PARTNERS IN PROPERTY: LUCIE SANTANDER
We had the pleasure of catching up again with Lucie Santander, Associate, Account Manager at Knight Frank.
Since our last conversation, Lucie has taken on new challenges within the New Homes team, working across some of London’s most prestigious developments. She shares her insights on market trends, the impact of quality interiors, and what’s next for Knight Frank’s New Homes division.
Hi Lucie! Since we last spoke, your role has grown significantly. Tell us about your journey at Knight Frank and what continues to excite you about working in New Homes.
Since we last spoke, I’ve had the opportunity to take on more responsibility, working across a wider range of developments and deepening relationships with both developers and purchasers. Something I really enjoy about working in New Homes is the variety, no two days are the same. One moment I’m advising clients on market strategy, and the next I’m on site wearing PPE and walking through a development under construction. I love seeing projects come to life, from the initial vision through to handing over the keys.
You’ve worked on some of London’s most high-profile residential developments. What have been some standout projects and what makes them so memorable?
Right now, I’m working with an investor at Holland Park Gate, a really prestigious development in High Street Kensington that’s so unique and full of character. I also love working with purchasers at Battersea Power Station, it’s iconic, right on the river and next to the park, which makes it such a special place to live.
From your experience, how do London’s prime new developments compare to international schemes when it comes to scale, finish, and resident experience?
London’s prime new developments can absolutely hold their own on an international level. While some overseas schemes, particularly in places like Dubai or New York, tend to be larger in scale, London developments stand out for their quality of finish, attention to detail, and heritage.
What I think really sets London apart is the resident experience, from the lifestyle amenities to the sense of community and, of course, the incredible locations. It’s that combination of design, history, and world-class service that makes London so special.
Knight Frank Interiors has supported many of the developments you represent. What impact does high-quality furnishing have on both sales and lettings performance?
High-quality furnishing has a huge impact on both sales and lettings. For sales, it helps buyers really imagine themselves living in the space, which often speeds up their decision. For lettings, I’ve seen first-hand how a beautifully furnished apartment attracts tenants more quickly, achieves stronger rents, and keeps void periods down.
With investor expectations continuing to shift, what are clients looking for in a turnkey product today that perhaps they weren’t five years ago?
Five years ago, lots of investors were mainly focused on location and yield. Today, there is more focus on sustainability, clever and functional layouts, high-quality interiors and lifestyle amenities that make the property instantly attractive to tenants.
How has working closely with KFI helped you better serve your clients, whether buy-to-let investors or owner-occupiers?
Working closely with KFI has been a real advantage, it means I can offer clients a more seamless, joined-up service. I have complete confidence that my clients will be well taken care of, they’ll receive high-quality, durable furniture along with excellent after-care service.
In your opinion, what design features or interior touches really help a property stand out in a crowded market?
In a crowded market, it’s the little touches that make a property memorable. Adding warmth and character through soft furnishings, textiles, and carefully selected artwork helps create a lived-in, inviting feel.
Looking ahead, what trends do you see shaping the future of new-build residential in London over the next few years?
Sustainability will continue to be a key focus, with energy-efficient homes and eco-friendly materials becoming standard. Buyers and tenants are also increasingly looking for lifestyle-focused amenities, such as wellness spaces, smart home technology, and flexible layouts that work for both living and working. I think high-quality design and character will remain crucial, as people want homes that feel unique and offer a sense of place, not just four walls.
For first-time investors purchasing off-plan, what advice would you give to ensure long-term appeal and minimal voids?
For first-time investors buying off-plan, my advice is to focus on location and quality. Choose developments by reputable developers. Adding turnkey features, like durable furnishings, helps attract tenants quickly and keeps void periods to a minimum.
And finally, what’s next for you and the New Homes team at Knight Frank? Any exciting collaborations or launches coming up?
Our focus for Q3 and Q4 is on Chelsea Botanica by Mount Anvil and Hurlingham Waterfront by Rockwell. These two schemes sit along the river and we know they will be very popular with tenants when they come to the market!
Favourite development you’ve worked on and why?
Has to be Battersea Power Station, I love the area and find the whole development completely iconic!
Best piece of advice you’ve received in your property career?
To always focus on building genuine relationships. Property is as much about people as it is about bricks and mortar, understanding your clients’ needs, listening carefully, and delivering consistently creates trust, repeat business, and long-term success.
If you weren’t working in property, what would you be doing?
I’d love to work in events or the food and drink industry, as I’m a real foodie and love bringing people together to share great food and experiences.
Describe your ideal London apartment in three words.
Bright, airy, welcoming.
Wherever you may be across the globe, if you're a client in need of interior assistance, feel free to get in touch with our team.