There are so many things that are great about this house that it's hard to know where to begin… Is it that there is an untouched quality, with its original Victorian cornices, fireplaces and tiles that is so attractive, or the feeling that here you could raise a family, run a business, and still find room to curl up with a book in peace? An extension was added many years ago at the back of the house, which gives you an extra two bedrooms and a study, as well as an enormous kitchen/dining-room in the basement, with a glazed roof, through which floods the morning sun. The current owners have created a teenage proof deck on the roof, which is a perfect suntrap, and outside in the back garden is the most delightful little clapboard office, which would make going to work a pleasure. Another particular pleasure is the use of Shikkui, a Japanese polished plaster, in the main bathroom instead of tiles, which is wildly eco-friendly, and weirdly beautiful. Portland Road runs north to south, perpendicular to Holland Park Avenue, and this house is at the northern end, part of the original boundary of the Ladbroke estate. Today it is an oasis set back from the bustle of Holland Park and Notting Hill, with popular restaurants and shops a short walk away. Transport options are excellent with Holland Park Tube station (Central Line) at the top of the road and Notting Hill (Central, District and Circle lines) only a brisk walk up the hill.