In 2017, Formula 1 superstar Lewis Hamilton made headlines with his purchase of an opulent mansion in the exclusive Kensington neighborhood of West London.
Acquired for a staggering £18 million, this 4-story mansion is not just a testament to Hamilton’s success but also a piece of London’s rich architectural heritage.
Built in 1860 by the renowned builder Samuel Johns, the property retains much of its original charm and features, blending historical elegance with modern luxury.
Impressive Features
The mansion, previously owned by Burberry’s chief designer Christopher Bailey and actor Simon Woods, boasts six spacious bedrooms, four grand reception rooms, and two luxurious bathrooms.
A highlight of the property is the expansive kitchen and dining area, designed to cater to both intimate family meals and larger gatherings.
Outside, the property is equally impressive, featuring a 200-foot green garden complete with a summer house, providing a serene escape in the heart of London.
Hamilton’s Luxurious Property Ventures
In addition to his Kensington residence, Hamilton also made headlines by selling a prestigious Tribeca triplex in New York City for $69 million in late 2021, marking a substantial $8 million profit from his initial 2017 purchase.
This diverse real estate portfolio showcases his refined taste for high-end properties and his savvy investment skills in prime real estate markets.
Controversies
While the mansion itself is a marvel, its ownership by Hamilton has not been without controversy.
The racing champion has faced significant backlash from local residents over various renovations and modifications he has made to the property.
One notable incident involved Hamilton being granted permission to remove a sugarplum tree that was under a Tree Preservation Order, despite strong objections from the community.
Hamilton’s tree expert deemed the tree to be 80% dead, leading to its removal and replacement with an apple blossom cherry tree.
Additionally, Hamilton’s plans to demolish and reconstruct the aged summer house in the rear garden have sparked further disputes.
Despite these controversies, Hamilton’s Kensington home remains one of his primary residences, though he divides his time among other properties in Monaco, Geneva, New York, and Colorado.
Neighbors’ Reactions
Hamilton’s neighbors have strongly objected to his planned renovations to the Kensington mansion.
Residents have expressed frustration over what they see as unnecessary and disruptive changes to the historic property.
Complaints have included the noise and pollution from construction work, as well as concerns about the environmental impact of removing trees.
Some neighbors have also criticized Hamilton for not spending enough time at the property, accusing him of increasing his carbon footprint by making modifications that destroy nature.
Although some locals supported certain changes, like pruning a horse chestnut tree, the majority have expressed tension and dissatisfaction.
More Photos of the Home
The living room displays a cozy ambiance with a plush couch facing a modern fireplace under a distinctive painting, nestled between built-in bookshelves.
In the spacious bedroom, natural light floods through large windows, accentuating a comfortable bed and a relaxed seating area.
A rustic yet elegant kitchen features a large central island with built-in shelves and stools, complemented by white cabinetry and a professional-grade stove.
The extended view of the kitchen reveals a seamless transition into a dining area, where a large table under stylish lighting accommodates family gatherings.
Featuring polished wooden floors and a luxurious bathtub, the bathroom combines classic design elements with modern comforts, complete with a gold-framed mirror and decorative plant.
