Defying the downturn – the Hampstead Heath effect
The north London villages of Hampstead and Highgate which border Hampstead Heath, one of London’s most popular and scenic green open spaces are defying the downturn with homes selling as quickly as in 2007, accordingly to local agent Glentree Estates.
Homes close to or with views of the heath in Kenwood have fared particularly well throughout the downturn due to their cherished location. Trevor Abrahmsohn, Glentree Estates comments: “Kenwood is renowned for its country feel, yet it is only 20 minutes from Central London. People are drawn to the perfect combination of the heath, the quaint, historic villages of Hampstead and Highgate and the short journey time into the capital. Despite the downturn we have seen a price increase in Hampstead, Highgate and Kenwood of 7% this year with prices at the top end of the market now almost back to peak 2007 values. There is an acute shortage of properties in some postcodes and homes are selling as quickly now as they were in the boom of in 2007.”
Trevor continues “As well as UK buyers the area attracts a large number of international buyers who find the history of N6 irresistible. One of the most exclusive developments on our books Kenwood Place boarders Hampstead Heath and you can literally walk to Spaniards Inn, the 16th Century watering hole made famous by Dick Turpin. The weak pound has also fuelled interest from international buyers, anyone converting from euros or dollars will be getting the equivalent of a 45 per cent discount against peak values today.”
Kenwood Place is a new collection of exquisite apartments set in private, gated, landscaped grounds complete with ancient trees and a private entrance into the heath which comprises 21 apartments, five of which are penthouses located in three buildings, each benefiting from 24-hour concierge services.
Designed by award-winning architect David Chipperfield, each sculpted building is finished in warm natural Northumberland stone with floor to ceiling bronzed windows. Private terraces have been designed to bring the outside in and become part of the rooms offering private, sheltered outdoor space. The end result is an architecturally dynamic, innovative and bespoke scheme that offers one of the most desirable and striking new build developments in the UK, and the last opportunity to buy new build home on Hampstead Heath.
Space, light, cool design, lateral living, excellent security and complete privacy are the key elements of Kenwood Place. Natural light floods into the apartments through the huge windows. Spacious rooms, unusual high ceilings, window security shutters, solid wood floors, fireplaces and bespoke features reflect the quality and design in each living space.
This exclusive development includes a private health club with gym, swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room and apartments come complete with secure underground parking spaces. Each building which is home to just seven apartments has 24-hour on-site concierge service, provided by Harrods Estates Asset Management providing a six star hotel-style service.
Kenwood Place is located between Hampstead and Highgate, two of the capital’s most fashionable and historic villages. This trendy part of London has old streets crammed with boutiques, one-off shops, trendy bars, cafés and prestigious restaurants and is home to a host of celebrities.
For active types the local area benefits from two golf courses and tennis courts, while some of the country’s leading independent schools including Highgate School, St Margaret’s and Royal School are a short journey away.
Hampstead Heath is 800 acres of stunning green open space which offers countryside, parks and woodland on the doorstep. As well as a large lake which attracts a host of wild birds, the heath features three swimming ponds. In addition to walking, swimming, cycling and running people enjoy picnics, feeding the ducks and even flying kites on the hill.
Hampstead and Highgate are well served by local transport links – both are situated on the northern line and provide journeys times into central London of just 20 minutes. The A1 and M1 motorways are a short drive away providing links to the rest of the country as well as Heathrow, Luton and Stansted airports.
Prices for the remaining apartments start from £3.75 million. Viewings are by appointment only. For further information visit kenwoodplace.co.uk.
