London’s Architectural History: The Mews Revival 

Often hidden amongst picturesque locations, mews properties once were considered modest buildings serving London’s most affluent estates. A nostalgic reminder of the capital’s traditional history, they have now become one of the most sought-after and quintessential aspects of London’s cityscape.

At Hornsey Town Hall, we have created our Ruby Mews collection of nine new apartments blending the best of mews living with an Art Deco twist.

The Royal Connection

Mews were initially built in the 14th Century during the reign of King Richard III to house the royal hawks throughout their moulting season; hence their unique name ‘mews’, derived from the French phrase ‘to moult’. The Royal Mews, originally located in Charing Cross were destroyed in a fire in 1537, but were subsequently rebuilt as stables, where they continue to hold the title of the Royal Mews to this day.

The current site for the Royal Mews can be found at Buckingham Palace, providing road transport for the royal family, and serving as the training grounds for the horses that pull the carriages during state occasions.

Tranquil Living

Mews properties have remained a quiet constant within the city. Their purpose as spaces for servants and horses evolved as London advanced into the 20th Century, becoming an idyllic and charming place for many to live right in the centre of London.

For a resident, mews properties offer a quiet luxury of convenience and privacy. Their enclosed design and typical location on classic cobbled or paved service roads reduces intrusive through traffic, providing a highly desired sense of security, perfect for family living.

It’s no surprise that mews properties are a popular aspect of London’s architecture, and why they are fashionable dwellings for the city’s dynamic population. The capital is truly the home of mews, with 12,000 properties dotted around the city, each embodying its own chapter in London’s history.

Blending Traditional with Contemporary

As part of our restoration of the Grade II* Listed Hornsey Town Hall, our Ruby Mews collection of nine mews apartments capture the charming essence of the historic design. Special consideration has been made within the interior to ensure the space is bright and airy, with the apartments containing large windows and Art Deco inspired features such as chevron timber flooring and terrazzo inspired worktops.

The exterior of our Ruby Mews apartments boasts the same picturesque elements found in traditional mews properties. Factoring in outside space for residents at Ruby Mews was paramount, providing either a private garden or terrace for summer gatherings, or a spacious balcony.

Ruby Mews have been developed as part of a larger restoration of Hornsey Town Hall in which community has been a major focal point; creating a place where residents can live, work, and socialise. There will be a mixture of cafes, restaurants, a rooftop bar, Dao by Dorsett hotel and event spaces for all to enjoy. The leafy suburbs of Crouch End and its close proximity to Central London creates a village community feel ideal for professionals, downsizers and families alike.

Prices for the apartments at Ruby Mews start from £494,950 for a one-bedroom and £698,950 for a two-bedroom. To book a viewing, please contact Patrizia, Senior Sales Advisor on 07972 000 253, or alternatively, email the team at info@hornsey-townhall.co.uk.