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Lateral Living: Creative Class Embraces Mansion Blocks

architecture-design · 2026-08-18

Once dismissed as sensible and fuddy-duddy, mansion blocks are now attracting a cohort of cool creatives, who are drawn to their high design aesthetics, spaciousness, and a sense of the past. These buildings, typically found in London and other UK cities, offer generous proportions and period details that appeal to those seeking an alternative to modern developments. The trend reflects a broader shift in housing preferences, where character and history are valued over newness. The article, published by the Financial Times, explores this phenomenon, highlighting how these properties are being reimagined as desirable residences for a new generation of buyers.

Key facts

  • Mansion blocks were once derided as sensible and fuddy-duddy.
  • They are now attracting cool creatives.
  • Appeal factors include high design aesthetics, spaciousness, and a sense of the past.
  • The trend is covered by the Financial Times.
  • The article discusses the shift in perception of mansion blocks.
  • The focus is on lateral living in these buildings.
  • The properties are typically found in London and other UK cities.
  • The trend reflects a broader shift in housing preferences.

Entities

Institutions

  • Financial Times

Locations

  • London
  • United Kingdom

Sources