One Blackfriars, Bankside, SE1

The bulging midriff that gives One Blackfriars its distinctive silhouette is more than just an architectural quirk. The exterior of “The Vase” - as it has become known - contains no flat surfaces and is designed to give residents the best views of the London cityscape as possible. The 170 metre-high tower is one of London’s prime viewing platforms, a dream walk-to-work address and a beacon of urban luxury – all rolled into one. Indoor gardens, a private gym and a 20 metre swimming pool are all kept in immaculate running order by that Rolls Royce of concierge services Harrods Estates.

Inside, there are 274 apartments of stunning quality and elegance that epitomise everything that modern, design-led luxury has come to signify. Fittingly, all the homes take direct inspiration from their immediate Bankside neighbour, the Tate Modern Museum which is part of the thriving social and cultural landscape that has made this part of London so successful. At ground level, the area which is directly opposite the iconic landmarks of the City of London, is home to an eclectic choice of restaurants and cafes and is also the site of the historic Globe Theatre that was immortalised by our greatest playwright, William Shakespeare.

As a structure, Blackfriars Station is as eye-catching as some of the skyscrapers that line this particular part of the Thames. It provides fast links to the Farringdon Crossrail interchange for express trains to Canary Wharf and Heathrow Airport. St Pancras Eurostar, Luton Airport and Gatwick Airport are also on the same network. The District and Circle Line Tube lines run services to both the City and West End.