Real Estate: London

Addleshaw Goddard's 12-partner London real estate team handles a broad range of acquisition, asset management, joint venture and extension matters, and is noted for its strong capabilities in the hotel and leisure sector. The firm is recognised for its "endemic culture of high service" which is utilised by a broad range of institutional investors, developers and corporate occupants. The real estate team recently advised Sainsbury's on a £100 million joint venture mixed-use development in Ladbroke Grove. In other highlights, the firm advised UPP and Barclays on a high-profile student accommodation project, and acted for Bolt Partnerships LLP on its entry into an asset management contract on £300 million of health-related investment properties owned by BlackRock. Other key clients include Threadneedle, Primark and Volkswagen.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Andrew Shufflebotham heads the retail and consumer markets group at the firm. He is particularly noted for his expertise in the hotels and leisure sector where he has represented high-profile clients including Admiral Taverns and Enterprise Inns.

Jane Hollinshead maintains relationships with key clients including Associated British Foods. She regularly collaborates with lawyers in the firm's corporate, finance and funds practices to provide comprehensive advice on a range of matters, encompassing both commercial and residential sector property.

Lucy Sturrock impresses sources with her "clarity of advice and accuracy," as well as her ability to maximise clients' interests in difficult negotiations. She advises on transactions relating to offices, retail units and hotels, acting for a range of clients including Sainsbury's, Travelodge and NCP.

Allen & Overy is noted for its role in advising high-profile clients across a range of acquisitions, disposals, lettings and refinancings. Recent highlights include acting for Orion Capital Managers on its acquisition of an acre of residential land in Chelsea for The Glebe development, which has a value of £300 million. Other key clients of the firm include Manafea Holding Co and DTZ Holdings. Sources say: "You get exactly what you need from a commercial property team - sound legal advice with a very commercial emphasis. They do their best to facilitate deals rather than obstruct."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Adam Cleal recently acted for the European Medicines Agency on its pre-let of office space in 25 Churchill Place in London's Docklands, which it will occupy in 2015. Clients say he is "very proactive and tells us about developments," while also praising his commerciality and business sense.

Daniel McKimm has recently been advising APG and CPPIB in their £871 million acquisition of a 50% stake in Westfield Stratford. He is regarded as "very commercial" and is also noted for his expertise in loan portfolios.

Imogen Moss is "intelligent, diligent and detail oriented," while clients value her commerciality and say that she "handles other lawyers brilliantly and knows our account inside out." She focuses upon real estate investment, and recently advised Schroder Exempt Property Unit Trust on a number of acquisitions and disposals.

Christopher Woolf is "a rising star within the commercial real estate world - he is incredibly bright, incredibly commercial, and he understands his clients back to front." He specialises in handling acquisitions, disposals and refinancings for private equity clients, including Westbrook Partners.

This firm remains a key player on high-value real estate deals in the London market. A major recent highlight for the firm has been its role in assisting Westfield with its £4 billion mixed-use Stratford City development; this multi-faceted mandate has included advising on construction issues, sales and funding. Ashurst has also been advising Crossrail on land acquisition and compulsory purchase to establish the route for the £16 billion Crossrail London rail link, as well as assisting with construction and planning issues relating to station sites. Its illustrious client list includes high-profile retailers such as Tesco and Inter IKEA, public infrastructure clients including Transport for London, and a number of key developers and banks.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Hugh Lumby "is terrific on Westfield," according to sources. He led the team acting for Westfield, and has established a formidable reputation for his advice to clients on similar large-scale developments in recent years.

Anthony Burnett-Scott was part of the Westfield team, and another key client, Stanhope, has also utilised his expertise in connection with their £210 million Hereford Retail Quarter mixed-use retail and leisure development. He is widely regarded as a "clever, hard-working, and smart lawyer."

Gerald Kelly has been assisting Berkeley Group with the acquisition of sites adjacent to London Bridge and City Hall, for the purposes of a mixed-use development, One Tower Bridge, in a joint venture with the London Borough of Southwark. Sources describe him as an "incredibly clever and personable lawyer."

David Jones's recent highlights include acting for Oxford Properties on its acquisition of a 50% stake in MidCity Place from Beacon Capital Partners.

Richard Vernon heads the real estate team at Ashurst, and recently led the team advising Tesco on the regeneration of the Royal Hospital site in Wolverhampton. Clients regard him as a "sound conveyancer and, importantly, a very able negotiator."

Baker & McKenzie distinguishes itself in this market as a truly international firm able to draw upon its global network to advise on complex multi-jurisdictional deals. The firm's illustrious client base includes a range of domestic and international investors, corporate occupants - including Cisco Systems and PepsiCo - and retailers such as Michael Kors. Another key area of expertise for the firm is the hotels and leisure sector, where it represents market leaders such as Fairmont Hotels Group and Premier Inn. Clients appreciate the team's efforts to build a rapport with them: "We have built up a relationship with the individuals which means that we know they can do the job, but they also understand us and our business. They make a point of keeping up to date on what is happening with our business."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Justin Salkeld specialises in hotels and leisure sector work. Clients appreciate that "he is approachable, speaks in simple plain English and makes it understandable for lay people," while he is also "very adept at dealing with difficult situations." He was part of the team advising Edwardian Group on its purchase of the Free Trade Hall Hotel in Manchester, as well as related financing with HSBC.

