Hatton Garden is all a-glitter
Homes & Property, Evening Standard, 23rd July 2008Few parts of London have such a fascinating history as the City fringe districts of Hatton Garden, Old Bailey, Smithfield, Temple and Fleet Street. They are steeped in the most colourful history and have been urban since the Middle Ages, as the surviving inns and alleyways, monasteries and mansions, churches and almshouses testify.
The rich mix of architectural styles and periods - from medieval to modern - means wach neighbourhood has a distinctive flavour and charm. Traditionally they have been commercial quarters, where old professions, guilds and trades - from law, through journalism to jewellery making - have flourised. But the area has always moved with the times.
In recent years, global accountancy firms have moved in, which has triggered demand for homes. At the same time, old style office buildings and factories, inappropriate for modern business with all its technological needs, are coming up for redevelopment and spawning more residential space. Most are smallscale schemes of boutique flats, in keeping with the area’s individuality. These EC postcodes appeal to knowledgeable Londoners.
Thornsett Group is building 124 apartments just behind ancient Charterhouse Square on land previously owned by Bart’s Hospital. Prices are from £415,000. Call 020 7253 2533.