New "Cityhouses" launch in Kensington: split-level townhouses for sale near Olympia with Harrods-run concierge service and on-site primary school

Kensington heaves with seriously rich people and has London's highest proportion of second homes. Yet families on middling budgets also put down roots here, while globe trotters settle for a few years.

A new terrace of "Cityhouses", split-level homes with their own front door facing the street — will appeal to the borough's diverse population. The homes are part of Kensington Row, a big scheme near Olympia that is bringing a sense of place to a busy junction once dominated by ugly office buildings.

Developer St Edward is building more than 1,000 larger-than-average flats across seven buildings around landscaped courtyards and formal garden squares. It is an "open" development with public spaces plus an on-site primary school. Fourteen Cityhouses, from 1,022sq ft to 2,013sq ft, cost from £1,575,000.

The design is a reinterpretation of a traditional London townhouse, according to architect Squire and Partners. Bedrooms, on the lowerground floor, open on to a private sunken garden. The open-plan upper floor has a glass staircase, while floor-to-ceiling glazing promotes views across communal gardens.

Residents are being offered all the usual lifestyle facilities that come with this type of high-end scheme: the service charge covers a luxury spa, business centre, private cinema and a Harrods-run concierge service. Call 020 3411 3579 for more.