Inside a Corten-clad sanctuary in southwest London

Photography: The Modern House

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A rugged Corten steel exoskeleton conceals almost 3,600 sq ft of living space inside this striking South London home. Designed by architects Eldridge London, it skillfully blends industrial materials with moments of urban serenity.

The ochre-coloured West Putney residence is a celebration of materiality inside and out, with its striking metal exterior perforated by irregularly placed large spans of glass, which flood the interiors with light while concealing the house’s inner workings. While the exterior is defined by hard lines and straight edges, the interior offers playful riposte thanks to an abundance of warm birch plywood panelling and curves.

The curved staircase is a major talking point. Enclosed by bookshelves on both sides, it is both extremely contemporary and subtly evocative of Streamline Moderne’s nautical curves. This artery connects all levels of the house and also informs the layout of the kitchen beyond, which is fitted with bespoke walnut cabinetry by Luke Haughton and Broughton Moore slate worktops.

A glazed hallway between the dining and living rooms acts as a bridge over the courtyard garden, which can be enjoyed from the lower levels. Located at the rear of the house, the sitting room is positioned to take in views over the courtyard and the leafy garden terraces through full-height sliding glass doors (there’s also a suspended log-burning fireplace to make it extra cosy).

The five-bedroom West Putney property is for sale via The Modern House for £3.45m. Best known as the starting point of the annual University Boat Race, West Putney retains its village charm despite its proximity to central London. And with its bustling high street and easy access to Wimbledon Common, Putney Heath, and Putney Lower Common, it offers the best of both worlds.