Stephen Turner heads the real estate practice group at the firm, and he handles a range of property transactions, financing and development-related work. His recent work highlights include advising Employees Provident Fund of Malaysia on its purchase of Tower Bridge House near St Katherine's Dock. Clients say that he is "personable, trustworthy and listens to what we want." 

Clients are effusive in their praise for associate Michael Heyworth-Dunn: "He is very approachable and knowledgeable in a particularly challenging area of practice for in-house commercial lawyers. He has helped us navigate complex and lengthy matters and I would not hesitate to recommend him." He has recently assisted key partners with advising Jones Lang LaSalle on its merger with King Sturge, which included a takeover of around 50 properties located throughout the UK and continental Europe.

Bates Wells & Braithwaite is best known for its representation of charities and social enterprises, and this strong client base often entrusts its real estate work to this dedicated team of practitioners. The group has also represented numerous banks and commercial entities in acquisitions and disposals, leases and financings. Clients appreciate the "clear and concise answers" which they receive from the firm's lawyers, and consequently feel that they can "trust them as advisers," and "every step of the way their advice has been exactly spot on." Key clients include English National Opera, the RCN and the trade union Unite.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Anthony Cartmell is joint head of the property department. He has recently been advising CfBT Education Trust on five academy conversions, as well as the establishment of a free school in Reading. He is valued for his "tremendous knowledge, applied in a very practical manner."

Joint head of property, Nick Ivey is considered to be "very sharp and on the ball." His workload has included advising YMCA London South West on a £30 million development in Wimbledon, involving the replacement of existing buildings with a complex including a gym, restaurant, shops and living space.

Martin Gunson acts for a broad client base including New Victoria Hospital and the Victoria Foundation, and the Lawn Tennis Association. He has also advised on the sale of Med-Gourmet restaurant out of administration.

This team handles some of the largest transactions in the market and has strong expertise in the hotel and leisure sector. Sources are impressed by the team's complete package of client service and commercial awareness: "Its property team is one of the best in the country. They provide great client service. They know how to deal with tense negotiations - they are people who you want on your side." Recent highlights include advising Rontec Investments on its acquisition of more than 500 petrol filling stations and oil depot sites from the Total Group, as well as the onward sale of 251 petrol filling stations and all of the oil depot sites to Shell and DCC. The team also advised the Olympic Delivery Authority on the delivery and disposal of the Athletes' Village for the London 2012 Games. Other key clients include The Carlyle Group, National Grid, Tesco and Transport for London.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Chris de Pury is a leading figure in the real estate market, and clients appreciate that he "offers innovative solutions to complex deals." He was recently part of a team advising Hines on the acquisition of the 2 Snowhill development site in Birmingham.

"First-class" real estate practitioner James Knox is noted for his capabilities in handling cross-border deals, and he also has particular expertise in German real estate matters.

Andrew Little heads the firm's hotel group. He has considerable gravitas in this market, and draws upon previous experience as general counsel of Holiday Inns. Sources say: "He is very professional, very reassuring - and has an excellent way of dealing with clients."

Robert MacGregor leads the real estate practice at BLP. He handles a broad range of work, including investment, development and joint ventures, for investors and occupants.

Peter Rudolf is widely recognised for his specialist expertise in property development matters, an area in which he is regarded as an "absolutely first-class" practitioner.

Claire Milton is noted for her "tough but commercial approach," and clients appreciate her "real strength in being able to project manage teams and draw on their expertise." A major highlight of the past year has been her representation of Oxford Properties in its £400 million acquisition of Green Park, a business park in Reading.

David Battiscombe has a particular focus upon tower buildings and mixed-use urban regeneration schemes. He primarily advises developers and hoteliers, and is noted for his ability to "make it very easy for the layman to understand the legal system."

Andrew Sanders has a broad practice, encompassing development, investment and joint ventures, and he has been involved in some of the largest deals in the market in recent years.

David Levy's practice encompasses a broad spectrum of clients in the hotels and leisure sectors. He is noted for his niche expertise in care homes and motorway service areas.

Richard Hopkinson-Woolley recently worked with Claire Milton in the firm's representation of Oxford Properties. He has also acted for Tishman Speyer on its £172 million acquisition of Sanctuary Buildings in London from Vico Capital.

Veronica Metter remains a lawyer of choice for owners and developers involved in real estate transactions in the retail sector.

Alan Wight is a leading specialist in handling investments and developments in the City of London and Docklands area, advising key clients such as Canary Wharf Group and JPMorgan. He is also known for his representation of German funds and investors in the UK real estate market.

This firm is especially well known for its handling of real estate matters for public sector clients, including health sector entities, local authorities and social housing organisations. Clients agree that this team of lawyers "drives things, keeps on top of things - they are always organised." Recent highlights have included advising NHS Hounslow on the construction and lease of an Urgent Care Centre at West Middlesex Hospital, a PFI hospital. Other key clients include South London Healthcare NHS Trust, Places for Peoples Homes and Johnson Matthey.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Ian Caplan is "very driven to make sure the client gets what he needs," according to sources. He led the team advising Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust on a complex multimillion-pound sale of hospital property involving complications caused by the presence of telecoms masts.

