Charing Cross Road London WC2

Set in the former home of Central Saint Martin's School of Art, this lofty split-level apartment has been beautifully executed by interior designer, Francesco Paolini and lies within the Soho Conservation Area. The building was converted in 2014 by Darling Associates and pays homage to its artistic legacy with high-quality industrial materials, raw textures and sculptural built-in joinery. Set on its fourth floor, this loft-style apartment is an especially bright retreat in the heart of London, with soaring double-height ceilings and wide studio-style windows. Brilliantly located, the building sits between Soho, Bloomsbury and Covent Garden.



The Tour



Built in 1939, the red-brick building is an imposing presence on Charing Cross Road, occupied to the lower levels by the iconic bookshop, Foyles. Its façade was recently cleaned and restored, and is adorned with abundant industrial glazing and Portland stone-carved moulding and reliefs around the doorway. Above the entrance, a carved inscription in a typically modernist typeface bears the name of the building's former educational occupant.



Past the entrance door, entry is to the lobby, served by a porter. There is also an art installation celebrating Central Saint Martin’s' most notable alumni and lift and stairs to the fourth floor, where this apartment lies.



Entry is to a generous hallway that has a direct line of sight to the reception area at the rear. From the outset, the sense of volume and openness is striking, a feel furthered by discreetly integrated storage, white-washed walls and Dinesen Douglas fur floorboards.



A short flight of steps leads to the split-level, open-plan reception area. Soaring double-height ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light, framing leafy treetops views and catching glimpses of London’s skyline.



The dining area is centred around a bespoke built-in banquette that can accommodate a large dining table. Opposite across the space, the generous living room has plenty of space for soft seating, inviting both relaxed lounging and entertaining.



Accessed via the landing, the galley kitchen is fitted with contemporary units and concrete worktops, with overhead cabinetry for additional storage space. Integrated appliances by Miele include induction hob, double oven, plate warmer and coffee machine. Facing the kitchen is a bright reading area, with a built-in library and glass screens that look into the living room. From the hallway are a WC, a utility room, and a storage room.



The staircase ascends to the mezzanine, where the substantial galleried landing overlooks the living area below and the city’s rooftops beyond it. The space serves as a dressing area and is fitted with beautiful built-in joinery, with a mix of wardrobes and drawers.



There are two generously proportioned bedrooms, each with direct access to its own en suite and equipped with built-in wardrobes for seamless storage. The first en suite is finished in rich anthracite-coloured industrial tiles, creating a bold and contemporary feel and fitted with a shower over bath. The second is thoughtfully designed with a walk-in shower enclosed by a glass screen and complemented by light-toned floor tiles.



The Area



Stretching between Trafalgar Square and Tottenham Court Road, Charing Cross lies at the heart of London, with much of central London within easy walking distance.



Just around the corner, Soho has an excellent offering of restaurants, bars, and clubs. Nearby Koya draws a crowd for its signature Japanese Udon noodles, while modern American diner, Rita’s, is a go-to for natural wines and excellent cocktails. Members' club Quo Vadis is another local institution, with private dining rooms and a renowned restaurant offering seasonal British fare. The restaurants of Chinatown are a short walk away.



The Royal Opera House is nearby, as well as some of London’s best theatres, including the Lyric Theatre, the Apollo Theatre, the Gielgud Theatre and the Sondheim Theatre. Seven Dials Market is moments away and home to a selection of design-led shops and cafes, including St John Bakery, Monmouth Coffee, and Apple Butter Cafe.



Most of London’s cultural institutions are within easy reach, including The National Gallery, the British Museum, and the Royal Academy of Arts.



The apartment's central location brings many of London's best state and private schools within easy reach.



Leicester Square station (Northern and Piccadilly lines) is a five-minute walk away. There are plenty of buses at every hour of the day and night, providing excellent links to the whole city. King’s Cross station is easily reached for Eurostar connections.



Tenure: Leasehold / Lease Length: approx. 985 years remaining / Service Charge: approx. £12,200 per annum / Ground Rent: £1000 per annum / Council Tax Band: G