Where would you want to set up your business? If it’s in central London then the more prestigious the better, if you can afford it. And many businesses certainly seem able to; The Shard just broke records for rent in London.
The financial IT company, Leonteq has taken up a floor in The Shard to move its entire workforce from the West End. Paying £90 per sq feet for the offices on the 26th floor of the iconic building it has broken all previous records for rent in the capital. The Shard, according to the Financial Times, now has just 30% of of unoccupied office space. There are only five complete floors remaining,
With media firms, finance, professional services companies, consultants along with marketers, educators and technology companies, The Shard is now home to a vibrant business community. It’s also in the heart of The City so has access to major international firms from the finance to the technology sector on the doorstep.
While the rent might seem steep for The City, in fact it’s a good move from the West End. Office is in short supply there and rent is much higher, meaning Leonteq has made a good move in heading to a prestigious address.
With thousands of people working in The City the area has become a bustling one and a great place to stay. For temporary extended stay accommodation for those who are relocating to a job in the neighbourhood, or have a contract to fulfill and want somewhere to live, The City might not seem like the first choice for a place to live but actually it’s a vibrant place. With riverside walks and views across The Thames it’s a strikingly beautiful place. Mix that with tourist hot spots like the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, London Bridge and St Paul’s Cathedral there is plenty to see and do. Just across the river is Borough Market, the famous Southbank, Shakespeare’s Globe and Southwark cathedral. To the north is the Barbican, the Museum of London and Whitechapel. With great pubs, cafes and restaurants there is plenty to choose from on the lifestyle front.
Clarendon has serviced apartments in Canary Wharf, City Tower Bridge and Bishopsgate, all of which are close to The City. With luxury serviced apartments in studio, one and two bedrooms they offer plenty of space for those looking to stay in the capital. Centrally located each are close to tube stations and offer fully fitted kitchens, open plan living spaces, en-suite and master bedrooms. There is security and entertainment, with WiFi and broadband.
The growing popularity of The Shard is another sign that The City is becoming an increasingly desirable place to both live and work.