This firm's workload spans acquisitions and disposals, portfolio management, leasehold enfranchisement, and major infrastructure projects. The firm has recently acted for Docklands Light Railway on the cable car project known as the Emirates Air Line, and also advised the client on the extension of the DLR to Stratford International. Other key clients include National Grid, Smurfit Kappa and City & Country Group. Sources say: "Bircham Dyson Bell are a large enough practice to be able to provide specialist advice on a wide range of issues and at the same time offer an attentive service by one of their partners."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Andrew Smith heads the firm's real estate department.

Bird & Bird advises clients on the gamut of real estate matters, including acquisitions and disposals, landlord and tenant matters, development and financing. Clients say they are "always there when we call them" and bring a "very forthright" approach to matters. The firm recently acted for Imperial London Hotels on its £83 million acquisition of Holiday Inn Bloomsbury and an adjoining office building. A diverse group of clients includes the Arts Council of England, Veladail Hotels and a number of electronics and telecoms clients, including Red Gate Software, Everything Everywhere and BT.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Andrew Stobbart was involved in the firm's representation of Imperial London Hotels. He also has niche expertise in IT and telecoms-related real estate work, including recent advice to Interxion Carrier Hotel on the acquisition of a building for the purpose of developing a data centre. Clients consider him to be "very calm and methodical" as well as being aware of possible risks, and "anticipating what could happen in ten years' time."

Boodle Hatfield has a strong reputation for its work in the property investment sphere, where it has recently been advising key client Grosvenor, London's biggest landlord. The firm also has noted expertise in the retail sector, where it advises on a range of developments and tenancies. Clients in this field include Pod Foods, which the firm recently assisted with a number of acquisitions across Central London. Other key clients include IBM UK Pensions Trust and National Grid UK Pension Scheme, which both sought advice in relation to their extensive UK property portfolios. Clients say: "They respond quickly when needed, and are proactive in reacting strategically."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Head of department Caroline King has broad property expertise, and is also particularly noted for her capabilities in the hotel and leisure sector. She leads the firm's investment and asset management work for Grosvenor, which recently utilised the firm in an acquisitions programme valued at over £100 million, amongst other work including redevelopment and sales.

Peers consider Tim Manning to be a "very bright lawyer and very nice to deal with." He has a long-standing reputation in the property market for his advice to a range of clients on landlord and tenant matters, developments and joint ventures.

Charles Russell houses a notable team of real estate practitioners which is capable of handling all manner of work, including sale and leaseback, acquisitions, financing and development. Its client list is equally diverse, encompassing a range of institutional investors, property funds, developers and charity sector entities. Sources highlight the "concise, straight-to-the-point advice" which this team of lawyers provides. Key clients of the firm include Trevor Osborne Property Group, Eton College and the City of London Corporation, a recent client win.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Lynn Povey heads the real estate team in the London office. Clients say that she has a "very thorough understanding of our property holdings, and our approach and sensitivities." She is known for her expertise in handling real estate matters for charity and education sector clients. In recent work highlights she advised GM Investment Trustees and GM (UK) Pensions Trustees on their purchase of industrial estates in Hertford and Aldershot.

Simon Ewing recently acted for IMS Health on its sale and leaseback of 7 Harewood Avenue in Marylebone to BNP Paribas. He is widely recognised for his adroit handling of all aspects of property investment and financing.

Clifford Chance maintains a formidable real estate offering which leads the market on both big-ticket work and hotels and leisure sector mandates. Clients also benefit from the team's ability to draw upon world-class expertise in the firm's construction, planning, environment, tax and finance groups. One recent highlight involved acting for Canary Wharf Group on JPMorgan's £495 million acquisition of 25 Bank Street in Canary Wharf. In the hotels sphere, the firm has advised clients on landmark developments such as Shangri-La Hotels' new establishment in The Shard, and Corinthia Hotels' joint venture to construct a five-star hotel in the former Ministry of Defence headquarters in Whitehall. Clients praise the lawyers' combination of legal knowledge and commercial awareness, while one satisfied customer proclaims: "It is important to chose a good adviser, and we like them because they are customer service-oriented and you receive personal service. They are the best in London and we work with several firms."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Tony Briam is praised for his "wise, calm" approach to real estate matters. He recently advised Hedleigh on its £143 million sale of Audley Square House in Mayfair.

Jonathan Solomon heads the real estate practice in London. Clients consider him to be "commercial, client-focused and easy to deal with." He was a key partner in the firm's representation of Canary Wharf Group in connection with its pre-let of half of a new building - 25 Churchill Place to be built in Canary Wharf - to the European Medicines Agency.

According to clients, Franc Pena "knows the technical stuff and makes sensible commercial suggestions." He was part of the team which advised Eurohypo on a development financing facility and joint venture connected with a City of London office development.

Andrew Carnegie, widely regarded as a key figure in the hotel and leisure sector, draws upon strong property finance expertise to advise borrowers, banks and investors.

