St James’s is one of the most famous districts of South West London. Many businesses set their sights on St James offices, and it is no wonder, because there really is so much appeal. Whether you choose a refurbished traditional building in St James Place London, a listed 18th century property on St James’s Square, or stunning, Crown Estate refurbished office space in St James’s Street, you are certain to benefit from a host of prime location benefits.
St James Place London: A Potted History
St James's Place is a street in the St James's district of London SW1. First developed around 1694, historian John Strype described it in 1720 as a "good Street ... which opened wide towards the upper End and receiveth a fresh Air out of the Park; the Houses are well-built, and inhabited by Gentry, especially the upper Part, where the Houses are larger and better built and inhabited ..."
The Park referred to is St James’s Park. Spanning almost 57 acres, the park was once a marshy water meadow. In the thirteenth century a leper hospital was founded in the name of St James, which gave the park its name. In 1532 Henry VIII acquired the site as a deer park, and built the Palace of St James's.
St James Place London is rather an eclectic mix of buildings. British author and editor Henry Benjamin Wheatley wrote in 1870 that it was "one of the oddest built streets in London." And, perhaps, he was right, as there are not many places in London where you’ll find such a variety of property types.
Many of the original houses still stand, although most have been considerably altered. Spencer House, commissioned by the 1st Earl Spencer in 1756, stands at number 27 and is listed as Grade I. A further thirteen properties are Grade II listed, and number 4 is Grade II* listed.
Much of St. James's Place London was laid out by the Rossingtons, the speculators who purchased Cleveland House and garden. For a while, the north-south line of the street was named Rossington Street, but that name didn’t last.
St. James Place London owes its unusual L-shaped formation to the fact it was built during two different periods, and on ground belonging to different owners.
The east-west line was built around 1685 on freehold land granted to Sir John Duncombe by the Crown, whilst the rest of the street was laid out during the 1690s on part of Cleveland House garden and also on part of the Pulteney estate, which had been set aside but not used for the formation of Green Park. On the other part of the Pulteney estate was Cleveland Court, occupying the numbers between 33 and 39.
As a result of its history, every building, street, square and park around the area of St James’s has its own unique story to tell, as if it were a living history. It is considered the foundation of British Society, and has been home to kings and queens for more than four centuries.
St James Place London enjoys picturesque views across St James's Street and the gardens of St James's Square. It is home to many of the most exclusive clubs in London, as well as a number of luxury retailers, fine restaurants, theatres and galleries. The renowned five star Dukes Hotel is also situated here, a sophisticated, luxury residence, known for its heritage style and fine dining.
Indeed, St James’s is one of the most desirable places to live and work in London, proving a popular draw for the office-based business. So, what is available in terms of St James offices?
Showcase: Three of the best St James offices
Offering a range of modern features, St James offices really do tick a lot of boxes for the business looking to rent property in one of the most exclusive districts of London.
39-40 St James’s Place
These refurbished, fully fitted office suites in the heart of St James Place London are situated next to Dukes Hotel and within a few minutes’ walk of Green Park and Green Park underground station. Featuring a passenger lift, central heating, a partitioned layout plus two separate areas which can be used as offices or meeting rooms on each floor, the lower ground and fourth floor offices are available to let.
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33 St James’s Square
These serviced offices are available to let and are serviced by discreet and attentive personnel who provide a dedicated reception, personalised call answering, mail handling and business support service. The grand listed building was built in 1770, designed by architect Robert Adam. Situated in the centre of St James’s Square, the 91 fully furnished offices and eight meeting rooms are arranged over nine floors and finished to a very high standard. There are video conferencing facilities, a formal club lounge, 24 hour access, air conditioning, modern kitchens, shower rooms with complimentary toiletries and linen, and professional cleaning throughout the day.
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32 St James’s Street
These offices to let on the east side of St James’s Street, close to the junction with Jermyn Street, have been recently refurbished by the Crown Estate. Available on a short form lease, so no need for solicitors, the offices are partly fitted and fibre ready.
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For St James offices, talk to Mellersh & Harding, the London property specialists
At Mellersh & Harding, we have an extensive portfolio of office space to let around the St James Place London area. Why not get in touch today to discuss your individual requirements? You can reach our dedicated team on 020 7522 8500.
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