As an interiors editor, writing about celebrity homes is part of my everyday, but every now and then, I find myself struck by the sheer uniqueness of a property. Such is the case with Sting's former home, which is one of the most unusual estates I've seen so far this year.
At a glance, you'd be forgiven for assuming the musician's former home, complete with an ivy-covered façade, is perfectly positioned in the English countryside. In reality, however, it's hidden in one of London's most coveted zip codes, Hampstead, where it's said to be among the oldest surviving houses in the area.
Named Frognal, this Grade II Georgian property had a vibrant history, beginning as a public house before serving as the home of prima ballerina Tamara Karsavina, who is commemorated with a blue plaque outside the property.
The Police singer, who had been living in Bayswater, purchased the property in June 1980 after his band soared to fame with hits including Message in a Bottle and Roxanne. He lived there with his first wife, Frances Tomelty, until 1982, when he put the house on the market.
Now, it's listed once again, for approximately $16.25 million (£11.95 million).
'Frognal is one of Hampstead's most treasured addresses and homes here are exceptionally sought-after, making this a very special property to bring to market,' comments Neir Gigi, the head of sales in Savills Hampstead, who holds the listing.
'This remarkable home is said to be among the oldest surviving houses in the area and is certainly one of the finest examples of Georgian architecture I’ve encountered in my career. The sale presents a rare opportunity to acquire a residence that has been thoughtfully brought into the 21st century, with meticulous attention paid to preserving its historic integrity and character,' Neir says.
'With its 4,300 sq. ft of accommodation and large landscaped garden, it would make a wonderful family home for an incoming buyer as it has been to the current owners for the past 35 years. One of the stand-out features is its magnificent roof terrace, which provides the most breathtaking views across the London skyline.'
The country-style exterior foreshadows the traditional interiors, seen through its collection of antiques, layered textures, and understated neutral palette that feels quietly quintessential.
The living room, as shown below, is an example of how the house has retained many period features, including fireplaces and working shutters in many of the rooms.
Similar design lessons are evident in a wooden kitchen, complete with a chef's island and direct access to the landscaped rear garden, which is reportedly unusually wide for Hampstead.
The dining room further exemplifies the power of decorating with neutrals: complete with dining chairs featuring a curved silhouette that are perfectly arranged for conversation.
Shop the look
Inspired by contemporary drawings and balustrades, the Desenhos candelabra by French designer Sam Baron is handcrafted from cast metal with an elegant black finish. Its dramatic proportions provide a beautiful contrast to the three slender taper candles.
This stunning chair is upholstered in a light, neutral fabric and features a low back and flared arms, making it a perfect shape for small living rooms or dining areas, as seen in this home.
Inspired by Murano glass, this glass vase is blown by hand for an ombre effect that transitions from clear to earthy brown. I love how each one is unique due to its natural variations for added character.
Beyond its storied walls lies a cottage garden, exquisitely planted, offering rare serenity and privacy. There's also a roof terrace that crowns the house, showcasing the aforementioned views across the city's skyline.
Both Sting and Tamara Karsavina have left their legacy on Frognal's walls, but now, it's ready for a new chapter.
