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Prime Central London (PCL) has always been an attractive location for investors seeking a safe haven for their money. The UK's capital city is home to some of the world's most prestigious neighborhoods, including Mayfair, Knightsbridge, and Belgravia. Property values in these areas have historically increased at a steady pace, and the high demand for residential real estate has made them an excellent investment opportunity for those with the financial means to buy.

However, the recent pandemic has had a significant impact on the property market in London, and many investors are now seeking alternative ways to capitalize on their investments. One strategy that has been gaining in popularity is buying properties in need of major refurbishment and benefiting from the increase in value that the renovation creates.

There are several reasons why investors are turning to this strategy. Firstly, buying a property in need of renovation is often relatively cheaper than purchasing a ready-to-move-in property. This means that investors can get a foot in the door of the PCL property market for a lower entry cost, making it more accessible to a broader range of investors.

Secondly, refurbishing a property can add significant value to it. By upgrading the property's fixtures, fittings, and overall appearance, investors can increase the property's worth significantly, making it an attractive option for buyers or renters looking for a high-quality, well-maintained home.

Thirdly, the demand for refurbished properties in PCL remains high, as many buyers are seeking a property that has been recently renovated to a high standard. Therefore, investors who refurbish their properties to a high standard can expect to see a significant uptake on their initial investment.

Nonetheless, investors should also consider the costs involved in refurbishing a property. This includes the cost of materials, labor, and any necessary permits or licenses. It is crucial to have a detailed budget in place to ensure that the investment remains profitable and does not lead to financial difficulties.

At Fractal we assist you throughout your investment journey by identifying properties with great renovation potential, setting up efficient structures to hold the investment; handling design, renovation and furnishing and managing the property to ensure investors receive the highest possible yield for the investment.

Reach out to a Fractal expert to learn more 

Residential property in PCL: Opportunities for refurbishments

 is an expert in architecture and interior design, and the founder of Blanca Milani Ltd. Based in London, she has nearly a decade of experience in home renovations and office refurbishments. Her passion for timeless decors and impeccable attention to detail is evident in every project she undertakes. Blanca's unique perspective as an architect and interior designer allows her to balance aesthetics with functionality, creating spaces that are both beautiful and practical.

I believe there are many definitions of interior design. In my view, interior design is not just about decorating a space but creating an environment that represents the client’s personality and evokes a certain feeling in those who inhabit its spaces. Since much of my work in London involves house refurbishments, I believe that interior design and architecture have to be in a constant dialogue. The existing architecture of the house is a crucial factor in interior design, as it shapes the overall appearance and functionality of a home.

The goal of Fractal Homes is to design interiors that serve as backdrops to enhance the user’s experience, while allowing them to add their own personal touch. Fractal aims to create open and bright spaces that are contemporary and inviting.

In my opinion, it is essential for a house to reflect the personality of its owner while also complementing the surrounding environment. For me, the process of decorating a home is more about identifying its unique needs rather than simply following trends.

Looking ahead, there is a growing movement towards utilizing eco-friendly materials in interior design. The market now offers an impressive variety of textures that can rival natural materials. Additionally, I see that reusing antiques is a way to combat climate change. Luckily in England there is a long tradition of using antiques in interior design. The high value placed on antiques makes it easy to find real treasures. Refurbishing and incorporating these items into a home is a practice that is gaining popularity among younger designers. There is also a renewed appreciation for craftsmanship, with people gravitating towards small-scale production, which has a positive impact on the environment too.

In terms of design trends, interior designers and architects are increasingly collaborating with furniture and houseware brands. This allows the designers to ensure that every detail of the house is completed with a cohesive narrative.

I like to start the projects by taking the client’s brief and studying the intended use of each space. First, I consider the circulation flow to ensure that the main paths around the house are comfortable to walk and I question how the space can support the needs of the user whilst walking around the house. This helps me understand the type of joinery and furniture required and aids the setup of each room. Additionally, I prioritize storage as an important aspect of design aiming to anticipate the user’s needs and provide appropriate storage solutions in every room.

The use of the rooms is unique to each user and subject to constant change. Therefore, it is essential for me to consider the family structure or individual needs of those who will be inhabiting the house before embarking on the design process. Designing a pied-a-terre for a single professional differs greatly from designing a family home for a couple with young children.

There is an increased request from clients to have multi-functional rooms at home. With more people living abroad, it’s become essential to have a guest room that can serve another purpose when not being used by visitors. Furthermore, due to the rise of working from home during the pandemic, there has been a surge in requests for small home offices that can be practical and discreetly tucked away in any corner of the house. It’s now vital to keep in mind that every home should have at least one space designated as a home office.

