They say a picture speaks a thousand words – and in this case, the expression couldn’t be truer. This stunning home, owned by famed British photographer Rankin, has borne witness to countless high-profile parties, exhibitions – and day-to-day celebrity life. Set in buzzy Kentish Town, the penthouse has been designed in collaboration with, and curated by, the world-renowned photographer, film director and publisher – and now it’s yours for the taking.

Speaking exclusively to Luxury London, Rankin explains what first attracted him to the property. “I had always wanted to live above the studio, it was a dream of mine from when I first became professional. Plus, the space is kind of like a gallery, as I love putting art on the walls, so we designed it that way. Then I got the idea of white floors from Franca Sozzani, whose Paris flat had lovely white floorboards.”

Positioned above the Kentish Town studios of Rankin Creative, the aesthetic boasts minimalist interiors with an industrial edge. The bright, airy open plan spaces, and large, south-west facing terrace, which lets in streams of sunlight, make entertaining a breeze – while being perfect for showcasing an art or photography collection. “I designed it with my architect, and it is entirely bespoke,” Rankin continues. “But the main thing is, it really is a party flat. You want people to come and enjoy it, stay with you, and have fun. It’s great for dancing and, because it’s above everything else, you can play the music loud, especially at the weekend!

“So many people have been over to party. Most recently Kit Connor, Anna Friel, Nathalie Emmanuel, and James Norton. Also, my wife had her 40th birthday party here and it was incredible.”

Complete with a gloriously spacious principal bedroom with a modern, sleek en suite bathroom and walk-in wardrobe, the two further bedrooms and shower room are also impressive. The semi-open plan, fully fitted kitchen with pantry, combined with a reception room that incorporates a sophisticated dining area, makes casual entertaining easy and relaxed. And, if you just feel the need to retreat from it all, then the snug will do just the trick.

“My personal favourite room in the house has to be the main space,” says the photographer. “I really wanted the high ceilings, and it doubles as a great dance floor. Plus, I also love the front terrace, as we designed it to be an extension of the whole room.” Add to that a second private roof terrace, direct lift access, air conditioning, underfloor heating, and of course, an integrated sound system, and you really are good to go.

Set in the heart of north London, Rankin won’t be moving too far afield, as he loves the local area. “You’re an eight-minute walk from Hampstead Heath and nine minutes from Camden. So, it’s in the middle of everything you need, but it’s a little bit less known, so you don’t walk out into lots of tourists.”

And, while he himself is only moving up the road to be closer to the Heath for his four dogs, the new owner will still be able to catch a glimpse of the photographer and his famous sitters, as he continues to work below.

“I will miss everything about that house though, I loved it so much. The parties are one thing, but the space itself is amazing because you really experience the seasons. It’s so gorgeous in the summer, but it’s bright and beautiful in the winter. Fireworks night is always amazing there. Plus, I’m not moving completely, as my studio is still downstairs.”

So, if you’re tempted, and feeling neighbourly, just shout – you could be hosting Rankin’s most talked about house party yet…

The Grafton Road property is listed for £2.3 million, visit simondeen.com

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