Since its foundation in 1700, Bond Street has been the playground of society’s wealthiest most stylish and influential people. Past residents of the street include Admiral Horatio Nelson and Lady Emma Hamilton as well as a number of renowned authors and poets. Today, more than 300 years on, Bond Street remains a much-loved destination for celebrities, socialites and the international jet set.

‘Bond Street’s world class public realm and distinctive buildings, together with its mix of internationally renowned jewellers, fashion powerhouses and critically acclaimed galleries has cemented its position as the most sought-after destination for luxury brands looking to locate their global flagships,’ says Dan Johnson, director of placemaking, New West End Company.

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Linking Piccadilly in the south to Oxford Street in the north, Bond Street has been popular for retail since the 18th Century, being the home of many fashion outlets that sell prestigious or expensive items. The southern section is Old Bond Street and the longer northern section New Bond Street, the latter of which is the world’s third most expensive shopping street by store rents according to the  Main Streets Across the World report from Cushman & Wakefield. First place is Causeway Bay in Hong Kong, with Upper Fifth Avenue (49th-60th Street) second in the rankings.

Bond Street has recently welcomed a new Town Square, creating a brand new space for pedestrians to visit and relax in. It is part of the kilometre-long transformation scheme, which has increased space for pedestrians by 65 per cent, creating a relaxing environment to enjoy the high end retail, galleries and architecture.  The town square is also the home of the newly relocated sculpture Horse and Rider 1974, created by the acclaimed Sculptor and Royal Academician Dame Elisabeth Frink. The sculpture was restored and relocated to the corner of New Bond Street and Burlington Gardens, as part of the £10 million upgrade.

‘Since the public realm scheme began in April 2017, Bond Street has seen an unprecedented level of investment, with £50 million invested through 10 new brand openings and seven major store refurbishments, as brands look to Bond Street as their new home. This includes openings by Chloe, Stella McCartney, Hublo, Alaia and Pomellato. In addition, Loewe, Givenchy and Tasaki are set to open before the end of the year. Richard Mille has acquired the former Alexander McQueen shop on Old Bond Street and A. Lange & Söhne and Michael Kors are due to open along the street soon. In 2019 the new Alexander McQueen flagship will open and Herno will debut on the street,’ reveals Johnson.

Bond Street continues to evolve and attract top brands from across the world. Next year the opening of the Elizabeth line will increase entries and exits from Bond Street station by a projected 74 per cent, and by 2021 there will be 69.3 million entries and exits at Bond Street station, making it one of London’s most popular transport hubs. For the first time too, there will be a direct entrance onto Bond Street through a newly created arcade from Hanover Square. The high quality public realm has been completed in time to welcome these visitors and will ensure the street maintains its global status as a world-class luxury shopping destination.

Photography: Publica