New public square proves west London is blooming
Homes set among spectacular public gardens by a Chelsea Flower Show medallist go on sale at Earl’s Court
THE affluence of prime west London is migrating outwards to Earl’s Court where developers are hoping to establish a new Chelsea. Over 800 new homes went on sale yesterday at Lillie Square, the first phase of a new scheme by Capital & Counties, which was behind the modernisation of Covent Garden’s piazza and market.
Now it hopes to do the same with a 77-acre site in Earl’s Court that’s sandwiched between Kensington, Fulham, and Chelsea, some of London’s most sought after addresses.
“We looked at what made those areas desirable to live in,” says project manager Mike Hood, “such as mansion blocks around garden squares. We’ve taken those components and re-interpreted them for Lillie Square. We’ve also looked at what they’re missing, and the current trend we’ve been seeing is hotel facilities in residential buildings. The real star is a private members’ club that’s as good as any other you’re likely to visit in London.”
Transforming a site this big is no mean feat, especially as 50 per cent of the space is green. The north end will be heavily-landscaped, while the south end towards West Brompton station feature more walkways. The greenery has been put in the capable hands of Andy Sturgeon, “Best in Show” and six times gold medallist at the Chelsea Flower Show. But that’s not the only green aspect Hood is worried about. “I find that people are increasingly looking for buildings that are sustainable and efficient. We’ll recycle water from the rainfall in the gardens, and we’ve got a whole programme to encourage people to use public transport or cycle, so they won’t instantly think to jump in their car.”
The first phase of Lillie Square will be completed in 2016. But Hood has his eye on a building that will far outlast its deadline in terms of style. Architect Paul Davis & Partners, the firm behind Duke of York Square off the King’s Road, has designed a series of bright blocks with glass-fronted balconies to admire the shrubberies below. “Ultimately, we wanted a place that won’t look dated 100 years from now – something that’s built to last.”
One to three bedroom apartments, and four to five bedroom townhouses available. Email sales@lilliesquare.com, or call 020 7381 9800.