Cambium, Southfields property prices: Leafy London townhouses draw buyers south

Most new homes are built on derelict sites or demolished office blocks, but Cambium in south west London has stronger roots than that. Named after the fine rings of tissue that form around a tree over time, the scheme is centred around a 200-year-old oak in Southfields that’s believed to have been planted by legendary landscape architect Capability Brown. Also known as “England’s greatest gardener” he designed over 170 parks including the grounds at Blenheim Palace, Warwick Castle and parts of Kew Gardens. 

 

Developer Lendlease has taken a leaf out of his book by building 55 townhouses and 55 apartments around a green space, hoping its suburban approach will sprout new life in this often-overlooked patch in Zone Three. Buyers will be able to choose from three different styles of townhouse, which comes with three, four or five bedrooms spread over three or four floors. All have a private rear or rooftop garden with an off-road parking space or garage, too, while the one, two and three bedroom apartments come with a private terrace or balcony. 

 

 

Leadlease, which is also developing sites in Stratford’s Olympic Park and Elephant & Castle, is know for its sustainable living ideals and the homes at Cambium are no different. All living spaces are lit using energy-efficient LED bulbs, the townhouses are kitted out with air source heat pumps, and extensive water-saving technology can be found throughout the development – even the roof water runs straight into planters to keep the vegetation hydrated. 

 

 

Over 30 new trees have been planted on the site, part of an effort to ensure the homes “make the most of their striking surroundings”, according to Richard Cook at Lendlease. “We were determined to retain the 200-year-old oak tree and have staggered the houses around it.” It’s also banking on the fact families will want to be in the catchment area of three “Outstanding” schools with links into the City via the District Line. 

 

The sales team were fully booked at the Putney Rowing Club launch event last week, selling apartments from £440,000 and townhouses from £1.14m.