House
- The Slim House
- A Clever Studio Flat
- London’s Thinnest Home
- The Smallest House In Chelsea
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1. London’s Smallest House
This home located at 10 According to old London mythology, Hyde Park Place is believed to be the tiniest house in the city.
The 1805 tube-shaped edifice is situated between two mansion complexes and is part of the Tyburn Convent, which houses a community of resident nuns.
This property spans approximately three feet (95cm) in width and is smaller than most custom-built wardrobes.
It was last listed for sale in 1933 and is believed to consist of two rooms connected by a ladder and separated by a partition.
It is believed that the house was constructed to dissuade grave thieves who used the passage to get access to the adjoining St. George’s Graveyard.
It was once referred to as the “Dwarf’s dream house.” Urban mythology states that it may have been a watchman’s residence, while another tale claims that a dwarf once lived there.
A more reasonable hypothesis was that it served as modest servants’ quarters attached to a nearby manor.
The property was sold at auction in 1913 for £9,250, which was a substantial sum of money at the time.
The building was devastated by bombing during the Blitz in 1941, and following the Second World War, it was merged into the adjacent Tyburn Convent, of which it still forms a portion.
It maintained its original aspect until recently when a new red brick facelift was completed.
2. The Slim House
The Slim House fits into a 2.3-meter-wide space between two larger structures. The narrow home is a model of how to maximize the tiniest of urban spaces to construct a residence.
Tristan Wigfall, director of Alma-nac architects, converted a two-bedroom, one-bathroom home with no dining area into a four-bedroom, two-bathroom residence with a dining area that opens onto the backyard.
He accomplished this by extending the building rearward and upward.
The sloping roof and floor design elevate ceiling heights in a number of rooms, enhancing the feeling of space.
Multiple skylights and a central light well allowed natural light to enter the slender dwelling.
3. A Clever Studio Flat
Studio living is mostly an urban phenomenon, and living in what is effectively one huge room presents unique obstacles.
This studio apartment, remodeled by Olga Alexeeva of Black & Milk Residential, is a wonderful example of maximizing a tiny area.
With a few alterations, the main room of this apartment may now function as a living area, eating area, home office, and bedroom.
This studio demonstrates that quality of life need not be compromised in 25 square meters.
You can host up to six guests for supper, and you also have a luxurious bed, a gorgeous and practical kitchen, and a bathroom.
4. London’s Thinnest Home
The 1000-square-foot house, which is only six feet wide, is well renowned as London’s thinnest residence.
The six-foot-wide house is nestled between two storefronts in the lively city area of Shepherd’s Bush.
Surprisingly accommodating 1,034 square feet of living area on five storeys, the residence embraces its slender layout.
A tiny entryway leads to the main living room, which contains an old fireplace, upon entry.
A flexible floor plan makes the home more hospitable than may be expected.
The residence’s primary living spaces are separated by floors and five levels. The principal living space is positioned on the ground floor and in the rear of the residence.
A large window on the back wall, facing the private garden, lets in an abundance of natural light to create a light and airy atmosphere in the compact room.
The kitchen and dining space are located on the lower ground floor, one level down.
The kitchen is located in the front of the house, while the dining space is located in the back and provides access to the backyard garden.
On the first floor, two levels up is one of the home’s two bedrooms and a tiny study area. Additionally, a private rooftop terrace may be accessible from this level.
The additional bedroom is located on the third (top) story, while the second bathroom occupies the entire second floor.
In addition to offering a unique experience, the house is located near various London attractions, including Shepherd’s Bush Market, Bush Theatre, Westfield Shopping Centre, vibrant pubs, cafes, and restaurants are also within walking distance.
5. The Smallest House In Chelsea
This 290-square-foot house was an old candy shop from the 1960s and has been listed for sale in London for £1.2 million.
This charming one-bedroom residence, dubbed “the smallest house in Chelsea,” was purchased by the present owner in 2017 and modernized with meticulous care.
In addition to being adjacent to St. Luke’s and Christ Church, it was previously the gravedigger’s cottage.
Electric floor heating throughout and a wonderfully remodeled winding staircase that goes directly to the upstairs bedroom.
The smart Bulthaup kitchen and a beautifully constructed shower space with Warmup Wall heating are just a few of the modern amenities included in this home.
It may be little, but style is certainly not compromised.
The master bedroom suite, which features breathtaking views of St. Luke’s Gardens and Britten Street, has been thoughtfully created.
In addition to a retractable bed with an LG projector and Bose sound bar above it, there is a window seat, extra storage space, an opening roof light, and stairs leading to a private rooftop garden.
There is just enough room for a garden sofa and a boozy outside bar in this minimalist and uncluttered outdoor environment.
This home is located on a tree-lined street and provides access to St Luke’s Gardens and the shops, bars, theatres, and restaurants of Chelsea Green.