In situations where the space is limited and a separate room is not an option, it can be challenging to keep a home office tidy. As a designer, I must be creative and think of design solutions to conceal clutter while not working.


Nowadays, the true luxury lies in having ample space. To achieve this, bespoke joinery is important to cleverly hide clutter and suitably furnish the rooms to their purpose. The use of colour is also crucial in creating the desired atmosphere; warm inviting colors like dark hues for a relaxing room or happy light colors for the bathroom to enhance the natural light. In bedrooms, I prefer to keep design simple and tidy, concealing wardrobes as much as possible.

Having a larger room does not necessarily mean it will feel more spacious. It is more important to consider the use of the room and size it accordingly. For instance, a cozy library is ideal for escaping the winter chill, maybe connected through double doors to a reception room to create two separate spaces instead of a large cold room. Additionally, in London where natural light is scarce, I pay close attention to decorating and furnishing to ensure they complement and integrate the outdoor surroundings and natural light.

Warm media room designed by Commune design | Link 

Cozy bedroom designed by Beata Heuman | Link 

When I approach design, I like to empathize with the user and envision how they will utilize the space. I often ask practical questions to the client such as where they typically leave their keys or if they request guests to remove their shoes by the entrance. As the design comes together, accessorizing becomes essential to complete the scheme. This involves selecting mirrors, small furniture pieces, table lamps, hooks and other decorative items to support the functionality of the house. These playful elements can bring character to a room, whether it’s adding a touch of fun to a formal sitting room or incorporating a vintage mirror to give weight to a cloakroom. While it may be tempting to overlook this final decorating stage, I believe it is a crucial aspect of the design process and can have a significant impact on the overall aesthetic of the house, just as important as selecting the right wallpapering or window frame.

Example of functional and tasteful furnishing | Link 

For me, luxury design involves meticulous attention to detail. The house should provide a comfortable and happy environment for the user in the background. Every nook should be taken into consideration to ensure that the user has the necessary support.

I believe that storage is of utmost importance in today’s society, where everyone has a lot of possessions and the price of the floor space is constantly increasing. Designers must be imaginative in finding space for storage where there is none, and integrate it seamlessly into the overall design of the house. Luxury, to me, is finding the right balance between quality design and practicality.”


At Fractal Homes, we create exceptional living spaces that inspire, delight, and exceed expectations. We hope that Blanca's insights have given you a better understanding of the interior design process and how it can elevate the overall experience of living in a home. If you need advice from an expert, reach out to Blanca via email at 

Fractal homes × Blanca Milani

The real estate rental market in prime central London, specifically in The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, has experienced significant changes over the past few years. In 2020, the market experienced a slowdown due to the Covid-19 pandemic, but as the UK vaccination program progressed, the market started to show signs of recovery, with rental prices rising and demand increasing.

According to recent reports, there has been a surge in demand for rental properties in prime central London, especially in the Royal Borough. This can be attributed to several factors, including the fact that more people are choosing to rent rather than buy, as well as the influx of international students and expats who are looking for high-end rental properties in the area.

At the same time, the supply of rental properties in prime central London has decreased, with many landlords choosing to sell their properties due to the pandemic-induced economic uncertainty. This has resulted in a shortage of available rental properties, which has pushed up rental prices, making it an excellent time for investors to enter the market.

Investors can increase their potential returns in the prime central London rental market by buying properties that are in need of renovation. By purchasing a property that requires refurbishment, investors may be able to acquire it at a lower price than a fully renovated property, which can increase the potential return on investment.

Once the property has been refurbished, it is likely to attract higher rental rates, as tenants will be willing to pay more for a modern and well-maintained property in a desirable location. This means that not only can the value of the property increase significantly, but the rental yield can also increase, providing a strong return on investment.

The key to success in this market is to purchase a property in a prime location that is in high demand, which can ensure a steady stream of tenants and rental income.

The prime central London rental market

The London property market has been a popular topic of discussion for many years, with people wanting to know whether it is a good time to buy a second home in the city.

We will take a closer look at the current state of the London property market and provide some insight into whether it is the right time to invest in a second home.

The London property market is one of the most competitive in the world. Over the years, the city has become a hub for global business and finance, attracting people from all over the world who are looking for a place to live and work. As a result, property prices in London have continued to rise, with demand far outstripping supply. However, recent years have seen a slowdown in the London property market, due in part to political uncertainty surrounding Brexit and the Covid-19 pandemic. According to data from Savills, a leading global real estate service provider, the average house price in London is expected to decrease by 2.0% in 2023 .

