It’s hard to beat London in the summer. With its landscaped parks, beautiful lidos and al fresco dining spaces, the city truly comes to life the weather warms up. With a cocktail in hand you can almost kid yourself you’re on holiday, but, let’s be honest, it’s hard to recreate the vibe of a Mediterranean retreat when you’re sitting in a home that is decidedly British in design.

It’s a problem that the current owners of this Chelsea townhouse have tackled with aplomb. Currently on the market with Knight Frank for £2.3m, Villa Blanca is arranged around a romantic, Italian-style courtyard that, when the weather is playing ball, is an exquisite sun trap.

When you’re not soaking up the rays on the mosaic terrace, you can spend time upstairs in the large drawing room, which has high ceilings and overlooks the courtyard. The unusual metallic panelled walls complement the white marble stone of the 19th-century Louis XV-style fireplace and Regency fire basket. In the Bulthaup-designed kitchen, statuario marble countertops, a balcony and a generous dining area create an elegant space for entertaining.

Downstairs, the principal bedroom suite is served by a steam spa and bespoke walnut wardrobes, while a second double bedroom features a separate shower and utility room. All of the bathrooms are fully tiled in Bianca Carrera marble, and each of the main bedrooms is equipped with a built-in Sonos sound system. Across the courtyard, a guest bedroom and ensuite bathroom provide a charming private space for visitors.

Tucked behind a gated entrance off Redcliffe Square in the highly-regarded Boltons Conservation Area, this property offers complete privacy and seclusion in the heart of central London. Glorious sunshine subject to availability.

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