Clients hail this firm as a "multi-talented, multifaceted one-stop shop," a description borne out by its extensive client list of banks, investors, developers, occupants and retailers. Recent major work highlights include advising Emirates on an extension to its Commercially Important Person Lounge in Terminal 3, Heathrow Airport. Other key clients include UPS, Coutts & Co, Grosvenor and Tesco.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Martin Quicke is noted for his "very broad experience" in the real estate sector, and clients consider him to be a "solution-focused" lawyer. He recently acted for Grainger on its successful bid for the Aldershot Urban Extension mixed-use residential development.

Adam Taylor-Smith has a strong reputation for his handling of high-value, complex transactions, including recent work for the Kandahar Property Group on its £350 million sale of a retail portfolio to multiple buyers.

Graeme Taylor is noted for his expertise across a range of investment and development matters within the real estate sphere. He represented CGIS in its acquisition of St Swithins House from Minerva, as well as the subsequent disposal.

CMS, highly regarded for its adroit handling of real estate mandates at the top end of the market, is also one of the leading firms for hotels and leisure work. The firm recently advised Imperial College on its joint venture with Voreda to redevelop the BBC's former White City site, and it also represented the Employee Provident Fund of Malaysia in its £80 million acquisition of the Sainsbury’s distribution centre in Dartford. Other key clients of the firm include PRUPIM/M&G and the Wellcome Trust, and on the hotels side Lloyds TSB and Accor. Sources wax lyrical about the firm's ability to cover all legal issues comprehensively: "The relationship we have developed allows me to focus absolutely on matters of principle and commerciality, with confidence that the detail of resulting legal interests will have been given the necessary thought and robust negotiation. The team has a genuine depth that gives me certainty that timescales will be met and continuity of advice provided."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Edward Benzecry is a leading adviser to property investment groups, and his recent workload has seen him advise M&G, Windsor Life and Merseyside Pension Fund in their purchase of 12.5% stakes in the Fort Shopping Park from Invista Real Estate Investment Management. Sources appreciate his "good client skills - he looks after us very well." 

Mark Heighton heads the real estate department at the firm, and his recent work highlights have included advising Westminster City Council on its £121 million sale of the Paddington Basin site, which has a development value in excess of £500 million. Sources say he has "a particularly strong understanding of the underlying foundations of specific deals," and that he is "robust in discussions with other lawyers, whilst retaining sufficient charm to ensure genuine progress."

Nick Hadley is noted for his broad real estate expertise in acquisitions, disposals and developments in both the residential and commercial sectors.

Thomas Page heads the firm's hotel and leisure practice, where his particular specialism lies in property transactions. Clients appreciate that he has "great knowledge of the hotel and real estate sectors."

Louise Wallace recently assisted RBS with the £422 million disposal of its pub estate to Heineken. Peers also highlight her expertise on hotel-related transactions: "She is very well established and well regarded, and a lead partner on large hotels deals."

Hotels and leisure specialist James Miller is recognised for his "abilities as a negotiator."

This firm has a broad property practice which encompasses residential and commercial developments, property management, planning and sustainability issues. Its impressive client list includes major financial institutions, retail sector clients and government bodies, while it also has specialist expertise in the hotel and leisure sector. Recent highlights include acting for Crest Nicholson on the Bath Western Riverside regeneration project in Bath. Other key clients include Galliford Try, Arab Investments and L'Oréal. Sources say: "They provide a personal and proactive service with a 'can do' attitude. They think commercially and understand the commercial drivers of the residential sector."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Paul McCartney is a key contact for hotel-related work, with the capacity to handle a range of acquisitions and disposals, developments and financings for the full variety of clients within that industry.

Department head Robert Lee is regarded as "a superb solicitor, with great interpersonal skills combined with astute business acumen - it is always beneficial to have him acting on your side." He is the key partner in the firm's relationship with Taylor Wimpey, which recently sought advice on a range of developments, including a house building project on a former RAF site at Daws Hill near High Wycombe.

John Phelps has broad expertise in the real estate sphere, but is perhaps best known for his advice on landlord and tenant matters.

This firm's real estate practice is noted for its presence on a variety of high-value transactions. Clients appreciate the expertise available at this "very professional, multidisciplined, international firm," describing the lawyers as "very switched-on, easy to deal with, clear and concise." Key clients include Sainsbury’s, Westfield and Kier Property Development.

Subsequent to publication, SNR Denton LLP, Salans LLP and Fraser Milner Casgrain LLP merged to form Dentons in April 2013.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Richard Budge is regarded as "very responsive, commercial and sensible." He recently acted for the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham on negotiations with Capco regarding the sale of land and the building of over 1,400 homes.

Andrew Bedford represented Hammerson in the £5 billion Brent Cross/Cricklewood regeneration project. Clients describe him as "bright, commercial and very pleasant to deal with."

This firm is noted for its handling of a range of big-ticket transactions in the real estate sphere, as well as notable hotel-related work. In recent work highlights the firm has advised Richard James Stanley and Nigel Cameron Wheeler, as fixed-charge receivers, on the high profile sale of Peterborough Court, the European headquarters of Goldman Sachs. As one client highlights, the firm has a "very wide range of specialisms and a global reach," which enables it to garner instructions from investors, developers and hotel groups from a diverse range of jurisdictions. Another key strength of the organisation is that its members are "extremely good at timing and keeping on top of things." Key clients include AXA, the Homes and Communities Agency, Pfizer and the Olympic Delivery Authority.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Simon Cookson heads the real estate team in London. He has a wealth of experience advising investors on a range of high-value acquisitions and development.

