Runda, a modernist vacation rental in Gospel Oak, London

A Modernist Architectural Home Minutes from Hampstead Heath

Rising like a sculpture on a leafy corner in Gospel Oak, Runda is a rare contemporary addition to a neighborhood defined by the Camden School of architecture. Designed by the creative studio Flawk, the home is a play of curves and light, anchored by a striking constellation of circular windows and a central spiral staircase with a steel-and-oak balustrade.

Runda takes its name from the Old Norse word for "round," a nod to its idiosyncratic, curved silhouette. Flawk’s design pays homage to the neighboring 1970s ziggurats of Peter Tabori and Benson & Forsyth. The facade, a two-tone creamy brickwork, conceals a high-performance timber frame and light-filled, open-plan volumes.

The interiors are defined by a restrained palette of crisp white walls, rich oak floorboards, and brushed-steel work surfaces. Bespoke joinery hides modern necessities, while the "clock" of the day is marked by shadows dancing through round windows. The kitchen is a functionalist’s dream with Smeg, Miele, and Bosch appliances integrated into minimalist wooden cabinetry, warmed by underfloor heating.

The crown of the home is a private, decked rooftop terrace extending from the principal bedroom. Framed by the canopy of a central Hawthorn tree in the gated front garden, this elevated sanctuary offers panoramic views across the rooftops toward Parliament Hill.

What we love

We love how the house uses bespoke wood design to ground all that sculptural, curved architecture. One of the standout features is the staircase, which feels more like a piece of functional art with the sculptural balustrade and the screek steel handrail. As you climb, large circular windows are positioned perfectly to frame the neighborhood greenery, turning the act of walking upstairs into a series of "nature snapshots."

Layout

This vacation home for rent in Gospel Oak sleeps up to six guests. The 1,381-square-foot plan unfolds over three stories. The ground floor features an open-plan reception, dining area, and kitchen. The first floor has two double bedrooms and a shared bathroom. The top floor is reserved for the principal suite, which boasts a walk-in wardrobe, Tadelakt shower, and terrace access.

Good to know

The staircase may not suit those with limited mobility. Street parking is limited.

Amenities & services

Rooftop terrace, underfloor heating, bespoke oak joinery, Tadelakt bathrooms, Smeg oven, Miele dishwasher, Bosch fridge-freezer, high-speed wifi, organic linens, washer/dryer, library, managed check-in

Around

Gospel Oak is located at the southern tip of Hampstead Heath. To the east, the "White Flats" of Highgate New Town stand as monuments to 1960s social idealism. To the north, the Heath offers London’s most wild and wonderful walks.. Picnic on Parliament Hill or brave the winter chill at the Hampstead Heath bathing ponds, both a 10-minute walk away. Spend Saturdays at the local farmers' market, followed by a pint and a legendary pork sandwich at The Southampton Arms. The Overground and nearby Northern Line (Belsize Park) connect you to central London in under 20 minutes.