To begin this course we will beginning by examining where was the Grenfell Tower. Actually few people realise that Grenfell is surrounded by some of the most expensive real estate on London. Hence the title of this section: A tale of two Kensingtons.
Although much information about Grenfell focuses on the fire itself, it is important to remember that the story of Grenfell extends beyond that tragic night. Life flourished before the disaster and continues in its aftermath.
Grenfell is in the Royal Borough of Kensington – a historic district of West London known for its grand architecture, prestigious residences, and significant cultural institutions, including the Royal Parks and museums like the Natural History Museum. It is home to Kensington Palace and is a hub for luxury living, however has Kensington has two sides.
South Kensington represents the borough’s prestigious face. Here, Victorian terraces and garden squares command prices exceeding £2 million, with luxury homes often costing £3-5 million. The area attracts wealthy international residents working in finance, law, and consulting. World-renowned institutions like the Victoria and Albert Museum, Natural History Museum, and Imperial College reinforce its cultural prestige, while high-end boutiques and expensive restaurants cater to affluent residents. Cross the Westway northward, and the landscape transforms dramatically.
North Kensington, including Ladbroke Grove and Notting Dale, tells a different story. While property prices around £700,000-900,000 remain high nationally, much of the housing consists of social housing estates. The tragic Grenfell Tower fire in 2017 highlighted the area’s challenges, symbolizing the struggles of communities living in overcrowded conditions with limited opportunities.