This year’s list of London’s top 10 developments is a reflection of how regeneration in the Capital has responded to different challenges over the last 12 months. Connectivity and convenience still play a key role in most tenant’s choices but innovation will always be appreciated and often the details make all the difference. The period facade of Fitzroy Place, the nautical stylings of Marine Wharf, the Harrods-run concierge of 375 Kensington High Street. All these features speak of living spaces which are in harmony with their surroundings and not just boxes of gated luxury. Of course, all of our sixteen lettings branches are keen to talk up the fine properties on their respective stamping grounds but we only have room for ten so here goes…
Who wants to live there: Now a perennial favourite with young professionals who are starting to move up the corporate ladder. They are attracted to its competitively priced luxury that despite a Zone 4 location, is still just half an hour from Central London by Tube. Roomy apartments and a close knit community atmosphere are also an attraction. Cutting-edge security technology ensures total peace of mind and on-site leisure facilities including a spa and gym make this top of our list.
Who wants to live there: Superb transport links that include a short ferry ride to Canary Wharf and an Overground station only one stop away from the Jubilee Line make Marine Wharf a firm favourite with the Docklands workforce. They can, in some cases see their offices from their bedrooms but the River Thames provides a welcome sense of distance. Young families are attracted to the many excellent schools in the neighbourhood.
Who wants to live there: Fans of the type of upscale riviera lifestyle that this superb Thameside location provides. The apartments overlook a network of canals, inlets and jetties, all populated by sleek pleasure craft and bordered by meticulously landscaped gardens. Residents of Chelsea Creek are within walking distance from Imperial Wharf and can catch the Overground train service that joins the District Line at West Brompton. They can be browsing along the fashionable King’s Road ten minutes after leaving their front door.
Who wants to live there: Media professionals working in nearby Charlotte Street appreciate the eclectic buzz of the surrounding streets, west of Tottenham Court Road. Dedicated gastronauts are spoiled for choice as a wave of innovative chefs have set up shop in the area (aka the Roka effect). Close enough to the main retail thoroughfares of the West End but hidden away from the tourist haunts, Fitzroy Place is a pocket of luxury seclusion right in the centre of London.
Who wants to live there: Tenants who want the semi-rural riverside setting but without the prohibitive Richmond price tag will find much to like in Kew Bridge. The fact that the development is situated on the North bank gives residents gorgeous views of the Thames as it curves its way around the lush expanse of Kew Gardens. Overground trains provide fast links to Waterloo Station and the chic cafe culture of Chiswick and Ealing is closeby.
Who wants to live there: Far-sighted pioneers who recognise the potential of, not only the proposed Northern Line extension on their doorstep, but also the arrival of the new riverside Apple HQ nearby. The greater Nine Elms area is destined to become the epicentre of a whole new technological and cultural community with its own galleries, parks and theatres. For corporate professionals, Zone1 transport connections from Vauxhall make short work of the commute to the City and the West End.
Who wants to live there: Kensington remains one of the most sought after districts in London with corporate high-flyers willing to pay extra for the prestige that living in the royal borough brings. Luxury extras are evident throughout the development; from the chandeliers in the reception area to the five-star concierge service.
Who wants to live there: Located close to the governmental and legislative centres of the UK, Abell & Cleland attracts establishment big-hitters requiring a pied-a-terre in the capital. Corporate professionals also appreciate its proximity to all Central London’s major Tube lines. The development blends well into the prestigious surroundings that include the Houses of Parliament and the Tate Gallery.
Who wants to live there: The City fringe districts are a distinct growth area in terms of desirable places to live in the capital. Close enough to the Square Mile for corporate professionals to realise that elusive “zero commute” dream and near enough to the hip enclave of Shoreditch to put all that saved time to good use.
Who wants to live there: This is ideal for those who view the River Thames as something a bit more than a famous backdrop. Fulham Reach is right next to Hammersmith Bridge which is where the Thames path leads to various restaurants, pubs and boat clubs. Relaxed riverside living just a few minutes from the District Line Tube is what this pristine development offers.
The above top ten are based on rentals we’ve been doing this year, but of course, we serve all of London so if you have a property to let please contact us or get a free valuation here.