Early History and Development (19th Century)

Kinnerton Street, like much of Belgravia, was developed during the 1820s and 1830s under the vision of Thomas Cubitt, the renowned master builder. The development was spearheaded by the Grosvenor family, primarily under Richard Grosvenor, the 2nd Marquess of Westminster.

The street was originally designed as a mews, primarily serving the larger and more opulent houses in the adjacent streets such as Belgrave Square and Wilton Crescent. The mews housed stables for horses, carriages, and staff quarters for the grand mansions of the aristocracy. Kinnerton Street’s proximity to these stately homes made it a critical part of the infrastructure for Belgravia’s UHNW residents during the Victorian era.

Shift in Purpose (Early 20th Century)

By the early 20th century, the function of Kinnerton Street began to change, as the need for horse-drawn carriages declined with the rise of motor vehicles. Many of the mews houses transitioned from stables to garages for cars, while others became workshops or were converted into smaller homes. This period also marked the start of the street’s transformation into a more residential and commercial area, as the staff-dependent lifestyle of the 19th century diminished.

During this time, many of the properties along Kinnerton Street started to attract residents looking for smaller, more private spaces with character. Mews houses, once considered functional and utilitarian, began to gain popularity for their quaint charm and central location.

A Reflection of Belgravia’s Legacy

Kinnerton Street embodies the evolution of Belgravia from a functional and aristocratic enclave into one of the world’s most desirable addresses. Its transition from stables to luxury residences mirrors the broader development of Central London, where historic charm meets modern luxury. Quintessentially Estates, with its global presence, plays a role in continuing this legacy, serving a discerning clientele who value both the historic prestige and contemporary lifestyle that Kinnerton Street offers.