As head of the firm's green real estate team in London, Paul Jayson is a key contact for all sustainability-related matters.

Joanne Owen's diverse workload has recently included advice to a high net worth client on its £288 million acquisition of Aviva Tower in the City of London, as well as advising clients on hotel-related work.

Clients say that Catherine Usher delivers "advice that is both legally sound and highly practical." Her real estate practice encompasses a range of commercial and residential acquisitions and disposals, funding and development agreements.

This firm's London office is highly regarded in its own right, but with the added benefit of a comprehensive Scottish presence which enables clients to receive a full UK-wide service when required. Clients note that its lawyers are "attentive and responsive" and appreciate that there is a "high level of partner interaction." The team advises Land Securities on a range of retail sector matters, including recent advice on the client's sale of the Corby town centre development to Helical Bar for £70 million, and in its lease of shopping centre space to Primark at Trinity Leeds. It has also assisted National Grid with the land rights acquisition strategy for the Western High Voltage Direct Current Link project.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Iain Lindsay is a key contact.

Eversheds' London office houses a notable real estate team which is a popular choice for big-ticket deals, and offers clients the benefit of a truly global practice with offices across Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa. Key recent work highlights include advising Covent Garden Market Authority in connection with the New Covent Garden Market redevelopment scheme in Vauxhall, London, which has a development value of some £2 billion. Other clients include institutional pension funds, such as that of BAE Systems; a number of major investors, including several Middle East and Far East clients; retail sector entities; and developers functioning at the intersection between the public and private sectors.

KEY INDIVIDUALS International head of real estate William Naunton has recently been advising real estate fund Aerium Finance on a range of acquisitions, including the purchase of One Glass Wharf, Bristol.

Bruce Dear leads the investment group in this department, and has been assisting Legal & General with a range of matters, encompassing acquisitions and financings in the commercial, residential and leisure sectors.

Since his arrival from Macfarlanes, Clive Lampard has continued to advise on a range of matters for key corporate occupier clients. He has considerable experience within the retail, leisure and healthcare sectors, amongst others.

Stephen Sorrell is a real estate practitioner, with a formidable reputation in the urban development and regeneration sphere.

Nicholas Bartlett is a key property investment partner, and has advised clients on a number of high-profile acquisitions and refinancings in recent years.

Stephen Manson is noted for his ability to handle a range of regeneration and asset management work.

Richard Lampert recently joined the firm from Dundas & Wilson. He brings considerable expertise in advising property investors and developers on acquisitions, disposals and asset management. 

Farrer & Co draws upon a diverse client base including commercial property developers, charities and social housing organisations, and it also has particular strength in the property finance sphere. Sources say the lawyers are "calm and professional, whilst very knowledgeable in their specialist areas." Key clients include London Underground, the Charities Property Fund, the Duchy of Cornwall and Diageo.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Charles Anderson has a diverse client base of international investors, charities and social landlords. He has recently advised WWF-UK on its Living Planet Centre headquarters project, and has continued to represent the Joseph Rowntree Housing Trust in the Derwenthorpe urban community project.

Andrew Bailey is a key figure in real estate investment. He recently assisted Highbridge Properties with funding issues relating to the expansion of its Cobalt Data Centre Campus.

This firm's comprehensive real estate offering covers investments, developments and tenancies, while the firm also has specialist expertise in the hotels and leisure sector, and infrastructure. The team has recently advised the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills, as the tenant, on a rent review of its headquarters. Other key clients include Accenture, the London Borough of Southwark and Bank of Ireland.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Roger Sargologo is a key contact for energy and infrastructure-related work, advising key clients such as BP, National Grid and Southern Gas Networks, as well as a number of telecoms, chemicals and renewable sector entities.

Jayne Elkins is a key partner advising investors and corporate occupants. She acts for Shell Pension Funds on a broad range of work, and recently represented the City of London Corporation in connection with 51 lease renewals at Smithfield Market. Clients consider her to be a "knowledgeable and effective" real estate practitioner.

Paul Houston is a hotel and leisure sector specialist. He is a key adviser to RREEF on its UK investments and asset management.

Fladgate has a strong presence on mid-market real estate transactions in the London market, and also houses notable expertise in the hotels and leisure sector. One particular highlight for the firm has been its representation of Hitachi in the design and construction of energy-from-waste plants in the UK; to date, the value of the matters undertaken exceeds £3 billion. In the hotel and leisure sector, the firm advises a diverse client base including Akkeron, Esporta, Odeon and Starbucks. Clients highlight the team's "knowledge of the relevant law, efficiency, practicality, common sense and reliability."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Stephen Lewis recently joined the firm from Finers Stephens Innocent. He specialises in hotel and leisure sector work, which has previously seen him advise clients on hotel acquisitions and casino-related matters.

Anthony Vaughan has been advising Akkeron on its acquisition of ten hotels from the administrators of Butterfly Hotels and Crowne Hotels. Sources say that he is "commercial and intelligent with a good client touch."