That being said, it is important to note that the London property market has historically shown resilience and has rebounded from dips in the past. Therefore, while there may be some short-term fluctuations in prices, prime real estate in London may continue to hold its value over the long term.

Is it the right time to buy a second home in London?

Whether it is the right time to buy a second home in London depends on a variety of factors, including your financial situation, your goals, and your long-term plans.

 Buying a second home in London is likely to be a significant investment, and one that requires careful consideration of your financial situation. It is important to have a clear understanding of your budget, and to ensure that you can afford the additional expenses associated with owning a second property, such as stamp duty, maintenance costs, and property management fees.

Before buying a second home in London, it is important to think about your goals. Are you looking for a holiday home, or are you planning to rent out the property for income?

Fractal is the clever way of combining investment with lifestyle goals. Co-invest in prime London properties, earn rental income and enjoy personal stays.


Reach out to a Fractal expert to learn more 

The London property market

Co-ownership can be a great way to share the cost of a property and divide responsibilities among co-owners. However, co-ownership also comes with legal obligations and responsibilities that all co-owners should be aware of.

Here are some of the legal aspects of co-ownership that you need to know:

: It is essential to have a written co-ownership agreement that outlines the responsibilities and obligations of each co-owner. This agreement should cover issues such as how expenses will be divided, how decisions will be made, and what happens if one co-owner wants to sell their share.

: Each co-owner has specific rights and responsibilities when it comes to the property. These may include the right to occupy the property, the responsibility to contribute to maintenance costs, and the obligation to obtain consent from other co-owners before making substantial changes to the property.

: If one co-owner wants to sell their share of the property, they may do so, but the other co-owners have the right of first refusal. This means that they have the right to purchase the share before it can be sold to anyone else.

: Co-ownership disputes can arise for a variety of reasons, including disagreements over property usage, maintenance, or sale.

Fractal acts as an administrator to protect the rights and obligations of all co-owners. The Fractal operating agreements are designed to set out the rules that govern the responsibilities of each of the co-owners and how to handle disputes should they arise.

The legal aspects of co-ownership

Investing in a second home can be a smart financial move, but it's important to carefully consider your options and do your research before making any decisions.

– Before you invest in a second home, it's important to ask yourself the main reason for the purchase. Are you looking to generate rental income, build long-term wealth, or have a vacation home for personal use? Your goals will impact the type of property you should look for and how you approach the purchase.

– Before you invest in a second home, it's important to research the real estate market to understand the trends and potential for growth in the area where you're considering buying. Look at recent sales data, rental prices, and vacancy rates to determine if the market is strong and if it's a good time to buy.

– Buying a second property comes with a number of costs beyond the purchase price, such as property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and repairs. At Fractal, we offer you incredible luxury properties across London at a fraction of the cost, making you dream home now possible.

– Owning a second home can bring many benefits, but it's important to consider the potential hassles that come with it. From maintenance and repairs to rental management and security concerns, owning a second property can be a time-consuming and costly undertaking. At Fractal, we understand these challenges and offer a hassle-free solution for those looking to purchase a vacation home.

Remember, investing in a second property is a major financial decision, so it's important to carefully consider all factors before making a purchase. At Fractal we are at hand to assist in all your properties queries and give you the right information before you commit to a purchase.

Investing in a second home

Fractal offers dedicated workspaces in all their properties to enable efficient remote work. 

Here are ten suggestions to help you create the perfect home office:

– Pick a specific area that is solely used for work, preferably a quiet spot with plenty of natural light and good ventilation.

Invest in a good desk and chair – An ergonomically designed, comfortable desk and chair can boost productivity and reduce the risk of health issues.

Ensure a dependable internet connection – Verify that your home has a dependable internet connection to facilitate remote work and video conferencing.

Install sufficient lighting – Good lighting can reduce eye strain and headaches, as well as enhance productivity.

Consider soundproofing – If the workspace is susceptible to noise, consider soundproofing the area to reduce distractions.

Organize your workspace – Keep your workspace clutter-free and organized by setting up storage and filing systems.

Add plants – Plants can improve air quality and reduce stress, making your workspace more comfortable and productive.

Personalize your space – Incorporate personal touches, such as artwork or photos, to create a welcoming and comfortable work environment.

Utilize technology – Utilize technology to stay organized, keep track of tasks, and communicate with colleagues.

Establish boundaries – Establish boundaries with family and friends to ensure that you have uninterrupted work time, similar to what you would have in a conventional office setting.

The perfect home office

Selecting the ideal second home can be a daunting task, however Fractal can provide some useful tips to assist you in making the correct decision.

The first step is to determine your budget. It is crucial to establish your budget before embarking on your search to avoid overspending and to narrow down your options.

