Buying, selling and letting - August, 2000

Inspired by nature and influenced by architects like Frank Lloyd Wright, the US ‘Western’ approach to living is all about space, versatility and modernity. It’s about living comfortably — probably one reason why it’s endured for over half a century and continues to be relevant. So as unlikely as it might seem to find American architecture in Milton Keynes, that’s exactly what’s on offer at Alfred McAlpine’s new luxury homes at Loughton Leys in Loughton Village.

On the outside, the ‘ranch style’ pitched roofs, glass, timber and brick provide a sweeping sightline that’s unashamedly modern but still retains a silhouette not out of place in the countryside. A wide lawn, bordered by mature trees, adds to the generous, rambling feeling of this small development of only five three- to four-bedroom homes.
Inside, the clever layout centres on the ‘dining hall’ — a multi-functional space with stairs leading to a galleried landing and additional rooms opening off in different directions. This not only gives a welcome feeling of separation between living, sleeping and eating areas but offers marvellous interior vistas. The eye travels across the hall, through the study or living room, and past French doors to the wooden decking and the expanse of green outside.

Pale Swiss laminate wood floors are nicely offset by nearly black window and door frames. The show home continues this natural theme by drawing from a palette of creams and beiges and emphasising texture in the decor. Attention to detail is apparent in the interior doors with inset glass panels, brass window fittings and door handles, and a lighting scheme centred on abundant downlighters. Deep storage cupboards and wardrobes, and the two larger-than-average five-piece en suites and family bathroom are also worth a special mention, as are the brushed steel double oven and six-burner hob that act as a focal point for the kitchen.

In spite of the green trees, birdsong and village surrounding, Loughton Leys is only a short and peaceful walk from Milton Keynes railway station and city centre, and only minutes from the A5 and M1.
This is a home that is stylish enough to impress but also comfortable enough to actually live in — something to appreciate wherever in the world you happen to be.

The Thistledown and Brambletye at Loughton Leys are available, with prices starting at £395,000. Contact the Alfred McAlpine sales office on 01908 609781 for more details.

An area of contrasts, Brixton has a diversity that demands closer inspection. Originally a wealthy Victorian suburb, this corner of south-west London has evolved through numerous guises to become home to a wealth of different cultures, lifestyles and attitudes.

Walking around Brixton, it’s easy to remember why you wanted to live in a city in the first place. Music, market stalls, street-smart fashion and food from all over the world vie for attention in a feast for the senses. Some of London’s best nightlife is to be found here, with the trendiest clubs, bars, restaurants, and world cinema in a world class venue — The Ritzy.

There’s a strong Afro-Caribbean community here, with many afro-centric shops and boutiques, and Brixton market remains one of the best places in London for ingredients for Caribbean cooking. The streets bounded by Brixton Road, Atlantic Road and Coldharbour Lane bustle with excitement — and dance music floats on the air from clubs centred on The Fridge and the converted St Martin’s Church.
By comparison, nearby Clapham comes across as the quiet elder sister — but appearances can be deceptive. Dominated by the rambling green of the common, Clapham has an aura of gentility, long lazy afternoons and a place for children’s games. Look a little closer however, and you discover the green space is bordered by a row of chic eateries and boutiques. Innovative and eclectic shops, wary of West End rents, have made their home here. Add a few relaxed and stylish bars, another of London’s best repertory cinemas and a top-notch supermarket, and Clapham begins to look like the perfect place to play — whatever your age.

One former childhood haunt that looks set to appeal to grown-ups is Park Lofts, Sapcote Real Lofts’ conversion of a former Victorian school in Clapham Park. Featuring Sapcote’s trademark ‘shell’ lofts, internal space is very much left to the imagination of the buyer — resulting in a home that is as flexible and full of character as you want to make it.
Each of the nine lofts currently available is unique, but all feature high, 14ft to 24ft ceilings, a mezzanine level to help structure the area and full-length windows. The sizes vary from 900 to 1500 square feet, but all offer a dizzying sense of space. Many of the original fireplaces, roof beams and tiled hallways are still in place, and the school’s outer walls will form a neat boundary to future landscaped gardens. It’s enough to make you consider going back to school.

More information on Clapham Park Lofts is available from Sapcote Real Lofts on 020 7937 3878.