This magnificent stucco-faced house, designed by George Basevi and built in 1833 on the site of nursery gardens, was at first considered almost in the country. The crescent was soon home to some eminent residents, including the French Prime Minister, Francois Guizot, who was forced to flee with his family by the revolution of 1848. Another neighbour was Edward John Trelawny, the writer, adventurer and companion of Byron and Shelley.
In the 20th century popular actress Lilian Braithwaite lived next door with her daughter Joyce Carey. Other residents included actor-manager Nigel Playfair; dramatist Emlyn Williams; Margot Fonteyn; author Eric Ambler; and publisher Max Reinhardt.