What initially attracted Northacre to No.1 Palace Street, in which the House of Walpole apartment is located?
No. 1 Palace Street, The St. Regis Residences is not only unique due to its location opposite Buckingham Palace, but also because it spans five different architectural styles across an island site. The development is steeped in history and started life as The Palace Hotel. Northacre is synonymous with design and the very best architecture. We have a rich history of developing some of London’s most historical residences, which sit behind retained facades. The challenge and opportunity that the site represented was perfect for us.
Why did you want to collaborate on this project with Walpole? What is the attraction of British craftsmanship to the apartment’s potential buyers?
The restoration of this building has included craftmanship from start to finish. There are many historical and listed features within the building that have been lovingly restored including the fireplaces, cornicing and one of the main staircases. With each architectural style the building tells a wonderful story of British craftmanship. We have been Walpole members for six years and this project has been in conversation for at least four years – two of those have been design and planning it! Given the site's heritage and situation opposite Buckingham Palace we really wanted to celebrate the best of british, and who better to collaborate with than the industry body for British luxury?
Take a visual tour of the House of Walpole here.
Personally, what is your favourite feature of the House of Walpole?
There are so many to choose from, but I love the powder room that features the hand-painted Cole & Son wallpaper of Queen Charlotte’s menagerie. A space that can often be forgotten feels so majestic. I also love that every drawer and wardrobe in the apartment hides beautifully styled fashion and accessories.
When it comes to the super-prime market in London, are you seeing increased interest from certain regions around the world?
We have definitely seen an increase in enquiries from the US recently. I think they are really drawn to the history of this development, plus it’s a good time to buy for dollar-backed clients. However, No.1 Palace Street really does resonate with so many different nationalities. We have also welcomed local buyers to the project, many who are downsizing and are attracted by the benefits of living in a development with amenities, but who are also looking for somewhere with historical detail and heritage.
What are the interesting trends emerging in the super-prime housing market that you have noticed recently?
In terms of the super-prime market there is a new Ultra Super-Prime market emerging for new developments in Westminster. In part, this is due to the introduction of the new Westminster city plan, meaning that apartments of this size simply won’t be built in this district anymore.
How did the partnership with St. Regis come about?
St. Regis has been interested in the development for a number of years, and naturally we were keen to have them on board before we welcome residents’ home for the first time. I think branded residences offer buyers a quality stamp and a benchmark for the level of service that they will receive.
Read our interview with Sharon Lillywhite on her interior design for the House of Walpole.
Read our interview with curator Maeve Doyle on her favourite art hanging in the House of Walpole.
