California Dreaming Locations in the British Countryside

Sun-drenched terraces, palm silhouettes and glass-fronted living spaces are no longer exclusive to Los Angeles. Across the South East and London, several architect-designed homes bring West Coast energy to British soil, offering production teams the atmosphere of California without leaving the UK.

For summer lookbooks, beauty campaigns, and relaxed lifestyle editorials, these properties offer strong architectural lines, expansive glazing, and outdoor entertaining zones that feel closer to Malibu than the Home Counties.

Below is a curated edit of SHOOTFACTORY locations that channel that laid-back, sun-focused aesthetic.

 

Bel Air

Location: Surrey, GU8

Bel Air Surrey Hills sets the tone with its modern California architecture, set within 14 acres of private land. Floor-to-ceiling glass wraps the property, allowing natural light to pour into open-plan interiors and framing views across landscaped grounds.

Outside, a large pond and contemporary fire pit create a strong visual focal point for summer campaigns. The generous terrace spaces lend themselves to poolside styling, alfresco dining scenes and sunset-driven fashion shoots.

Inside, the design blends mid-century references with bold decorative choices. A snug television area flows into the dining room and formal drawing room with a bar, offering multiple backdrops within one cohesive setting. The atmosphere is relaxed yet polished, ideal for aspirational lifestyle narratives.

BEL AIR
SURREY, GU8

 

Bamboo

Location: London, SE26

Tucked away on a quiet residential street, Bamboo London delivers a tropical garden that could easily pass for California, Jamaica or Thailand. Mature exotic planting, waterfalls, streams and layered decking create a rich outdoor environment that feels far removed from urban London.

The bright white open-plan kitchen-living space features double-aspect sliding doors and skylights, creating clean, sun-filled interiors that work beautifully for beauty, wellness, and fashion content. The separate cinema room that opens directly onto the garden provides additional versatility for lifestyle set-ups.

For brands seeking palm-fringed backdrops without travelling overseas, this location offers both atmosphere and convenient access in the capital.

BAMBOO LONDON, SE26 - SHOOTFACTORY - QUIRKY & UNUSUAL LOCATIONS -0

Bamboo
London, SE26

 

Shards

Location: West Sussex, RH17

Set within substantial private grounds in West Sussex, Shards pairs contemporary architecture with a sense of scale and privacy. The top-floor entrance opens into an expansive open-plan living room and kitchen, creating an immediate impact in wide-angle photography and film.

A large spa area with sauna and a swimming pool within the grounds reinforces the West Coast narrative. The long drive, electric gates and parking for at least 20 cars make it highly workable for larger productions.

With its clean lines and generous proportions, Shards is particularly suited to fashion editorials, athleisure campaigns and high-end lifestyle brands wanting a sense of space and exclusivity.

SHARDS
WEST SUSSEX, RH17

 

Oakwood

Location: Kent, BR7

Oakwood Kent is defined by dramatic glazing and architectural structure. A three-storey window forms a striking focal point as you enter the main living area, immediately creating the sort of statement backdrop associated with contemporary Californian homes.

Terraced floors connected by a glass balustrade staircase add depth and visual interest. The master suite with a private terrace offers opportunities for rooftop-style shoots, while the garden decking and a mature magnolia tree soften the modern exterior.

Located within a private gated road, the property offers both privacy and scale. It works well for premium fashion brands, interior brands, and campaigns that require bold architectural framing.

OAKWOOD, KENT BR7 - SHOOTFACTORY - LONDON HOUSES

OAKWOOD
KENT, BR7

 

West Coast Aesthetic, British Access

These properties share key elements that define a California-inspired shoot location. Expanses of glass, open-plan living, pools, fire pits, and layered outdoor zones create a relaxed yet aspirational mood. At the same time, practical considerations such as parking, gated access and proximity to London keep production streamlined.

For summer campaigns that call for palm shadows, bright interiors and sunset terraces, SHOOTFACTORY can source locations that deliver that West Coast look within the UK.

Speak to the SHOOTFACTORY team to discuss your brief and secure a property that brings California style to your next shoot.

 

Related Articles

 

Prefer an AI Summary?