5 /5 Lonnie Perry: The Thin House is one of London’s most delightful architectural curiosities. Nestled in Thurloe Square, this slender marvel measures just six feet wide at its narrowest point—narrower than a Tube train! But don’t let its size fool you; it’s a masterclass in 19th-century ingenuity.
Built between 1885 and 1887 by local builder William Douglas, the structure arose from a leftover triangular plot after the construction of South Kensington Station. Rather than waste the space, Douglas designed seven artist studios, creating a wedge-shaped building that’s both functional and visually striking.
Originally a haven for creatives during Kensington’s artistic boom, the Thin House now serves as residential flats, cleverly maximizing every inch of space. Its optical illusion-like silhouette continues to fascinate passersby, making it a favorite among photographers and architecture buffs alike.
Whether you’re admiring it from the southwest corner or simply marveling at how something so narrow can be so captivating, the Thin House is a quiet triumph of design and history.