Richard Kaufman is hugely experienced in property investment and finance, and regularly advises overseas investors on their forays into the UK market. These include Israeli property investors, which is aided by his fluency in Hebrew. Recent work highlights include acting for a Swiss trust on its £20.1 million purchase of The Circus, Manchester, and assisting with the firm's recent advice to Hitachi. 

Forsters' real estate team is considered to be a leader for mid-market deals, while it also provides clients with an exemplary service on big-ticket transactions and matters in the hotel and leisure sphere. The firm's diverse client list includes the developers Realis Estates and LXB Properties; investors, such as F & C REIT Asset Management; and corporate occupants, including McDonald's. Clients wax lyrical about the real estate team's service: "They take the time to understand the big picture from the outset. They provide good input from other teams and have worked well with our range of consultants and other lawyers. There is a consistency of approach across the firm, with strength in depth."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Smita Edwards is noted for her "ability to adapt to a situation," while her "commercial awareness is second to none." Edwards is noted for her considerable expertise in acting for developers on retail, commercial and mixed-use developments. For example, she recently led the team advising Realis Estates on the £350 million redevelopment of the East West Centre, Stoke-on-Trent.

Eugene McMahon "brings a strong commercial approach with a focus on the deal. He will always provide a solution to a potential problem, and often a range of options to choose from." He has been advising the British Airways Pension Fund on a new development in Chorley, Lancashire, which will be let to Waitrose as a regional distribution warehouse. His expertise also extends to landlord and tenant work, regeneration and funding.

Howard Gill heads the real estate department at the firm, and is regularly involved in some of the firm's key mandates advising on acquisitions and disposals. Recent work highlights have included acting for Lathe Investments on its £27.8 million disposal of Castlegate Shopping Centre, Stockton-on-Tees, to Angelo, Gordon & Co. Clients say that he is "able to provide a very good commercial perspective in negotiations, and he is a good deal broker."

Matthew Swainston is "very good, pragmatic, and easy to work with," according to clients. He has been advising Alrov Properties on its hotel and retail development on the Café Royal site, Regent Street, London.

Up-and-coming partner Magnus Hassett advises a range of investors and occupants on acquisitions and disposals, asset management and lettings.

Penelope Elliott specialises in hotels and leisure sector work, which has recently seen her represent Bespoke Hotels in its purchase of two hotel businesses from Cotswold House Hotel, as well as taking a lease of the hotels from the seller.

Fox Williams is highly regarded for its property management advice, as well as advising clients on acquisitions and commercial tenancy matters. Clients say: "They have a very commercial attitude - they have an honest view of the risks but they are also willing to give an opinion of what a client should do." Key clients include Restaurants Etc, FM Global and National Instruments.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Clients praise department head Simon Smith for his "great property knowledge married to a no-nonsense commercial approach." He has been handling a range of tenancy matters, including representing FM Insurance Company in negotiations of an early surrender of lease.

Liz Ruff is described as a "real pleasure to work with." She recently advised Associates in Advertising on taking a new office tenancy in London.

Freshfields maintains its position as a key adviser on big-ticket transactions for investment funds, developers and public sector clients, amongst others. The firm's international expertise is demonstrated by its representation of Canada Pension Plan Investment Board in its EUR1.3 billion acquisition of a 50% stake in CentrO Oberhausen, a shopping and leisure centre in Germany; this involved close collaboration between the firm's London and Hamburg offices. The real estate practice is also accomplished in the hotels and leisure sector, where it has advised Mint Hotels on its refinancing and subsequent purchase by Blackstone, in a deal valued at £600 million. Of late, the firm acted as the official legal services provider to the London 2012 Games, which involved negotiations for the use of competition venues, training facilities, warehousing, office space and accommodation; three associates from the real estate team were on secondment to LOCOG. Other key clients include Land Securities, MSREF and British Land. Sources say the lawyers are "very efficient and effective with an ability to deal with complex issues."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Chris Morris is lauded for his "good grasp of detail," which he applies to a range of landlord and tenant matters, acquisitions and infrastructure developments. He was involved in the firm's recent advice to Almacantar on its purchase of the mixed-use development, Marble Arch Tower.

Department head John Fordham is praised for his accessibility to clients. His recent highlights have included advising Spanish bank Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria on the relocation of its UK headquarters to One Canada Square, Canary Wharf.

Mark Wheelhouse is "very sensible and commercial," according to impressed peers. He represented JJW Hotels & Resorts in its purchase of hotels in Leeds, Edinburgh and Paris from the administrators of The Scotsman Hotel Group.

Emma Kendall regularly advises on complex infrastructure-related developments, and has also been advising British Land on its £57 million purchase of residential property at Wardrobe Court, City of London.

