Hines has signed Caravan at its mixed-use Grainhouse re-development, spanning 8,450m2, in the heart of London’s Covent Garden.
Caravan at Grainhouse is set to open its two-floor 576m2 restaurant later this summer featuring classic all-day dishes from small plates, grains and bowls to brunch plates, pizza, and cocktails. Caravan becomes the first operator to join the building’s c. 2140m2 of retail and leisure space.
Grainhouse, a former Victorian seed warehouse, has been redeveloped in line with its rich industrial heritage interlinking four-period buildings retaining key original features including exposed concrete, steel and brickwork.
Acquired off-market by the Hines European Value Fund 2 (HEVF 2) in March 2020, Grainhouse will become Hines’ new European headquarters, with its office space spanning c. 3,345m2 across three floors of the five-level building.
Caravan was secured by specialist UK leisure and food and beverage property agency Shelley Sandzer, acting on behalf of Hines.
Emme Batten, director of retail asset management at Hines in the UK, commented: “Signing Caravan as our first F&B operator at Grainhouse is a testament to the quality central London location, and expert design and workmanship that has gone into the extensive redevelopment of the building paying homage to its traditional period design. It also demonstrates that prime buildings with great connectivity in thriving communities will continue to attract high-profile retailers. Caravan is a pioneering and highly regarded restaurant and coffee brand and we’re excited that its all-day dining concept will soon be available at Grainhouse for its occupiers and the general public alike to enjoy.”
Laura Harper-Hinton, co-founder and CEO at Caravan, added: “We’re delighted to be part of such a beautiful restoration project in the heart of Covent Garden. The building itself, with its heritage, original features and light-flooded spaces aligns perfectly with our fresh, bold-flavoured all-day menus. We plan on bringing the Pacific coast to the heart of London, morning, noon, night and feel the opportunity with Hines at the Grainhouse is the perfect fit.”
