St. James House, located just steps away from the Royal Palace, arguably has the best neighbors in London. The 100-year-old building being listed by Christie’s International Real Estate affiliate Strutt & Parker for about $32 million, was formerly owned by the Crown, and comprises some 46,000 square feet of interior space.
With period details intact, it is ready to be finished as one of the most prestigious private mansions in London, or developed into eight super-luxury residences. St. James Palace next door is the site of the Household Office of Prince William and Prince Harry. Their official residence, as well as Clarence House, home to Prince Charles and The Duchess of Cornwall, is on the grounds of the palace as well. The Queen resides nearby in Buckingham Palace.
The area around St. James’s has been home to aristocracy since King Charles II allowed the Palace’s park land to be developed in the 1660s. St. James is also home to hedge-funds and private banks such as Rothschild, the Ritz hotel, and a number of famed private clubs such as Boodles, and the legendary Jermyn St., synonymous with the finest in men’s custom tailoring.
However the buyer chooses to finish St. James House, it has been approved to house a gym, swimming pool, spa, and parking garage—rare amenities, even for the super-rich in the center of London. Crown molding, rich woodwork, marble inlays and elegant fireplaces are elements of one of the city’s most distinguished interiors.
