Stylistically miles apart from its Victorian neighbours, the Vaulted House adds a contemporary footnote to Peploe Road, as imagined by vPPR Architects. Low-slung and unassuming from the outside, high clerestory windows punctuate the discreet exterior, adding an architectural flourish and a feeling of privacy. Inside, minimalist living spaces feel both sheltered and in sync with the surroundings. An open-plan reception room sweeps across the ground floor, where a sequence of living areas surround a central glazed void that channels soft, north-facing light down to the bedrooms below. The elongated footprint and undulating vaulted ceiling bring a sense of ease to the everyday. White walls and black framed windows highlight the symmetry, with a kitchen and snug bookending either ends of the room and a main seating area stretched out between. The contemporary kitchen is a lesson in precision and polish. Striking mottled grey cabinetry and surfaces provide a unifying effect. Integrated appliances add the finishing touch, with a Siemens compact oven, sous vide and warming drawer. For an al fresco ambiance, slide open the doors to Juliet balconies that seamlessly dissolve boundaries between inside and out. The sense of volume is best appreciated on the lower ground floor, where a double height void draws down light from above. Colour schemes and finishes are pared back, allowing simplicity to underscore all four bedrooms – each of which come with access to outside space. The principal suite enjoys its own private terrace ensuring complete privacy, while an en suite shower room elevates the feeling of sanctuary further. Three additional bedrooms follow the same format, and open to a central courtyard. All are served by a family bathroom with a bathtub. A stone’s throw from Kensal Rise Overground, Peploe Road is both well-connected and a welcome reprieve from city life. A neighbourhood that takes pride in its independent businesses, many are right on your front doorstep here – from Wildcard Coffee to Rise & Vine and The Salusbury Wine Store. The heart of Queen’s Park is just a short stroll away, offering more of the same in terms of charm, coveted restaurants and its eponymous green space, complete with tennis courts and a weekly farmers’ market. Evenings here are best spent at local cinema The Lexi followed by dinner at Ida. Kensal Rise – 6 mins (Mildmay) Queen’s Park – 10 mins (Lioness, Bakerloo)