Listing of the Day
Location: Cumberland Terrace, Regent’s Park, London, NW1
Price: £15 million (US$18.5 million)
The stretch of townhouses interconnected by neoclassical arches and columns known as Cumberland Terrace was designed by John Nash—better known as the architect responsible for Buckingham Palace—under the patronage of George IV. Completed in 1826, it stretches along the east side of Regent’s Park, one of London’s most sought after areas, which was originally constructed to house royal families and their guests.
Today, the guest list is just as substantial: President Barack Obama stayed there during his visits to London; the U.S. ambassador lives there and it’s also home to celebrities including Tom Ford, Damien Hirst, Stefano Gabbana, Sasha Baron Cohen, and Jamie Oliver.
In the words of listing agent Daniel Daggers, Cumberland Terrace "is exceptional. Literally like a painting. When the sun is bouncing off [of it], you feel like you’re in a Romantic-era painting."
This particular townhouse, which just had a nine-month-long renovation, is being sold by an owner who wishes to remain anonymous—though she has nevertheless left an indelible mark of someone from the world of fashion and design. "She’s arguably one of the best people in her field," said Mr. Daggers, "and this was her labor of love."
That’s no small feat, considering the home’s being listed as Grade I, meaning that all renovations have to work within the boundaries of historical preservation, and all original features must be maintained. "But she’s really brought it into the modern day," Mr. Daggers notes. "It’s a home for the 21st century. And yet what’s so special about Cumberland Terrace, is that because of this historical preservation listing, it will never change. Unlike any other neighborhood in London, the Terrace will look exactly the same 100 years from now."
The Stats
The house has five bedrooms and five bathrooms (four are en-suite). There are three living rooms or reception rooms, a study/dining room, a breakfast room, a wine cellar, a balcony and a garage.
Amenities
Not everyone has a royal park as a backyard. The house looks out onto 400 acres of gardens, with a southwest orientation that makes the home particularly bright. There is also a common garden that the homeowners have access to. Apart from the garage, the property includes two off-street parking spots.
Neighborhood Notes
In terms of practicality, Cumberland Terrace is close to public transportation, as well as major shopping areas like Marylebone High Street, Bond Street, and Regent Street.
Listing Agents: Daniel Daggers, Knight Frank; and Tim Macpherson, Carter Jonas, Knightsbridge & Chelsea
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