Make your next home a mansion block
Mon 07 Oct 2019
Paul Bennett, Director
Of all the property types that have stood the test of time, London’s mansion blocks are up there with the best. Although these imposing, typically red brick buildings date back to the Victorian and Edwardian eras, they remain perennially popular amoung home movers for their location, sense of history, safety and grand proportions – especially among those seeking the perfect ‘lock up and leave’ property.
Here at Behr & Butchoff, we are lucky enough to be surrounded by some of the finest mansion blocks in the city, many of which have been renovated and adapted to suit life in the 21st century.
Mansion blocks: a short history
Although apartments were traditionally associated with the lower classes, mansion blocks signalled a new house building era to cater for the wealthy masses who wanted to live in London. By building upwards, mansion blocks allowed people to be housed in a more practical and compact, yet luxurious, way.
Most of London’s mansion blocks were built during the Victorian period, frequently in the quieter areas to set residents away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. The first mansion block was Albert Hall Mansions, built in 1876, and its red brick and stone frontage, paired with ornate detailing and iron-railed balconies, became the template for the rest of the London’s mansions blocks.
The mansion blocks of today
The fabric and original features of the inaugural mansion blocks remain their most defining and desirable characters – ones that are scarcely replicated in new builds and modern apartments. Stunning views, grand interiors often featuring marbled hallways and block wood flooring, and generous proportions are key facets, with many properties offering over 2,000 sq. ft of living space and boasting 11ft high ceilings.
Today’s mansion blocks also retain their original services too, with porters, on-site management and gated communal gardens. The Behr & Butchoff team has also handled the sale and let of some mansion block properties that have exclusive use of private swimming pools and gymnasiums – later additions that have kept the accommodation relevant.
Mansion blocks worth mentioning
Some of London’s most magnificent mansion blocks are located in and around St John’s Wood, close to the Behr & Butchoff office. These include Eyre Court; North Gate; St Stephen’s Close; Hanover House; Neville Court; Strathmore Court; Stockleigh Hall and Apsley House, to name a few.
Available through Behr & Butchoff
We currently have an appealing apartment for sale at Neville Court - a popular portered mansion block situated opposite the famous Abbey Road crossing. This elegant four double bedroom apartment on the third floor enjoys a classic red brick and render façade, two balconies and period details including bay windows.
Located along Grove End Road, only 400 yards from St John’s Wood High Street and Underground Station, is this bright one-bedroom flat to rent, located on the third floor of the Addison House mansion block. The tenant will benefit from communal gardens, a porter, a lift and parking on a first come, first served basis.
If you are keen to enjoy the benefits of mansion block living, whether you are wishing to purchase or rent a property, please contact us today. We would also be delighted to handle the sale or let of a mansion block property you own.