In the vibrant neighbourhood of Walthamstow, London, an unusual residential opportunity has emerged: a three-storey property measuring just 6ft wide, currently listed for offers starting at £150,000. Dubbed the UK’s narrowest home, this surprising structure surpasses even a London bus in its slender dimensions, which measures 8ft in width. Such a listing has ignited curiosity and debate, particularly given the stark contrast to the average UK property price, which was approximately £540,000 less in comparison to the capital's real estate market in the last year.
Presently used as a ceramics workshop, the potential for the property to undergo substantial redevelopment into a residential unit, work/live space, or apartments has been advocated by its sellers, Strettons. The property features a peculiar internal layout: a slim staircase leading to an attic with a sloping roof, a kitchen confined to a mere 5ft 6in, and a bathroom that barely exceeds 2ft 3in at its narrowest point. Despite its peculiarities, it includes a small rear garden, which adds another layer to its charm amidst the constraints.
Previously, the house had intrigued many prospective buyers during an open viewing session, an event that highlighted the interest in affordable housing solutions in the London area, particularly as urban living becomes increasingly costly. According to Bryn Nettle of Strettons, the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with dozens of individuals expressing interest in transforming the unique space. He noted, “If you are looking for a property in Walthamstow and have a big deposit, you can convert it into what you want. The sky’s the limit.”
While many see the potential for modernisation and conversion, there are substantial hurdles, notably the absence of current planning permission for residential use. Waltham Forest Council's past experiences with ultra-thin properties underscore the complexities of such conversions. For instance, in 2014, the council mandated the reversion of a similarly narrow property in Leyton back to garage use, raising vital questions around legality and livability.
The property's narrowness also led to widespread online discourse, with some social media commentators likening living there to residing in an alleyway. A TikTok video showcasing the house drew immediate attention with humorous and critical remarks, including comparisons to a "fire exit staircase." However, others see undeniable potential; former tenant Jo Davies described the building as “weirdly spacious” for a workshop and opined that with the right design interventions, it could indeed transform into a comfortable living space. "It might be cold and damp, but with the right work done, it could be a decent house," she noted.
Moreover, the property is strategically located near Walthamstow’s bustling market and the charming Walthamstow Village area, enhancing its appeal despite its unorthodox dimensions. The vicinity is well-connected, boasting excellent transport links through Walthamstow Central and Queens Road stations, crucial for urban dwellers seeking accessibility.
As the discussion around this narrow abode continues, it serves as a talking point not just for potential homeowners but also for urban planners and architects who might envision unique adaptations of such spaces. Even as the property remains available, the growing interest reflects a broader trend in London: the ongoing search for affordable, innovative housing solutions within the capital's urban sprawl.
For now, this quirky slice of Walthamstow stands as both a challenge and an opportunity for those with the imagination and resources to rethink its use and enhance its livability.
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Source: Noah Wire Services