Chelsea Barracks: Inside London’s Hottest New Neighborhood

By Katey Clifford Known for its Georgian homes and rich architectural history, West London’s Belgravia already dominates the real estate market. Making it even more appealing is the spectacular Chelsea Barracks, an entirely new neighborhood spanning nearly 13 acres of land on the southern tip of the Belgravia district, where—as the name suggests—housing for the British Army stood for 150 years. Qatari Diar purchased the site for almost £1 billion in 2008 and has spent the years since transforming it—with spectacular results. Townhouses are designed to create a sense of connection to nature. (Photo: Brotherton Lock) The first 67 luxury apartments that became available in 2019 as phase 1 of the build have been flying off the market, with over 90 percent of stock already sold. The next phase will feature 97 more apartments, and by 2023 another 32,000 square feet of amenity space for all residents. There are also 13 six-story townhouses by architects PDP London, including two dressed homes by interior design studio Albion Nord. And that’s just the beginning of what Chelsea Barracks has to offer. Photo: Jack Hobhouse A massive five acres—40 percent of Chelsea Barracks—is devoted to landscaped gardens open to the public. Greenery and subtle water features wind seamlessly around Whistler Square, Mulberry Square, and the not yet completed Five Fields, making for a neighborhood immersed in nature. “[We] wanted to create a truly accessible place where people come to sit, take time out, and be a part of the natural environment, and our green spaces make this vision a reality,” says Tariq Al Abdulla, chief development and project delivery officer (Europe & America) at Chelsea Barracks. Planted with native species and culinary and medicinal plants, the gardens provide an array of fragrances throughout the year. Chelsea Barracks also achieved LEED Platinum status, making it the most sustainable development in Europe. Indoor amenities are equally impressive. The Garrison Club, accessible to all residents, boasts a 13,000-square-foot spa, 65-foot pool, fitness center, private training studio, steam room, sauna and treatment rooms, tepidarium, business suite, 16-seat cinema, resident lounge, boardrooms, private function room, and games room, in addition to lifestyle services facilitated by a 24-hour onsite concierge. Chelsea Barracks’ location also lends itself to the principles of a 15-minute city concept, where work, shopping, entertainment, schools, and daily necessities are a short walk or bike ride away. Inspired by the flow of the Thames, a water feature runs through Whistler Square. (Photo: Brotherton Lock) “At the heart of Chelsea Barracks is our commitment to delivering homes that set new standards for London living,” says Richard Oakes, chief sales and marketing officer, Europe and America, at Qatari Diar. “Rooted in history but with our feet firmly in the future, 3 Mulberry Square perfectly redefines the traditional Belgravia townhouse. Together with PDP and Albion Nord, we have paid homage to Belgravia and the best of historic London, while adapting the townhouses to how we live today and for years to come—to far exceed tradition.” Chelsea Barracks, London | Prices upon request Rupert des Forges | O: +4420 7861 1777 | rupert.desforges@knightfrank.com Hamish Eggins | O: +4420 7861 1056 | hamish.eggins@knightfrank.com