The owner Kannan, a self-confessed fan of one of ‘the biggest and most influential bands of all time’, gives us an insight into the Sex Pistols' frontman Johnny Rotten’s connections to the flat and the area.
When did Johnny live in the apartment?
Kannan:The house was Johnny Rotten’s from 1979-82. During this time, it became known as a Mecca for the famous in this artisan part of Chelsea, with Johnny hosting many a wild night before leaving for LA to further his musical career.
What do you think made this property so appealing to Johnny Rotten?
Kannan:The location for a start! Singer Johnny Rotten and bassist Sid Vicious used to visit Vivienne Westwood's shop ‘Sex’, located just around the corner on Kings Road, during the early years of the Sex Pistols. In fact, this is where they all met.
This would have meant the location held particular significance as it was actually Vivienne Westwood’s husband, the musical Svengali Malcolm McLaren, who formed the Sex Pistols and became their manager, with a little help from Vivienne herself.
Vivienne designed much of the fashion associated with their highly visualised look which then became the iconic image of Punk during this period. This style was later to inspire the likes of Blondie and Billy Idol.
How has the property changed and what has remained the same?
Kannan:The flat was recently refurbished but keeps the same design and overall style that attracted Johnny Rotten to it in the first place.
It has three double bedrooms and an incredible split-level reception room which has kept many of the original features, such as the striking fireplace, alongside modern additions, including the large built-in fish tank.
One of most impressive original attractions in the flat is the 400sq ft roof terrace, which has now also been revamped. It’s the only roof terrace of its size in the area as none of the neighbouring properties has been allowed one, making it an exclusive feature. It’s exciting to think that Johnny and his crew once stared out over Chelsea from here, while planning how to take over the world with their music.
What did you enjoy most about the property when you lived there?
Kannan:I have had some superb parties up on the roof terrace with over 50 people at a time enjoying the views, sipping a cocktail or two and relaxing to music.
The beauty is that the terrace is completely private so there are no noise issues, which keeps the neighbours happy!
I also find the flat itself a very peaceful place for writing some of the movie scripts I am currently working on, my own creativity inspired in part by the illustrious previous owner.
Any other famous faces nearby?
Kannan:Absolutely- The Rolling Stones lived around the corner on Edith Grove and David Bowie also lived just up the road, so this area in Chelsea was home to a fair few rock legends!
The area still attracts celebrities to this day too. Earlier this month, Kanye West and Kim Kardashian visited the very same Vivienne Westwood shop where the Sex Pistols used to hang out in 1976, just around the corner from their apartment.
With all this on offer, why are you selling?
Kannan:I want to move to LA like Johnny did way back in his day. My ambitions also lie in the creative industry and I’m off to pursue my script writing dream!
To arrange to view this apartment, contact our Earls Court office either online or on 020 3728 2000.
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