Private parks limited to resident use are a popular amenity in London’s luxury housing market.
The Georgian houses in London’s exclusive Connaught Square neighborhood remain as popular as when they were built in the 1820s. The brick buildings with white stucco accents around a central private garden continue to be among the most sought-after addresses in the city.
One of the homes on the square is on the market for £8 million (approximately US $10 million). The six-story property with 4,319 square feet of living space could accommodate a large family. It features balconies in the front and rear of the building and a third-floor terrace with city views.
A fireplace sets a welcoming tone in the living room.
The ground floor has a welcoming entrance hall, kitchen with granite-topped counters and center island and family room. The first floor’s high ceilings and open space design—dining room on one side and living room on the other—provide ample options for entertaining.
The primary bedroom takes up the entire second floor, with a private dressing area and en suite bathroom.
Dentil cown molding, a ceiling medallion and herringbone floors add elegance to the dining room.
Bedrooms and an office occupy the upper floors while a gym and one bedroom are below ground level. The lower ground floor also has a separate entrance and two storage areas. Residents have exclusive access to the tidy central gardens that serve as an oasis in the city.
The land is owned by Church Commissioners for England and comes with a 94-year lease. Owners pay £2,200 (approximately US $2,750) a year in rent.
A cozy family room sits off the kitchen.
“This is one of the last remaining houses that hasn’t bought the freehold,” listing agent Dylan James says. “It is also one of the biggest houses on the square.”
After two centuries, the square’s architectural charm hasn’t wavered.
The light and airy kitchen has a center island and a breakfast area.
Connaught Square was designed by architect Thomas Allason, who followed the 19th-century trend of integrating green space into residential areas. Former prime minister Tony Blair and British TV presenter Claudia Winkleman call the area home.
London’s famed Hyde Park is nearby. In 1536, Henry VIII took over the park as a personal hunting ground for deer. Since then, other royals have left their mark, such as Charles I, who opened the park to the public in 1637. Today, the park serves as a leafy retreat from city life and a popular tourist stop.
The sweeping staircase and curving architectural details add to the charm of the residence.
The square is close to the restaurants and shops of tony Connaught Village, and public transportation stops Marble Arch on the Central Line, Edgware Road on the Bakerloo Line and Paddington Station railway.
Dylan James of Chestertons is the listing agent.