Next, you need to determine the purpose of the property. Do you want a vacation home, an investment property, or a rental property? Identifying the purpose of the property can help you decide on the location, type, and size of the property.

Location is another critical factor to consider when selecting a second home. You need to consider the local amenities and attractions, and the current state of the local real estate market.

Choosing the type of property you want is also essential. At Fractal, we offer a range of properties in the heart of London, from 

two-bedroom apartments in South Kensington

ingle-family homes in High Street Kensington

. The size, style, and layout of the property should be taken into account when making a selection.

Owning a second home can have financial implications, such as property and council taxes, insurance, maintenance costs, and rental income. It's crucial to consider these factors before making a decision, and Fractal Homes can assist you in navigating these issues.

Ultimately, taking the time to thoroughly consider your budget, the purpose of the property, location, type of property, market conditions, and financial implications will assist you in choosing the ideal second home.

Get in touch with one of our Fractal experts, we can provide you with valuable insights into the local market and help you find properties that fit your requirements and budget.

How to choose the right second home?

You just got your second home in London and you wonder what to do with your family?

London is a city full of attractions for children of all ages. From world-famous museums and galleries, to outdoor activities and entertainment, there is something for everyone in the UK's capital. For those looking for a more educational experience, there are numerous historical sites, educational exhibitions and activities that will keep your kids engaged.

And if you're looking for something more exciting and fun, there are plenty of theme parks, zoos, and attractions to choose from. Whatever you choose, you're sure to have a great time with your kids in London!

Here a list of some of our favorite family activities:

 – With its iconic dinosaur skeleton and interactive exhibitions, this museum is sure to be a hit with kids of all ages.

 – Home to more than 750 species of animals, the London Zoo is a great way to educate your children about wildlife and nature.

 – Take a guided tour of the Queen's official residence and witness the changing of the guard ceremony.

 – Enjoy spectacular views of London from the river and spot some famous landmarks along the way.

 – With over 55 rides and attractions, Legoland is the perfect place for a fun-filled family day out.

 – Get up close and personal with thousands of sea creatures in this amazing aquarium.

 – Enjoy spectacular views of the city from the world’s tallest Ferris wheel and then catch a show at the nearby London Eye theatre.

 – Take a tour of this 900-year-old castle and learn about its rich history.

Family activities in London

Yes, it is possible for a group of friends to purchase a property together. Pooling finances with friends can make owning a home more affordable and can also enable friends to buy a larger and nicer home that may be out of reach for each individual.

However, buying a house with friends involves more complex logistics than buying as an individual or couple. There are several options for financing a home with multiple buyers, including traditional lenders or forming a limited company to purchase the property.

Managing ongoing expenses and splitting time amongst members of the group can be challenging aspects of owning a home with friends. It is important to have a clear agreement in place to avoid disputes in the future. This may involve working with a real estate lawyer to draft an operating agreement with provisions around buyouts, paying for repairs and utilities, and entitlement to usage time.

Fractal can also help manage the complexities of co-ownership, from taxes to insurance to managing rentals. Overall, buying a house with friends can be a viable option, but it requires careful planning and communication to ensure a successful and positive experience for all involved.

For more about buying a fraction in a Fractal home, check out answers to some frequently asked questions 

Is it possible for a group of friends to purchase a vacation home together ?

Fractional ownership refers to the practice of sharing the expenses of a valuable asset with other individuals while still maintaining partial ownership and the right to use the asset.

Although the concept of fractional ownership may seem straightforward, there are advantages and disadvantages that make it more complex. Before entering into a fractional ownership agreement for a second home, there are several factors to consider.

Rental income generation:
A fractional ownership property has the potential to generate rental income through short-term or long-term rentals, owners will receive a portion of the rental income earned which will help reduce their share of the running costs of the property.

Minimising upkeep and maintenance:
Reducing the burden of upkeep and maintenance is a common benefit of fractional ownership agreements. These agreements typically provide for long-term property management, with owners collaborating to determine the best solutions for addressing any major problems that arise.

Usage rights:
Fractional ownership of second homes grants co-owners the usage rights to a portion of the property, unlike short-term vacation rentals. Essentially, you own a percentage of the property and have the right to use it for a specific period based on your ownership share.

Genuine ownership:
Fractional ownership differs from a timeshare in that it provides genuine ownership for a portion of the property, known as a fractional interest, resulting in true ownership rights. The value of the owner's share in the property fluctuates with the real estate market, meaning any change in value is divided equally among all fractional owners.

Limited financing options:
There are limited financing options available for fractional property ownership, as only a few banks offer mortgages for such purchases.

