Inspiration beckons at white-stuccoed 21, Old Church Street, which, as its Blue Plaque attests, was once home to the actress Judy Campbell, famously muse to Noël Coward, mother of Jane Birkin and grandmother of Charlotte Gainsbourg.
Furthermore, this much-restored townhouse, once a pub, dates back to the 18th century, making it reputedly the oldest property on the oldest street in Chelsea (it was mentioned, as Church Lane, in 1566).
With five bedrooms, it has been boldly updated, with dark-oak floors, a glazed atrium, sumptuous cinema room and Carrera-marble kitchen island designed by Day True London with integrated Gaggenau appliances.
The well-sized west-facing stepped garden has a raised, lawned courtyard with a water feature and outdoor dining area, overlooked by a balcony.
21 Old Church Street is currently on the market via Russell Simpson for £8.95 million — see more pictures, or enquire with the agent for further details.
Old Chelsea: What you need to know
Location: The property is just set back from the Chelsea Embankment in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. The nearest underground stations are South Kensington Underground (District, Piccadilly and Circle lines), Imperial Wharf overground services and Gloucester Road Underground (District, Piccadilly and Circle Lines).
Atmosphere: The popular and affluent neighbourhood has been home — and indeed still is home to a wide number of poets, painters and artists. The area is now known for its world-class shopping, and takes centre stage as the capitals most stylish shopping district.
Things to do: Art lovers can head to the Saatchi gallery and Gagliardi Gallery amongst others, whilst shoppers will enjoy the King's Road and Harrods. Theatre and music lovers head to Cadogan Hall (home of the Philharmonic Orchestra) and The Royal Theatre. There are also countless restaurants, bars, clubs, pubs plus a weekly food market in the Duke of York Square. Battersea Park can also be reached to the south of Chelsea Embankment.
Schools: Park Walk Primary School is rated 'good' by Ofsted, whilst Kingland Pre-Prep, The Hampshire School Chelsea and Cameron Vale School are all located within walking distance.
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