Party girl to parent
Making the switch from party girl to parent can be quite a tumultuous experience and finding a home that meets the requirements of both lifestyles is a dilemma that many young buyers face. But one South East London self-proclaimed club-goer has done just that and her gorgeous apartment has accompanied her in to parenthood without an architect, builder or decorator in sight.
Outreach worker Natalie Lodge, 38, purchased her two-bedroom converted flat in SE15 four years ago. She comments: “I was in my early 30s when I came to buy my first home. I wanted a property that would suit my party going lifestyle and when I came across my lovely flat in Rye Hill Park I could not believe my luck!”
“It had everything I was looking for and more. Designed by award winning architect, John Smart, the flat had a quirky mix of period features yet retained a modern usability. The open plan kitchen and dining area provided the ultimate party venue, fantastic for dinner with friends, cocktails with the girls or an all-out celebration.”
In 2009, Natalie married founder of Event Sound Solutions, Dan Barnard, and upon the arrival of their first child later that year, Natalie’s two bedroom palace of fun was transformed in to a responsible family home.
“I am very lucky that this apartment is so convenient, so versatile. In what feels like overnight, my place has become child friendly and there has been no need to remodel or convert the flat further. The open plan living room is now great for the kids to crawl around in and I can watch them when I am in the kitchen. And the spacious second bedroom is no longer a guest room for our friends to use after a big night. It is the perfect nursery for my two children.”
Becky Munday, Head of Sales, Wooster & Stock, comments: “In the current economic climate, the majority of buyers are thinking long term and South East London offers so many opportunities to buyers looking for a home that will stand the test of time. The modern, spacious period conversions of the area are perfect, as the open plan features and convenient design make these properties suitable for young professionals, families and older couples alike.
“The area itself is also a huge draw card,” adds Becky. “South East London is an amazing place – no matter what stage of life you might be in. There are trendy bars, restaurants and cafes, sophisticated boutiques, well regarded schools and hundreds of beautiful green parks with every conceivable facility available – from sports fields to playgrounds, to water features and luscious lawns.”
Natalie agrees: “It was fabulous when I first arrived, as the flat is a short walk from Lordship Lane, Bellenden Rd and Dulwich. Getting to Camberwell, South Bank and central London is also easy, as there are frequent train and bus services available. But the beautiful parks stand out now that I have a family. Peckham Rye Park is just glorious, particularly when the summer sun is out. There is a planted area, rose garden and even a pond and water garden to enjoy and the children love it.”
Natalie’s stunning conversion is now on the market with leading online estate agent Wooster & Stock for £269,950. The two-bedroom, first-floor flat features fabulous stripped floorboards, sash windows, school house-style radiators and two lovely original fireplaces. The open plan lounge also exhibits chic, original 1970s flock wallpaper.
For further information, visit woosterstock.co.uk.
