Step inside a sleek modernist house in Kent

Property A Grade II-listed modernist house in Chislehurst, Kent.
The space 3 bedrooms, open-plan kitchen-diner, spacious living room, TV room and 2 bathrooms.

Inspired by the modernist houses of the Hollywood Hills, the owners transformed a suburban property in Kent into a rebellious, 1960s-inspired, Californian retreat. While the modernist building may not look that remarkable from the outside, inside the blend of modern lines and Canadian pine beams give it an edgy, stylish vibe.

Step inside a sleek modernist house in Kent 

The living room is a tranquil open-plan space, personalised with the owners' bird and ranch motifs.

Step inside a sleek modernist house in Kent 

Floor-to-ceiling glass panels and French doors leading out onto the terrace give the living room a spacious feel, making it the perfect place to work and socialise. Mid-century furniture, pop art, period paintings and iconic lamps create an individual vibe in the dining area.

Step inside a sleek modernist house in Kent 

To offset the utilitarian feel of the kitchen, the owners have continued the ranch theme with buffalo horns. The space is designed for efficiency, with the sink, hob, oven and fridge all at arm’s length.

Step inside a sleek modernist house in Kent 

The TV den is another successful combination of eras. A contemporary Italian sofa is teamed with a design classic lounge chair and original 1950s lacquered coffee table.

The 1957 Scandia lounge chair came from 20th Century Marks.

Step inside a sleek modernist house in Kent 

The wine room also plays host to the owners' music memorabilia signed pictures of Frank Sinatra and Louis Armstrong, and a beloved guitar.

Step inside a sleek modernist house in Kent 

1930s-designed lamps, a period painting and sumptuous bedding softens the utilitarian brick and wood bedroom.

Step inside a sleek modernist house in Kent 

The bathroom is minimal and compact. The black tiles and low-key lighting add glamour, while the glass shower panel gives the impression of space. The sink is a whopping 1.2m wide, so that no-one's fighting for the mirror in the morning.

Step inside a sleek modernist house in Kent 

The flooring in the hallway is reconstituted stone from Stonell. The walls are painted in Farrow & Ball’s Great White matt emulsion.

Looking for more modern decorating inspiration? Check out our House Tours section for everything from a converted church to an uber modernist house in South Africa.