This three-partner team is well regarded for its handling of high-end real estate matters, especially investment and financing issues. Private equity groups figure prominently in the firm's client base, and recent work highlights have included advising AREA Capital Partners on its joint venture with F&C REIT and ESAS Holding (Turkey) in the £120 million purchase of office/retail portfolios and a shopping centre. The firm is also known for its capacity to handle property matters in the hotel and leisure sector. For example, Marriott International utilised the firm's expertise on a joint venture with AC Hotels of Spain, as well as seeking advice on the £470 million sale by RBS of Grosvenor House Hotel in London to Sahara Group. Other key clients include Deutsche Bank and Westbrook Partners.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Alan Samson was involved in the firm's work for AREA Capital Partners and Marriott International. He also advised W.R. Berkley Corporation on its purchase of 27 Leadenhall Street and 54-56 Lime Street, London for the purpose of establishing a new London headquarters. Clients describe him as "very capable - he is highly sophisticated, clever and hard driving."

This team impresses sources with its "level of partner-led service, the personal nature of that service, and the quality of that service." Other qualities cited by clients include the level of co-ordination between team members, and their meticulous approach to matters: "The level of detail is strong and the due diligence is strong." Lately, the firm has been advising the Structadene Group on its sale of around £300 million worth of commercial properties, while in other work highlights the team has acted for the William Pears Group on its £7 million purchase of a commercial site at Heathrow. Other key clients include NCP, Ted Baker and Hilton Hotels.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Diana Featherstonhaugh manages a diverse workload, including investments, landlord and tenant, development and property finance. Clients describe her as "very user-friendly, commercial and precise" in her advice.

This two-partner team regularly acts for investors and developers on the purchase and sale of retail and business sites. Recent highlights include acting for Cross Stone Securities on the lease of premises to Lidl, and representing Sutton One and Sutton Two in the acquisition of The Lanes Shopping Centre in Sutton Coldfield. The firm also services a number of entertainment industry clients, including the London Academy of Dramatic Arts, which it recently advised on its sale of the MacOwan Theatre.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Robert Reilly heads the real estate department at the firm.

Hempsons is particularly well known for its advice to healthcare and charity sector clients, although it also represents a number of private sector occupants. Recent work highlights include advising a number of Primary Care Trusts and Foundation Trusts on real estate aspects of the transfer of community services under the Department of Health's Transforming Community Services programme. The firm's diverse client list includes North Lincolnshire Primary Care Trust, the British Medical Association and The Worshipful Company of Brewers.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Clients say that Charles Farrer is "very focused on the things that matter to us, and also focused on how to drive the process to the right conclusion." He has a diverse workload, which recently included advising the Dame Alice Owen Foundation on the restructuring of a development agreement, and acting for the European Association for Cardio-Thoracic Surgery on its acquisition of a Windsor head office.

Graham Lea is noted for his considerable expertise in the healthcare sector, which recently involved acting for South Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust on its acquisition of community services contracts from PCTs in Bedfordshire, West Essex and South East Essex. In other work highlights he has advised Maples and Calder on the lease agreement for its new City of London offices.

Herbert Smith remains an adviser of choice for clients involved in real estate matters at the top end of the market, while its capacity in the hotel and leisure sector also draws praise from peers and clients alike. The team has recently been assisting the Moorfield Group with a range of matters, including its £315 million acquisition of warehouse facilities, and the £51.1 million purchase of Salisbury House in the City's Finsbury Circus for letting as offices and retail units. Sources describe the lawyers in this group as "knowledgeable, forensic and innovative," pointing out that "they understand what the client is trying to achieve, which means they can give a targeted, rather than a generic, response." Key clients include Lloyds TSB, London & Continental Railways and The Carlyle Group.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Sources describe James Barnes as a "very patient, very skilful and very commercial" real estate practitioner. He is noted for his particular expertise in development projects.

Donald Rowlands is praised by peers for being "pragmatic and focused on getting the deal done," while clients appreciate that he is "one of the best property lawyers in terms of giving practical commercial advice." He deals with a range of acquisitions and disposals, as well as development projects. 

Head of real estate Ian Cox led the team advising Blackstone on its £480 million purchase of Chiswick Park, and also assisted Blackstone with its acquisition of two industrial park portfolios with a combined total of £480 million.

Jeremy Walden worked with Ian Cox in all of the firm's recent work for key client Blackstone. He is noted for his ability to advise on a range of investment and development transactions, including matters involving complex corporate and joint venture concerns.

Richard Forsdyke handles a diverse workload of acquisitions, refinancings and regeneration projects. He has been representing the London Development Agency in the high-profile £1.5 billion Silvertown Quays regeneration project in the Royal Docks.

Julian Pollock's practice spans acquisitions and disposals, development, and landlord and tenant matters. He was a key partner in the firm's work for the Moorfield Group, and he has also advised BSkyB on the redevelopment of its Osterley Campus. Clients say he is "very good at explaining complex information, and is somebody who non-lawyers find easy to deal with as well."

David Rosen is an up-and-coming partner in the real estate team. He worked with Richard Forsdyke in the firm's representation of the London Development Agency, and also led the team advising Chelsfield on its bid to purchase the Clarges Estate in Piccadilly from the Warnford Group.

