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Relocating from Cheyne Court

Posted in Insights, Interior design

The new year is upon us, and with it comes exciting times ahead for my husband and me. After seven wonderful years, we are looking to move away from our Cheyne Court Chelsea apartment, and relocate to a larger property, with space for our grandchildren. Marketed by our good friends at Strutt and Parker and John D. Wood, the property has undergone a transformation since we moved in 2008, and we have many happy memories. We will be sad to leave, but it will be worth it for the extra family space! Below, I talk about my journey at Cheyne Court, and my hopes for the future…

april russell the art of interiors chelsea

When my husband and I were first married, fifteen years ago, we lived in a lovely four-bed property in Holland Park. We bought that home because it had plenty of room for our six children, and it was also big enough for entertaining friends – perfect for our needs! Holland Park was a penthouse apartment with an enormous amount of light, and great views from the rear.

We moved to Cheyne Court in 2008, because we wanted to downsize. Our children were buying their own properties, and we didn’t need such a big place. They are now having children of their own, and we are looking for a bigger home once more so that the grandchildren can stay with us – it really has come full circle!

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We chose to live in Chelsea because both my husband and I had lived here previously, and we were very happy here. We have always loved the area, and I particularly enjoy being by the river.

april russell the art of interiors chelsea 1

Location wise, we couldn’t ask for more. It’s quiet enough to hear the seagulls, which I love, and we are near everything we need. The building is very well run, which is key, and the apartment itself is beautiful. Chelsea truly is a magical area, with the Chelsea Physic Garden, Royal Hospital and Burton Court within five minutes’ walk from our flat, and Sloane Square a short walk up the road.

One of my favourite things about the area is the abundance of green space. I love being able to take my pugs, Delores and Tallulah, for a walk in stunning surroundings. I have a whole host of places I love to visit that are a short walk from my home, some examples being Lucio Restaurant, Charles Saunders and Lomax gym on Fulham Road, and the Chelsea Farmers Market on Sydney Street.

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Upon moving into Cheyne Court, we completely gutted it, turning a three bed into a two bed. The only remaining pieces were the cornice in the drawing room and a pair of  beautiful fire surrounds – we really made it our own in a way that made it truly feel like a home.

We took the original master bedroom quarters and turned the space into a kitchen dining area, which is at the rear of the building, with views through to Tite Street. It has masses of light and it is a great room to cook and entertain in.

We took another bedroom and turned it into a large bathroom, and turned a smaller bathroom into a dressing room.  Practical work such as all new double glazed sash windows and French doors were installed, and we raised door heights. All of the existing doors were replaced with beautiful dark timber doors, with nickel handles from Charles Edwards.  I love ironmongery and I love beautiful design – handles are jewellery for doors as far as I am concerned!

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In terms of who our home would be suitable for, the flat is perfect for entertaining so it would be perfect for anyone with a penchant for hosting! The drawing room is large, as is the kitchen/dining area, with plenty of room for guests. The property would also suit a couple similar to my husband and me, looking to downsize and spoil themselves.

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We are now full steam ahead planning for the future and, ideally, would like to stay in Chelsea. We have a number of business suppliers here that we know and love and I know of many beautiful places to walk to and spend time in. Our parish church, Christ Church, is at the rear of Cheyne Court. We would like to stay nearby, but simply move somewhere larger. We have four grandchildren, and more on the way – can you believe it!

Cheyne Court can be viewed here.

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April Russell Insights

I want to share with you some of the most inspiring finds from the world of interior design, art, architecture and lifestyle.