OUT OF TOWNERS

A love affair with London prompted Americans Julia and David to snap up an aunt's mews house when she decided to sell

- Sharon Smith

When David Fleischner's aunt decided to sell her mews house in west London, he and his wife Julia didn't hesitate to buy it. 'David's uncle had died and his aunt was looking to move. She said to us, "I know you both love London, so would you be interested?" says Julia.

The couple had stayed at the house when visiting the UK and immediately said yes. A friend wondered why we would want to take it on,' says Julia. 'But it's a house we love and enjoy spending time in. Hotels are lovely, but this feels like home. I'd always thought it had great bones.' 

Its location is perfect for the couple and their daughters Margaret, 21, and Caroline, 18, to enjoy the city as well as use it as abase from which to explore Europe. My love affair with London began when I came here to study. I love the accessibility to all the art galleries and the museums,' says Julia. David also spent time as a student in London, although the couple met back in the US.