Residents in Notting Hill, London, attempted to discourage selfie-taking tourists and social media influencers by painting their homes black. The intention was to make the street less visually appealing to those seeking popular photo locations.

Unexpected Outcome

However, this strategy unexpectedly backfired. The unique black facades are now attracting even more attention, turning the homes into a popular spot for photoshoots.

A New Attraction

The three homes on Lancaster Road, now starkly contrasting with the vibrant colours of their neighbours, have become a sought-after location for visitors. Tourists are actively seeking out the black houses, with some praising the aesthetic choice as ‘classy’ and a striking contrast.

International Appeal

Visitors from France and Spain have been observed taking pictures, acknowledging the irony of the situation. One tourist noted the colour evoked a sense of sadness, while another found it a refreshing change from London’s predominantly white buildings.

Resident Frustration

Despite the aesthetic appreciation, the increased attention has led to frustration for local residents. A local resident reported an increase in litter and disrespectful behaviour from tourists.

Google Maps Listing

This has been exacerbated by a Google Maps listing that labels the street as the ‘Notting Hill House of Colors’. Neighbours feel their quality of life is being negatively impacted, lamenting the loss of peace and quiet and the impoliteness of some visitors.

Gentrification and Tourism

The transformation of Notting Hill from a historically disadvantaged area to a trendy and expensive hotspot is a key factor in this situation. The area’s evolution over the past three decades has brought economic benefits but also increased tourism and gentrification pressures.

Homeowners' Intentions

The homeowners, who wish to remain anonymous, initially hoped to discourage influencers who were treating the street as a personal photo studio. Despite their efforts, the black houses have become a destination in themselves, demonstrating the unpredictable nature of social media trends and the power of visual contrast.