Property expert Simon Barnes gives a low down on some of the most desirable streets in Prime Central London
“Property in prime central London is a two-tier market:
- The first tier is made up of a limited number of properties in most price ranges which can be found in the right condition and perfect location and which, are offered at the proper price.
- The second tier consists of a large number properties located ‘on the fringe’, perhaps on the wrong side of the street, lacking key amenities or not presented in absolutely the best condition.”
ON MAYFAIR
Simon Barnes says: “There are really only ten most desirable streets in Mayfair.” Here are Simon’s top four:
Charles Street – Simon Barnes says: “A street with houses that contrast in style and architectural features, with some narrower than others. At the rear, you will see that others back closely onto houses in Hay’s Mews to the north and Clarges Mews to the south.”
Upper Grosvenor Street – “Refined elegance with some fine houses, this is old Mayfair as we know it.”
Mount Street – “Now rivalling Bond Street as a chic shopping destination with stylish flagship boutiques and heritage brands – Mount Street has a vibrant village feel.”
Green Street – Simon Barnes says: “In reality, even in the prestigious location Green Street, Mayfair there are perhaps only four or five houses that I would recommend buyers view.”
ON KENSINGTON
Simon Barnes says: “It’s the same story in Kensington.
Holland Villas Road – houses on one side of Holland Villas Road back on to the noisy Holland Road, while houses on the other side back onto the very much quieter large houses of Addison Road.”
ON BELGRAVIA
Simon Barnes says: “At first glance the houses lining the smart streets in Belgravia appear identical.
Cadogan Place – “One of Belgravia’s most desirable and prestigious streets. At the eastern end houses are white stucco fronted buildings, yet at the southerly end they are plainer with brick facades. While the white facades may seem attractive, all these houses back closely onto their mews houses. The brick fronted houses are much better; more space at the rear, quieter and altogether a better location.”
Mayfair images
Simon Barnes of H Barnes & Co says: “ Chiltern Street works because the thinking and planning behind it was so well thought through and orchestrated. It is based on a unique concept, shirking the predictable chain shops and crafting a look and atmosphere that requires each retail unit to bring something individual with the right image and feel to suit the ‘village style’.
