London homes of John Lewis: A Decline in Aesthetic Appeal
In Ealing, West London, the approval of new housing developments by John Lewis Partnership has sparked debate over the impact of large retailers on urban design. The development, consisting of over 400 build-to-rent apartments and a modernized Waitrose store, is poised to contribute to London's economy by providing new housing stock [1].
Despite this, 96% of local residents voted against the newbuilds, claiming they are "outrageously oversized" and will "destroy West Ealing." Critics argue that John Lewis-designed homes risk promoting a standardized design language, similar to other global retailers. This is due to their aim to appeal to a broad market, which may lead to a homogenization of urban environments [2][4][5].
While John Lewis is renowned for its reliability, traditional roots, and high quality, its design aesthetic might lack distinctiveness or local character [5]. The concern is that these developments, reminiscent of John Lewis stores, could further a trend towards homogenized urban spaces observed in cities worldwide [5].
Moreover, the internet and multinational companies facilitate the spreading of similar design trends across various establishments, including cafes, restaurants, and homes, potentially diluting unique local identities [5].
John Lewis has yet to reveal its design plans for the new apartments. However, they are flattered by the comparison to an avuncular figure, but insist their homes will be more stylish and on-trend than expected [5]. The debate serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of having global retailers actively involved in urban development.
[1] https://www.johnlewis.com/about-john-lewis/yorkshire-news-h468001[2] https://www.sustainablewharfedale.org/index.php?id=3462[3] https://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/news/west-london-news/ewington-homeowners-blast-govt-decision-14181478[4] https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20190624-how-to-build-cities-to-combat-climate-change[5] https://www.cityam.com/john-lewis-homes-will-be-stylish-and-on-trend-developer-vows-to-avenue-side-schemes-promise-41122685
- The debate over the John Lewis Partnership's housing development in Ealing, West London, extends beyond the economy, as critics express concerns about the potential impact on the local property market, lifestyle, fashion-and-beauty, and home-and-garden sectors, fearing homogenization of urban environments due to a standardized design language.
- The proposed John Lewis-designed homes, if they maintain a similar aesthetic to their stores, could influence the property market in a way that dilutes unique local identities, not just in West Ealing, but potentially across cities worldwide, as design trends spread via the internet and multinational companies.
