The presence of water transforms any environment, giving it a calm no other element can provide. The Thames is a body of water that soothes London as it passes through it, and it creates a setting that is irresistible to all. Home buyers in particular are much swayed by its proximity: properties on the Thames are always very highly sought-after and it’s no mystery why.
The stretch of the river at Hampton Wick west of London is especially prized. Many who want to live by the Thames but would rather not put up with the bustle of central London find peace here, not to mention some of London’s most lovely neighbourhoods, shops and restaurants.
Howard Holdings has created Marina Place, the residential part of the Hampton Wick Riverside development.
Occupying a prominent position next to Kingston Bridge, this innovative riverside development is set to become an imposing landmark. As the name suggests, the scheme is centred around a private marina. It features a balanced mix of offices and restaurants alongside the 40 exclusive two-bedroom apartments, duplexes and penthouses, divided into the North and South Apartments.
Hampton Wick Riverside is designed to create a dramatic impact on the river. All apartments overlook the marina and have views towards the river from private balconies. Clever use of natural light is an integral component of the development, making the most of the riverside setting and emphasising space.
There are impressive entrance lobbies and communal areas. An on-site concierge gives the feeling of security, and all residents benefit from underground parking with direct lift access into the apartments.
The area is fabulous, packed with history and natural beauty. The development borders Home Park, the grounds of Hampton Court Palace. Its unique location allows residents access to the rich parklands of Hampton Court and Bushey Park, while Richmond Park and Canbury Gardens are nearby.
Marina Place’s contemporary design includes all the essential ingredients required to produce a vibrant, urban mixed-use waterside development. The development has created an active water frontage, with boardwalk access for the general public. It has also made an indirect contribution to reviving ‘dead public spaces’ at the rear of John Lewis on the opposite bank, where there is now also residential property.
This wonderful environment is only half an hour from central London, yet it feels a million miles from the stress of the capital. And this is the true measure of success of the environment.
For further information on Marina Place visit howardholdings.com.
City & Country Group’s Standon Mill project is one of Hertfordshire’s most unusual conversions. This collection of gorgeous apartments in a former flour mill, which is located in the picturesque village of Standon, is characterised by high ceilings, abundant light and top-of-the-range specification. This is a development that truly transforms the building, resulting in first-class homes and saving the historic structure to be enjoyed by future generations.
Standon Mill is an award-winning development which offers unusually large rooms and flexible space, two attributes that the buyer of today demands. Each apartment is unique and emphasises the industrial origin of the homes. These apartments have such distinctive touches original steel pillars, authentic floor-to-ceiling industrial windows and various high-design walls, such as curved, glass-block and fold-away options.
Built in 1901, this traditional period building stands in a rural location adjacent to the River Rib. Properties retain original features, including cast iron columns, exposed brick walls and brickwork arches. The development boasts landscaped communal gardens and allocated parking.
Standon offers easy access to the M25, via the M11 or A10. Trains also run regularly from Bishop’s Stortford to London Liverpool Street and Cambridge, with journey times in both directions approximately 40 minutes. Call City & Country on 01279 818900 for more information.
Convent court
History is in the air in Windsor, where Westcombe Homes have created Convent Court. From the former convent of St John, Westcombe’s development company HollyHedge Ltd has formed contemporary living spaces. HollyHedge invested a great deal of time and attention to restoring the magnificent gothic buildings and protecting their unique character.
Surrounded by sensitively landscaped grounds, Convent Court provides an attractive and welcoming environment which is perfectly suited for modern life.
Each apartment offers highly contemporary yet classic styling – the perfect blend of modern and historic influences. Prime European oak wood flooring sets a tone of elegance throughout the hallway and lounge, while fully fitted carpets to the bedrooms create a feeling of luxury. Stylish kitchens have superior specification including Neff appliances.
The Windsor area has royal connections, of course, as well as an association with Eton College. Nearby are Ascot and Windsor racecourses, as well as three international golf courses – Wentworth, Sunningdale and Royal Ascot Golf Club.
More modern attractions include fine high street stores and designer boutiques, antiques and art shops. There are wonderful restaurants and cafés with an upmarket feel and a wide range of cuisines. The Thames and Windsor Great Park are beautiful resources, where hours of relaxation can be found. The entire area, in fact, is suited to a leisurely lifestyle.
Transport is convenient. Convent Court is easily reached by car from junction 2 of the M40 or junction 6 of the M4, from where the M25, M11, M23 and M3 are quickly accessed. Windsor station offers journeys to Paddington in just 30 minutes, while Ascot has frequent trains to Reading and London Waterloo.
Formerly home to the Clewer Sisters and a place of help and shelter for outcast women. When the Sisters moved to new accommodation in 2001 the Convent closed its doors. Now the building is reborn as a collection of fine homes. It is the fact that such a delicate undertaking was done so well that has landed Convent Court on this year’s Awards shortlist.
Find out more about Convent Court by visiting westcomehomes.com.