Knight Frank's Bold Move: A New Era in London's Real Estate Landscape
April 9, 2025, 4:53 am
Knight Frank, a titan in the global real estate arena, is shifting gears. The firm has signed a significant deal to relocate its global headquarters from the West End to the City of London. This move is more than just a change of address; it’s a strategic pivot that signals a new chapter for the company and the broader real estate market.
The firm will leave its current home at 55 Baker Street, where it has resided since 2008. Instead, it will plant its flag at One Liverpool Street, committing to an 18-year lease. This decision is noteworthy. Most of its competitors, like CBRE, Savills, and Colliers, have chosen to stay in the West End, where they occupy smaller spaces. Knight Frank is breaking the mold, following in the footsteps of JLL, which is also making a move to the City.
One Liverpool Street is set to be a landmark. The building will offer 176,000 square feet of top-tier office and retail space across ten floors. It’s not just about size; it’s about quality. The development aims for a BREEAM ‘outstanding’ rating, showcasing a commitment to sustainability. In a world increasingly focused on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria, this is a crucial step.
The City of London is known for its connectivity and vibrancy. Knight Frank’s new headquarters will be strategically positioned to attract talent and clients alike. The move reflects a broader trend in the real estate sector, where sustainability and modern amenities are becoming non-negotiable.
William Beardmore-Gray, the senior partner and group chair at Knight Frank, has emphasized the importance of this new space. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about functionality and future-proofing the business. The goal is to create an environment that embodies the firm’s market-leading brand while also catering to the evolving needs of its workforce.
The timing of this move is significant. As businesses worldwide adapt to post-pandemic realities, the demand for high-quality office space is surging. Companies are re-evaluating their real estate strategies, seeking spaces that promote collaboration and innovation. Knight Frank’s decision to relocate to a state-of-the-art facility aligns perfectly with this trend.
Sustainability is at the forefront of this development. With increasing regulations on energy efficiency, firms are under pressure to reduce their carbon footprints. Knight Frank’s commitment to a building with exceptional ESG credentials is a testament to its forward-thinking approach. This is not just a trend; it’s a necessity in today’s business landscape.
The move to One Liverpool Street also reflects a shift in the perception of the City. Traditionally seen as a financial hub, it is now becoming a desirable location for a variety of industries, including real estate. The City is evolving, and Knight Frank is positioning itself at the heart of this transformation.
Moreover, Knight Frank is not alone in this venture. The law firm Dentons has also secured space in the same building, taking 72,400 square feet. This clustering of major firms in the City could signal a renaissance for the area, attracting more businesses and talent.
The implications of this move extend beyond Knight Frank. It could set a precedent for other firms considering similar relocations. As the City continues to develop and modernize, it may become a magnet for businesses seeking a vibrant, sustainable, and well-connected environment.
In conclusion, Knight Frank’s relocation to One Liverpool Street is a bold statement. It reflects a commitment to sustainability, innovation, and a forward-looking vision. As the real estate landscape continues to evolve, this move could very well be a catalyst for change in the City of London. The future is bright, and Knight Frank is ready to lead the way.
This strategic shift is not just about a new headquarters; it’s about redefining what it means to be a leader in the real estate sector. The City of London is ready for this transformation, and Knight Frank is poised to make its mark. The journey ahead is filled with opportunities, and the firm is set to navigate them with confidence and ambition.
The firm will leave its current home at 55 Baker Street, where it has resided since 2008. Instead, it will plant its flag at One Liverpool Street, committing to an 18-year lease. This decision is noteworthy. Most of its competitors, like CBRE, Savills, and Colliers, have chosen to stay in the West End, where they occupy smaller spaces. Knight Frank is breaking the mold, following in the footsteps of JLL, which is also making a move to the City.
One Liverpool Street is set to be a landmark. The building will offer 176,000 square feet of top-tier office and retail space across ten floors. It’s not just about size; it’s about quality. The development aims for a BREEAM ‘outstanding’ rating, showcasing a commitment to sustainability. In a world increasingly focused on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria, this is a crucial step.
The City of London is known for its connectivity and vibrancy. Knight Frank’s new headquarters will be strategically positioned to attract talent and clients alike. The move reflects a broader trend in the real estate sector, where sustainability and modern amenities are becoming non-negotiable.
William Beardmore-Gray, the senior partner and group chair at Knight Frank, has emphasized the importance of this new space. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about functionality and future-proofing the business. The goal is to create an environment that embodies the firm’s market-leading brand while also catering to the evolving needs of its workforce.
The timing of this move is significant. As businesses worldwide adapt to post-pandemic realities, the demand for high-quality office space is surging. Companies are re-evaluating their real estate strategies, seeking spaces that promote collaboration and innovation. Knight Frank’s decision to relocate to a state-of-the-art facility aligns perfectly with this trend.
Sustainability is at the forefront of this development. With increasing regulations on energy efficiency, firms are under pressure to reduce their carbon footprints. Knight Frank’s commitment to a building with exceptional ESG credentials is a testament to its forward-thinking approach. This is not just a trend; it’s a necessity in today’s business landscape.
The move to One Liverpool Street also reflects a shift in the perception of the City. Traditionally seen as a financial hub, it is now becoming a desirable location for a variety of industries, including real estate. The City is evolving, and Knight Frank is positioning itself at the heart of this transformation.
Moreover, Knight Frank is not alone in this venture. The law firm Dentons has also secured space in the same building, taking 72,400 square feet. This clustering of major firms in the City could signal a renaissance for the area, attracting more businesses and talent.
The implications of this move extend beyond Knight Frank. It could set a precedent for other firms considering similar relocations. As the City continues to develop and modernize, it may become a magnet for businesses seeking a vibrant, sustainable, and well-connected environment.
In conclusion, Knight Frank’s relocation to One Liverpool Street is a bold statement. It reflects a commitment to sustainability, innovation, and a forward-looking vision. As the real estate landscape continues to evolve, this move could very well be a catalyst for change in the City of London. The future is bright, and Knight Frank is ready to lead the way.
This strategic shift is not just about a new headquarters; it’s about redefining what it means to be a leader in the real estate sector. The City of London is ready for this transformation, and Knight Frank is poised to make its mark. The journey ahead is filled with opportunities, and the firm is set to navigate them with confidence and ambition.