Another month has gone by, and again, what a month it has been for taking on new locations. Towards the back end of last year, we started taking on incredible new locations like never before. 2021 certainly hasn’t slowed down. As we approach the end of March, it is fair to say it has been another stellar month. We have been lucky enough to take on a whole host of impressive locations, ranging from exquisite residential properties, to quirky bars and charming family homes, to a garden you’ll never forget. If you would like to view all of our new locations, they can be found here, but without further ado, let’s get into our top five for March!
Astral
Where to start with Astral? Well, all I can say is we are running out of adjectives to describe this location, here at 1st Option. This outstanding property, located in North Yorkshire, is a real standout, and by the time you read this, I’m sure our phones will be ringing off the hook. This large location is mainly open plan and features an opulent, residential industrial aesthetic, that is reached through the use of steel framing, concrete flooring, exposed brick and a sublime dark colour palette. As stated above, Astral screams premium from its steel rafters, and as such, there are tons of standout features found throughout the house. Firstly, the vast, open plan kitchen/ dining space, that looks out to the grand set of sliding doors, offers dazzling views of the surrounding area that can’t be matched. Moreover, if you dive further into the property, you’ll find the gorgeous deep oak floorboards in the living area. These are complemented by an array of quirky artwork, which really add character to the space. Finally, if dark interiors are the light of your life, you’ll fall in love with the superb design achieved within the bedrooms and bathrooms. Deep navy, blacks and coppers are found throughout, and they effortlessly bring the industrial tone of the space to life.
Saxe
For a residential shoot location completely contrasting to the last example, Saxe is going to be bang on the money. This detached family home, located in Greater London, is particularly impressive thanks to its three floors, six bedrooms and four bathrooms, however, that is merely where the property begins to excite. The location was built in 1925, so expect to see some elegant period features within its interior, including some intricate cornicing, original wooden floorboards, and some gorgeous bay windows. But the property really captures attention when you venture outside! Saxe comes to life through its glorious southwest facing garden, with luscious greens as far as the eye can see. The striking patio area, that is fitted with a pizza oven, and one of the most spectacular heated swimming pools you’re likely to see today. If a residential summer shoot is what you require, then Saxe is definitely going to be the choice for you!
Topiary
Topiary is a perfect example of how diverse our properties can be. Whilst similar to Saxe in its garden appeal, the essence of Topiary could not be more different. Think: secret garden! The huge, Kent based property features one of the most alluring gardens you’ll see this year! The standout elements to this inspiring garden include a whole host of gorgeous shrubbery, a living arched walkway, and a giant chess set, amidst the landscaped garden. Furthermore, a large cedar greenhouse can be found on the grounds, alongside a koi carp pond, nestled between delightful trees, and a Victorian glasshouse – filled with ornamentation and beautiful plants. If you are looking for a truly remarkable outdoor shoot, you’ll be hard-pressed to find something more interesting than Topiary.
Doña
From The Secret Garden to an eccentric boudoir, check out the red and pink den of dreams that is Doña. Designed in the mould of a 1920’s Harlem Jazz Club, combined with your favourite Mexican bodega, Doña perfectly blends a mixture of Kitsch and Lynchian Surrealism. Its quirkiness is epitomised by a mural found within, painted by artist Maddie Yuille, and installation from Lucia Massey. The space itself consists of a music room, which generally features a staging area and contains fitted velvet seating. A brass bar, centrally positioned, is the focus of the second room. We could go on talking about Doña all day but we’ll let the pictures speak for themselves!
Vert
Our final location this month is a sumptuous 1930’s family home, brimming with character. The North East London shoot location may not be as large as some other properties on this list, but what it lacks in size, it certainly makes up for in personality and charm. The open plan kitchen/ dining room is delightfully styled in a minimalistic, rustic aesthetic. It features a blend of wood, with a white colour palette, perfectly accentuated by the hits of turquoise, and plant feature wall. Moreover, skylights and crittal doors at the rear, bring an abundance of natural light, which gives the space a real premium feel. Tiled flooring and wallpapered walls are notable inclusions in Vert, and are bang on trend. Take a look at the unique woodland wall in the children’s bedroom and lemon trees in the upstairs bathroom. One of the best elements in the house is the patterned, tiled hallway, as you enter the property. This may well be a client favourite for years to come!
