The Luxe

Much like the surrounding neighbourhood of Hackney, this home is cool without having to try that hard. In the main living space, every piece looks to have been carefully selected for maximum impact, from the statement light fitting and the metallic Warren Platner dining chairs to the lacquered sideboard. The bedrooms keep it simple with walls painted in neutrals and pastels, plus characterful rugs.

The home has a secret weapon and that's the back garden accessed through bi-fold doors. Out here, you'll find a set of swings for youngsters, as well as a barbecue and an alfresco table for long summer evening suppers.

If it inspires you to see more of the UK capital's green spaces, you're in an excellent position to do so. Less than five minutes' walk from your front door is London Fields, where you can go for a swim in the heated lido, play tennis or simply read on the grass. In the other direction, Dalston takes a quarter of an hour to reach and has plenty of bars, restaurants and live music venues to keep you occupied once you're there.

Home truths:
*There's no wardrobe in the master bedroom, but your host will provide a freestanding one for your stay
*The home has no parking space, but London Fields overground station is only five minutes' walk away
*The host has an extra child's mattress that can go in either of the bedrooms if needs be
*The home's bedrooms are found on the first and second floors, so it might not be suitable for guests with reduced mobility