On 15 June one of London’s most iconic buildings went on sale at The OWO Residences by Raffles, Europe’s first Raffles branded residences. Offering a rare opportunity to purchase a piece of Winston Churchill’s legacy, 85 homes are available in the impressive Grade II* listed the former Old War Office building, which has been closed to the public for over a century.
Having undergone a monumental and painstaking 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, a collection of nine restaurants and bars, and an immersive spa.
Situated at one of London’s most historically important and powerful 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.
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.
At the helm of The OWO project is the Hinduja Group, an international multi-billion turnover group founded in 1914 and passionately committed to the building since its acquisition in 2014. It 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 Hinduja Group has partnered with world-renowned Raffles Hotels & Resorts, who will be operating the 125- room and suite flagship hotel at The OWO, as well as the 85 branded residences. The service synonymous with the prestigious Raffles brand - gracious and intuitive staff, personalised attention and a timeless ambience - will be delivered seamlessly to the residents of The OWO and will set a new benchmark in London. Prices for a two-bedroom residence start from £5.8million.
Gopichand P Hinduja, Co-Chairman, Hinduja Group said, "Launching sales of these extraordinary residences is a significant milestone for us as a family and for the project team at The OWO - it’s one step closer to opening the storied building to the public for the first time where branded residences will sit alongside a flagship Raffles hotel. London is one of the best cities in the world, steeped in history and tradition, and has been our home for over forty 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.
Charlie Walsh, Head of Residential Sales at The OWO said, “The OWO Residences by Raffles in the heart of London represent an incomparable opportunity for buyers seeking something more than a traditional branded residence. This is a turnkey lifestyle within a new world-class culinary destination not yet experienced in the UK, set within a building of remarkable eminence.“
