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The Power of a porter

Mon 16 Sep 2019

Paul Bennett, Director

While the concept of having a porter might sound like something from Jeeves & Wooster or the novel Porterhouse Blue, an ‘at your service’ attendant is still a real asset in today’s busy world. 

A traditional solution to modern problems

“Porters are a real asset in today’s busy world,” comments Mehran Heidari, a sales negotiator at Behr & Butchoff. “Internet shopping has created a steady flow of deliveries to properties and a porter ensures a parcel is never sent back. Our clients who work extended hours, travel frequently for business or who have second homes also appreciate the reassurance a porter brings. Knowing somebody is being vigilant and monitoring the flow of people is peace-of-mind movers are willing to pay a premium for.”

Porters: a London mansion block staple

The need for porters arose around the 19th century when the majority of London’s stunning mansion blocks were built - many in the prime areas we cover, such as St. John’s Wood, Maida Vale, Marylebone and Regent’s Park. These red brick constructions from the Victorian and Edwardian periods usually featured receptions that were manned by a porter. While the duties of the porter may have changed over time, from merely helping with luggage and calling the lift, they are still a valuable and much desired aspect of apartment living.

What are the benefits of an on-site porter?

  • They help maintain mansion block standards by spotting and reporting building issues, and overseeing repairs

  • They are a buffer to the outside world, acting as the first point of contact for guests, trades, deliveries and unwanted callers

  • They will often hold a spare key for residents and let trades in, if required

  • They allow residents to ‘lock up and leave’ their property, knowing there is an on-site presence guarding the building

The progression of the porter

More modern apartment buildings have sought to emulate the benefits of a porter but have enhanced the service by developing the concierge role. As well as the same duties as a porter, a concierge may offer more lifestyle assistance, such as booking taxis, organising dry cleaning, offering a valet parking service and making dinner reservations.

Properties available with porters

Eyre Court

Set in the heart of St John’s Wood is one of the area’s most coveted mansion blocks – Eyre Court. Behr & Butchoff is selling a spacious three-bedroom apartment on the third floor, with the resident able to enjoy an on-site porter and a location opposite St John’s Wood Tube station.

 

Boydell Court      

Boydell Court – a gated development with a 24-hour porter service – lies between Swiss Cottage and St. John’s Wood. Behr & Butchoff is marketing a luxury three-bedroom triplex apartment for rent, set across the 9th, 10th and 11th floors. The apartment features open plan living, a roof terrace, cast iron fireplaces, beamed ceilings and a lift.

If you would like further information on properties with porters or concierges, contact our team today.