New homes in East Dulwich: small housing projects are springing up in this fashionable yet unpretentious south London area

Lethargic gentrification meant it took 10 years or so for East Dulwich to go from shabby to shabby chic, but the transition to hipster hotspot was faster.

Today the south-east London district is awash with chichi boutiques, gastropubs, delis, speciality shops and homeware stores that have replaced bookmakers and fast-food joints.

East Dulwich has settled into a comfortable niche. Growing families can afford a modest Victorian house and plug into a well-oiled community network of nurseries, schools and mums’ clubs, while young singles and couples enjoy the fashionable yet unpretentious neighbourhood vibe.

Lordship Lane, the district’s spine, is stuffed with eateries and bars and also boasts a splendid 19th-century public library and art house cinema.

A Victorian corner building has been converted into Lordship House — eight flats above an interior design shop. Prices from £450,000. Call Kalmars on 020 7403 0600.

Leafy streets between Lordship Lane and Crystal Palace Road are becoming more popular, with small housing projects sprouting up on old garage sites and mews.

Tessa Apartments in East Dulwich Grove has brought nine two-bedroom flats priced from £600,000. Call 020 7403 0600 for more details.

Moments away, the former district hospital is being turned into a new school and health centre.