I am a local resident and owner of Carnegie Estate Agents, managing the recently set up a Dulwich office linked to my family business in Hertfordshire. After many years of working in the international property industry I am keen to ensure people get great value and have a positive experience.
How long have you lived in the area?
I have lived in London for the past 25 years, formally as a ‘north of the river’ resident. Love wrenched me out of my comfort zone down to South East London, specifically West Dulwich, 17 years ago. It was not as bad as I’d feared…!
What brought you here?
We needed a bigger house and found the perfect renovation project here on Clive Road. We spent a year doing it up with a 4-year old and new baby in tow, spending a large amount of time living between parents’ and friends’ houses. The fabulous schools, sense of community and access to parks and the wood were big attractions.
What has changed most during that time?
West Dulwich, in particular, has become busier and even more desirable as a place to live. There are now more shops, better performing local schools and numerous places to eat. The increasing number of local boutique shops is another great attraction.
What do you most value about the area/street you live in?
There is a fantastic community spirit which has emerged during the pandemic. From the outset, a street WhatsApp group was created with over 100 people to support each other. Covid continues to be a serious concern, but it has made many people look at how they live and interact with others, which is not always typical of London neighborhoods. This has reinforced my positive feelings about the area and in particular our street.
What one thing would you change?
The traffic has worsened over the past 15 years, the current road closures in place and further restrictions have not helped. It takes longer than ever to travel between East and West Dulwich, which is frustrating for an estate agent travelling to viewings and appraisals.
Do you belong to any groups?
I have been a rugby coach at Old Alleynians Rugby club for the past 12 years. I currently coach the U15 Girls and help coach the U11 Boys. It’s a fantastic family club for all, and my whole family play or help out there – my wife may even make you a latte if you pop down on a Sunday morning!
What’s your favourite place for a night out?
I’m a big fan of the local brewery taprooms of which there are plenty in this area, most notably the Brixton Brewery taproom, the Gypsy Hill Taproom, Canopy and The Bullfinch. I’m always happy to support local businesses, especially craft beer breweries!
Where are you likely to be found on Saturday?
Working! I own an Estate Agency so work on Saturday mornings. In the afternoon I enjoy dog walks with the family or catching up with friends and going out (in a post-Covid world) ….
What is your favourite place to eat?
We had a fantastic meal out at the Dulwich Lyceum recently, delicious and reasonable. I also love Thai Crystal and the scotch eggs in the Rosendale pub are definitely worth a mention!
Where’s your favourite place to walk?
I thoroughly enjoy the peace of Dulwich woods, one of the closest areas of true woodland to central London.
This article first appeared in the December issue of SE21 Magazine.