PROPERTY WATCH

Knightsbridge Gardens, the UK’s first super prime residences-to-rent development, has recently been launched by the Knightsbridge Estate’s long-term owner, The Olayan Group. Thirty-three one- to four-bedroom residences have been designed by London architecture practice Fletcher Priest, with interiors by international interior design studio Taylor Howes. Each has been finished to turn-key standard, ready for the first tenants to move in immediately. Situated next to Hyde Park, overlooking Sloane Street and Brompton Road, the development is a tranquil sanctuary in the bustling heart of Knightsbridge, and just minutes’ walk from so many of London’s diplomatic missions. The development represents a significant milestone in the wider long-term strategy to breathe new life into Knightsbridge. Jonathan Shelton, MD of Real Estate Europe at The Olayan Group, said: “Much of our work on The Knightsbridge Estate…has sought to add value to the existing community of residents and businesses. We knew we wanted to approach the residential element with that same attitude. Making a thoughtful, long-lasting contribution to the neighbourhood was very important to us.”

Residents of Knightsbridge Gardens can expect five-star concierge service provided by a leading luxury management firm and bespoke partnerships with Knightsbridge’s iconic local establishments. Residents will also have exclusive access to the development’s bespoke club room, Orangery, and private courtyard gardens. As Nina McDowall, Director at Strutt & Parker Sloane Street, commented: “The main reasons that influence decisions to rent in Knightsbridge include the five-star location, shopping and connectivity, as well as the security and discretion afforded by homes here. Tenants here will be living the turnkey lifestyle, unencumbered by the hassle of home ownership, and able to turn up with their suitcase at one of the most exclusive addresses in the world.” 

The development’s completion comes as super prime lettings in London are surging post-pandemic, with strong domestic and overseas interest. Knightsbridge Gardens is the UK’s first apartment development in the super prime letting space, designed with the intention of being a fully ‘lights-on’ development in the centre of Knightsbridge, with tenants signing up for two-year leases at a minimum. To this end, Knightsbridge Gardens includes a mix of apartment sizes able to cater to a variety of possible tenants wanting to put down roots in London, from young families to professionals.

Pero Maticevic, Partner at Fletcher Priest Architects, said: “The nine buildings that form this site are part of the remarkable heritage of the Knightsbridge Estate… By reimagining the interiors of the buildings, whilst keeping the alignment with the precious facades, we have created a collection of decidedly individual homes evolved from the site’s rich history, connected by a tranquil communal courtyard at the heart of the city block.”

Arya Salari, Head of lettings in Knight Frank’s Knightsbridge office commented: “At these upper levels of the market, tenants are renting as a lifestyle choice. Renting gives them flexibility and freedom - freedom from running costs and service charges that contribute to facilities like residents’ spas, gyms and 24hr concierge. Plus, it provides flexibility to relocate whenever suits them... Renting means they don’t need to worry about assessing a volatile sales market or how their asset may have performed. Naturally, the higher level of stamp duty alongside tax for non-residents also means renting is a more straightforward decision and much quicker.”