What’s it like to live in Forest Hill?

What’s It Like to Live In Forest Hill: A Creative Perspective from Havelock Walk.

The artistic enclave of Havelock Walk

What is it truly like to call Forest Hill home? We posed this question to Carolyn, a local artist and resident of a distinctive warehouse townhouse tucked away at the end of Havelock Walk, a much-admired and tightly-knit artistic community in South East London. Her unique perspective offers a glimpse into the daily rhythms and creative spirit that defines life within this coveted enclave.

So, what drew you to this part of town Carolyn?

We were looking for a creative space that could also be a home and knew we’d found it as soon as we saw 13b. The vibrant community on the street was also an attraction. We knew that how much we wanted to participate would be up to us but there were opportunities to show work in the twice yearly open studios and make connections with others.

Gallery and studio space with easy access from the street on the ground floor of the house.

Did you have any specific requirements for the home when you first purchased?

Having a space that is flexible and versatile was important to us. With four grown up kids, at times the studio has been a living space, especially during the lockdown. Additionally, having three bedrooms meant that I could comfortably accommodate the family, even when various of them were working from home and taking online meetings in their rooms. 

Warehouse interiors with a slightly Scandi twist

And has the house lived up to expectations?

For the majority of the time the studio has been a working space for photography and painting and many other creative endeavours. At least twice a year, it converts into a white walled gallery space. The location is very well connected into central London with the Overground Windrush line and mainline station just a couple of minutes walk away and this was important for making the most of London life and opportunities. The street being a no-through road gives it a particular character and fosters neighbourliness.

Creative corners with practical storage features

You’re a very busy artist, do you ever get to enjoy the uniqueness of your home and your local area?

I love relaxing in the upstairs sitting room looking across at the rooftops or down the street at the variety of the conversions and the creative activities evidenced along the street. Despite being so close to transport links, the street is like a little oasis, especially our end, where I don’t hear road or train noise. Another special aspect of the location is that everything is to hand very easily, aside from transport links, there’s a post office, supermarket, dry cleaners, deli, great cafes, all within easy walking distance. A recent discovery is Forest Hill Pools just down Dartmouth Road with a 25m swimming pool and gyms with a variety of classes.

Private roof space to enjoy the sunshine

It will be hard to leave, which memories will you take with you as you part?

Favourite memories include the barbeques, street tennis and communal breakfasts we have twice a year when the street is closed to cars for open studios. We’ve celebrated neighbours ‘big’ birthdays and mine! I had an Indian food truck from Leeds and a DJ and we spilled out from the studio into the street. I will always be grateful that 13b accommodated us all so well during the lockdowns. We even had a mini Glyndebourne during that time with a streamed opera, everyone dressing in their finest and a picnic on the roof deck.

Please click here to learn more about Havelock Walk.