85 homes are available in the impressive Grade II listed former Old War Office building, which has been closed to the public for over a century. Having undergone a monumental transformation over the last five years, the London landmark is set to complete in 2022 and will also comprise the capital’s first Raffles hotel with 125-rooms and suites, 9 restaurants and bars, and a spa.
At the helm of The OWO project is the Hinduja Group, which has been passionately committed to the building since its acquisition in 2014. The Group has worked with a team of experts including Historic England and Museum of London Archaeology, and appointed EPR Architects to oversee the intricate redevelopment. The hotel interiors are being designed by New York-based designer Thierry Despont. The world-renowned Raffles Hotels & Resorts will be operating the 125-room and suite flagship hotel at The OWO, as well as the 85 branded residences.
Garnering respect on a global stage, the iconic building was created as a mark of empirical British power. Grand in both size and stature, with ceiling heights in residences that reach up to 4.4m and full-length windows to match, the interior proportions reflect classic Edwardian architecture that has been adapted for modern living. The residences feature interiors created by design studio 1508 London with bespoke handcrafted kitchens from British brand Smallbone of Devizes, Waterworks brass ironmongery and Onyx marble. Many incorporate original heritage features such as oak panelling and mosaic flooring. The unwavering attention to detail in each residence demonstrates the years of craftsmanship that have been applied to every aspect of the majestic building.
Each residence is unique and specifically tailored to suit its location in the building; duplex, lateral and penthouse residences range in size from studios to five-beds. In addition, two spectacular turret residences, elevated above the London skyline, offer a home like no other. In this unparalleled residential offering, homeowners will benefit from having all the facilities of a world-renowned hotel on their doorstep without having to compromise on the highest levels of privacy and seclusion within their home. This complex balance has been achieved thanks to the building’s majestic original architecture which lends itself perfectly to a mixed-use development of this stature.
Situated at one of London’s most historically important addresses, the Old War Office, originally completed in 1906 and designed by British architect William Young, is steeped in history. Formerly the site of the original Palace of Whitehall, home to Henry VIII and other monarchs, the building has witnessed world-shaping events whilst influential political and military leaders including Winston Churchill and David Lloyd George held office. It was John Profumo’s base when he was Secretary of State and inspired Ian Fleming to write the James Bond series after working for Britain’s Naval Intelligence Service. Its grand architecture has made the building a dramatic location in Bond films, and more recently The Crown drama series.
The OWO directly faces Horse Guards and is adjacent to the stunning 57-acres of St. James’s Park. Residents, hotel guests and visitors will be a short stroll from Buckingham Palace, The National Gallery, The Tate, and The Royal Academy, as well as the shopping streets of Regents Street, Bond Street and Jermyn Street. Sales are via Knight Frank and Strutt & Parker. Prices for a two-bedroom residence start from £5.8million.
London is one of the best cities in the world, steeped in history and tradition, and has been our home for over 40 years. With our knowledge and experience in restoration of historic buildings, everything we do, and every decision made on The OWO is underscored by our passion and respect for the heritage of the building and long-term commitment to London
Gopichand P Hinduja, Co-Chairman, Hinduja Group
