For any business considering locating in the sought after district of Belgravia in London SW1, due consideration must be given to Belgrave Square. But whilst it may be renowned for its celebrated 200 year old listed architecture and privileged location close to Knightsbridge, Buckingham Palace and Hyde Park Corner, its history is also something to relish. Join us as we embark on a journey of discovery around Belgrave Square, taking in the lush and leafy Belgrave Square Garden en route.
Designed by George Basevi for developers William and George Haldimand, Belgrave Square began its creation as an iconic residential development in the 1820s. By 1840, many of the grand stuccoed houses were occupied, forming a square of perfect symmetry, all set around the leafy Belgrave Square Garden, a private two-hectare communal garden, listed Grade II on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens.
Belgrave Square is made up of four terraces, each consisting of eleven residences. The south east terrace is slightly different, divided into twelve. There are also detached mansions in three corners.
Belgrave Square - an architectural dream
The architecture of Belgrave Square is a sight to behold. Time has been kind to the facades and frontages, which have retained their elegance over two centuries thanks to respectful and faithful refurbishment.
From the fine detailing around the windows and railings, to the pillars and street lamps, there are echoes of the past at every turn, to the point where your imagination would almost allow you to hear the age old clatter of the horse drawn carts, replaced now with the luxury cars of the 21st century.
Famous residents, interesting uses
From the Embassies of Austria, Spain, Norway, Serbia, Romania, Portugal and Germany, to the Royal College of Psychiatrists, the Duke of Kent and William Lygon, 7th Earl Beauchamp, Belgrave Square has certainly had its fair share of notable residents.
During the First World War, Belgrave Square was used as a base by the St John Ambulance Brigade. Later during World War II, it became a temporary tank park, as well as a Red Cross supply depot.
Once the war was over, most of the houses were converted into offices, housing charities and institutes. More recently, a lot of the properties have reverted to residential status, offering hidden gems of modern luxury behind period façades.
Why choose Belgrave Square as a business location?
Direct access to the beautiful green space offered by the exclusive, members-only Belgrave Square Garden has to be one of the biggest pulls for those businesses looking to locate in South West London.
Belgrave Square Garden features large plane trees, some of which date back to the original planting of the 1800s. Take a tranquil stroll amidst the wisteria-covered pergolas, pausing to admire the lovely rose bushes on your way. There is a tennis court and a children’s play area too and, with Belgrave Square Garden committed to public art, there are often temporary art installations to enjoy as well.
Next on the agenda for the ultimate business location has to be transport links. Belgrave Square is gifted in this respect, with Knightsbridge and Hyde Park Corner Underground Stations on Piccadilly Line close by, and the transport interchange on the Victoria, District and Circle lines and Gatwick Express and Mainline Rail just minutes away too.
What’s on offer property wise in Belgrave Square?
Much of Belgravia and indeed London SW1 is teeming with sophisticated mansion blocks, appealing apartment buildings and elegant Victorian residences.
Many of the listed buildings have been converted into offices, with tasteful refurbishments preserving lots of the original period features, whilst accommodating the needs of the modern workforce with the likes of high speed internet, passenger lifts, commissionaire services and shower and changing facilities.
One example is 14-15 Belgrave Square, Belgravia, London SW1X, where you’ll find striking office space with commanding four-metre ceiling heights and lashings of natural light.
This Belgrave Square workspace, located on the west side of the square, features shared meeting rooms, a ground floor reception, kitchen facilities, a passenger lift and commissionaire services. Fully upgraded to today’s standards, the space comprises a first floor, which is available in full or in part, and a second floor, which is self-contained and arranged as three connecting rooms in an open plan layout.
Looking for office space in Belgrave Square? Talk to Mellersh & Harding, your London commercial property specialists.
Tempted by the architectural grandeur and fascinating history that surrounds Belgrave Square? Then why not talk to the experts at Mellersh & Harding about exploring properties in the area?
With a vast portfolio of offices to rent or buy in London’s most well-regarded districts, you are sure to find the ideal location for your business. To discuss your specific requirements, you are welcome to contact our dedicated team on 020 7522 8500.
Back