Less flexibility:
Although it's possible to have partial ownership in multiple properties located in different places, it requires a significant financial investment for each one. Unlike staying in a hotel or renting a property for a short period, fractional ownership might limit your travel options to just one or two favorite places.

Pros & Cons of fractional ownership

London is the perfect location for your second luxury home. With its iconic architecture, world-class culture and endless attractions, it's no wonder that London remains a top destination for luxury living. From the grandeur of Belgravia to the luxury of Knightsbridge and Chelsea, London offers a wealth of options for those looking to purchase a second home. Whether you want to be close to the hustle and bustle of the city or prefer a more relaxed lifestyle in the suburbs, London has something for everyone.

Chelsea is known to be one of London's most luxurious areas. It has a rich history and its streets are lined with chic boutiques and exclusive restaurants. It's the perfect place for a stroll, as well as for a spot of shopping or dining out. The area is home to some of the most beautiful parks in London, as well as galleries and theatres. Chelsea is definitely worth a visit, whether you want to take in the sights or indulge in a bit of luxury.
Have a look at 

London has something for everyone, with its diverse culture, excellent amenities and unbeatable location, it's no wonder that is one of the world's top destinations for luxury living.  

Other articles from our blog which you may find interesting:


Why choose Fractal over buying a vacation home independently?

London, the perfect location for your second luxury home

Owning a vacation home abroad is a dream for many, but the traditional process of purchasing one on your own can be a hassle. It requires coordinating with various contacts such as real estate agents and lawyers, and also taking on the role of property manager, including handling maintenance, scheduling cleanings, and dealing with other tasks. Fractal simplifies this process by providing a turnkey experience and acting as your in-destination expert and partner.
In addition of having the ability of buying your dream home at a fraction of it’s cost, these are top benefits of choosing Fractal over buying on your own:

Fractal takes care of all the management tasks, eliminating the need for you to become the property manager and deal with the stress and responsibilities that come with it. We provide a 24/7 concierge service, making the entire process stress-free and hassle-free.

When you buy a vacation home on your own, you are responsible for maintaining its condition, but Fractal takes care of that for you. We have a trusted team of service providers dedicated to keeping your home in top shape, so you can focus on enjoying your time there.

If you want to generate additional income, renting out your home when you are not using it is a great option. Fractal handles the rental process for you, listing your home on select platforms and handling the maintenance and upkeep.

Fractal offers a complete end-to-end solution, making the buying process turnkey and easy. From start to finish, we help you every step of the way, even after the purchase, so you can fully enjoy the Fractal experience in your new home.

Fractal and timeshares are different in several ways. In a traditional timeshare, you purchase the right to use a property for a set period of time each year, which is typically pre-determined and with limited flexibility for changes.

In contrast, with Fractal, you truly own a portion of a real estate asset, have more flexibility in booking the dates that work for you, and you have much more visibility should you want to sell your share in the future.

Additionally, unlike timeshares, which most often depreciate in value, Fractal allows you to keep any appreciation in value of the property over time.

Timeshares involve buying a time allocation, a specific week or weeks from a resort. This usually involves paying an upfront fee and then annual or monthly maintenance fees for the duration of the agreement.

Owners may also be required to pay additional fees for upgrades or exchange programs. Additionally, most timeshares come with deed restrictions that limit changes to the property, as well as restrictions on renting out or selling the unit.
The number of users in a single timeshare usually ranges between 26 to 52, depending on the length of stay.

Fractional ownership in real estate is when multiple people buy a property together, and then share the costs of ownership, such as taxes, maintenance and general upkeep.

This allows individuals to access and enjoy the benefits of high-end assets at a fraction of the cost of outright ownership.

Each co-owner is entitled to use, enjoy and profit from the entire property. The rights and responsibilities of each co-owner are set out in a written operating agreement that outlines how decisions will be made, how expenses will be divided and how profits will be shared. The agreement also typically sets out the process for selling or transferring ownership of the property. Co-ownership can be beneficial for those who are unable to purchase a property on their own, allowing them to share the financial burden and benefit from shared resources and responsibility.

At Fractal, we have completely re-thought the concept of fractional ownership, taking care of the hassles and complexities that come with a co-ownership structure so that you as an owner can only focus on enjoying your home.

Is Fractal a timeshare ?

We aim to equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about purchasing your second home.

Our blog provides new perspectives on the process of purchasing, selling, and managing the ideal getaway.

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Own your dream second home at a fraction of its cost

We aim to equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about purchasing your second home.Our blog provides new perspectives on the process of purchasing, selling, and managing the ideal getaway.

We aim to equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about purchasing your second home.
Our blog provides new perspectives on the process of purchasing, selling, and managing the ideal getaway.