The Brief
Northacre PLC commissioned the creation of a bespoke coffee table book to celebrate three of their most iconic and architecturally significant developments: Earl’s Terrace in South Kensington, The Brompton Hospital in Chelsea, and Observatory Gardens in Kensington. These projects exemplified Northacre’s unique approach to heritage-led development; restoring historic London landmarks and transforming them into exquisite, modern residences while preserving their original character.
The purpose of the book was to serve as both a luxury marketing piece and a lasting visual record of Northacre’s finest work. It was intended for a discerning audience of investors, buyers and industry peers, and needed to communicate a sense of timeless quality, architectural sensitivity, and refinement.
At the heart of the brief was the photography. It was essential that the imagery not only documented the spaces, but also brought them to life; conveying scale, atmosphere and craftsmanship. The design of the book needed to be humble yet confident – a sleek, understated canvas that allowed the photography to be the hero, while subtly echoing the quiet luxury that Northacre is known for.
Every detail, from typography and layout to material choice and production values, was to reflect the quality and ambition of the properties themselves.
Design Approach
To reflect the quiet confidence and luxury of the Northacre brand, the design focused on elegant simplicity and restraint. Generous use of negative space gave the photography room to breathe, while alternating black and white backgrounds created contrast and drama; allowing each image to stand out with clarity and impact.
Every design decision was made with refinement in mind. The book was produced by one of the world’s finest printers in Milan, ensuring impeccable quality. Materials and finishes were carefully chosen to enhance the tactile experience: a matt-laminated hardback cover, fine foil-blocked logos and gloss-laminated imagery gave the piece weight and presence. This understated yet luxurious presentation allowed the architecture to take centre stage, while subtly reinforcing Northacre’s reputation for meticulous attention to detail and timeless sophistication.
The result was a refined, contemporary coffee table book; image-led and beautifully crafted – that celebrates the very best of London architecture and interior design through the lens of Northacre’s most iconic restorations.
