In a remarkable architectural feat, London’s David Kohn Architects have introduced Smart’s Place, a two-story luxury home perched atop a 19th-century Covent Garden warehouse, redefining rooftop living with distinctive design and urban elegance.
- Unique two-story rooftop home with textured brick façade
- Open-plan living spaces ideal for entertaining
- Private terraces and art-focused interiors
What happened
David Kohn Architects completed Smart’s Place, a luxury two-story home that sits atop a 19th-century warehouse in London’s Covent Garden. Spanning over 3,000 square feet, the residence makes innovative use of its flat rooftop location, creating a freestanding house feeling despite its unique perch. The brick exterior features vertical, narrow bricks stacked tightly for a distinctive textured appearance that contrasts yet complements its historic surroundings.
Inside, the ground floor unfolds as a continuous, doorless sequence of dining, library, and lounge spaces, each facing south with bay windows and access to a terrace showcasing sweeping views of London. The upper floor hosts two bedrooms with private terraces, a study, and bespoke wood paneling and shelving tailored for the owner's art and ceramic collections. Landscape architect Todd Longstaffe-Gowan designed the terraces, enhancing the integration of outdoor living spaces.
Why it feels good
Smart’s Place weaves together historic architectural references with modern functionality, evoking warmth through carefully chosen materials and spatial flow. The enfilade design on the ground floor provides an airy, inviting atmosphere perfect for social gatherings, while the private upper floor spaces offer serenity and connection to nature via their terraces. This balance of openness and intimacy creates a home that comfortably supports both lively entertaining and peaceful retreat.
The emphasis on natural light, with circular skylights illuminating the staircase and generous bay windows, adds to the uplifting ambiance. The thoughtful inclusion of picture rails encourages art display throughout, highlighting the owner's passion and bringing personality to every corner. Overall, the home’s design fosters a sense of belonging, inspiration, and connection to its vibrant urban context.
What to enjoy or watch next
For those inspired by Smart’s Place, keep an eye on David Kohn Architects' upcoming projects which continue to reimagine residential spaces in unexpected settings. Their previous wins and nominations, including the acclaimed Red House and The Cowshed, showcase a consistent talent for revitalizing historic or modest structures with refined, character-filled designs.
Exploring these projects offers a glimpse into a design philosophy centered on creative spatial arrangements and craftsmanship. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or simply appreciate unique homes, following the work of David Kohn Architects promises a stream of thoughtful, beautiful projects that combine practicality with artistry.