This firm has a solid client base of investors, including both domestic and overseas institutions, private equity houses and sovereign wealth funds, as well as advising a range of lenders and corporate occupants. It is noted for its expertise in the restructuring and insolvency sphere, as well as the hotels and leisure sector. Sources note that the firm has "the depth and breadth to provide resources and teams very quickly at any time of day or night. If something arises, they can look at it and match anything put across by the other side." Key clients include LaSalle Investment Management, John Lewis Partnership, Barclays and News International.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Head of department Michael Stancombe is "accessible and good at working as part of a team," according to satisfied clients. Peers are also full of praise for this market leading practitioner, describing him as "a tower of strength, a beacon of respectability" and "the kind of person you can get things done with." His expertise lies in the representation of major investors in acquisitions, sales, refinancings and fund management. Recent highlights include advising Hermes on a USD400 million joint venture with Hampshire on a US real estate fund, and acting for Queensland Investment on the £210 million refinancing of its stake in the Merry Hill shopping centre.

Jackie Newstead is "very approachable and straightforward," say sources. She recently advised Prudential on its £400 million sale of Green Park Office Park, near Reading.

Dion Panambalana impresses clients, who describe him as "very commercial and extremely good at getting to grips with what really matters for his clients in a transaction."

Daniel Norris is considered to be a "rising star" in the real estate world. He advises on a range of acquisitions and disposals, including the sale of distressed property assets.

Howard Kennedy remains a strong mid-market real estate practice in London, and is also noted for its expertise in the hotel in leisure sector. The real estate team draws on wider expertise within the firm in the corporate, finance, construction and planning spheres. Recently the team acted for Bridon International on its development of a new rope/cable manufacturing facility on the site of the former Swan Hunter shipyards in Tyneside. The firm has also advised on numerous transactions in the residential and commercial property sphere, including the £27 million disposal of a hostel/hotel to Mansion Capital Group. Key clients include Diageo, Jupiter and Warrant Estates.

In February 2013, Howard Kennedy merged with Finers Stephens Innocent LLP and began trading as HowardKennedyFSI.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Clients note that joint head of department Julian Hindmarsh brings a "very practical and balanced" approach to real estate matters. He has recently been advising Pandora Jewellery on its acquisition of a new UK head office, as well a store in the One New Change development. Retail and leisure sector work is a key aspect of his practice, although he also has broader investment and development expertise.

Eric Gummers is regarded as a key market player in hotel-related work. Recent highlights include advising Frogmore on property issues connected with the restructuring of funding for the development of the Park Plaza Apart-Hotel.

This firm's market reputation continues to grow following the establishment of a London real estate team in 2010. The team draws upon wider expertise in the construction, planning, environment and tax spheres to advise clients on transactional work and lettings. Recent mandates have seen the team act for Prestbury as landlord on its transfer of the operation of its Southern Cross care homes to Methodist Homes and Royal Mencap; the team also acted for Redevco on its purchase of a retail parade in Bournemouth. Sources say: "The firm seems to have quality people at all levels and we like the fact that we can use both London and regional lawyers. The firm has plenty of experienced lawyers who have worked for bigger and smaller firms."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Department head Jon Vivian "is incredibly experienced - he knows the other lawyers well, he knows the other parties very well." A key contact for many of the firm's major clients, he is highly experienced in investments and developments in the commercial sector.

Clients consider Rob Thompson to be "very good on tactics, absolutely awesome on strategy. He was a real trusted ally - totally aligned to what we were trying to achieve." He handles corporate real estate transactions and real estate finance, as well as a range of other investments and developments.

Jones Day is particularly noted for its capacity to advise investors and developers on high-value property transactions across a range of sectors, including industrial estates, retail parks and office blocks. The group's prestigious client list includes London & Stamford Property, Metric Property Investments and Arlington Business Parks Partnership.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Head of department David Roberts has recently assisted with a number of high-value acquisitions, including Hansteen Holdings' £150 million purchase of the Spencer group's property portfolio, and British Land's £240 million acquisition of Drake Circus Shopping Centre in Plymouth from the Kandahar Group.

K&L Gates offers clients the benefit of a truly international practice, with the firm spanning the United States, Europe, Asia, South America and the Middle East. It advises an impressive array of investors, and maintains a workload which encompasses acquisitions and disposals, finance, fund structuring and public sector work, as well as sustainability issues. Aberdeen Asset Management, AOL, Jones Lang LaSalle and Laing O'Rourke all feature on this firm's illustrious client list. In the past year, the team advised Rushmoor Borough Council on a £70 million mixed-use redevelopment in Aldershot town centre, and represented RREEF in the sale of a retail and leisure park. Clients say: "The firm feels like they are an extension of our business and they take initiatives on our behalf. They have the interest of our business at heart."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Wayne Smith heads the department in London and is also joint head of the global real estate team. Experienced in the handling of cross-border deals, Smith is qualified in New Zealand as well as England & Wales. He recently advised Henderson Global Investors on the acquisition of a £188 million pound development site at Leadenhall Triangle, in a complex multi-jurisdictional deal spanning the UK, Canada, Guernsey, Jersey and Luxembourg.

According to clients, Piers Coleman "is incredibly experienced and I respect his ability greatly. He is an excellent sounding board and incredibly straightforward." He is a key figure in the firm's work for a range of investors and developers.

This team of real estate practitioners is experienced in handling a range of acquisition, leasing and development matters, while it also draws on considerable expertise in the property finance and litigation spheres. The firm represents Allied Irish Banks, Chartis and Sheffield United FC, and has recently acted for a number of new clients, including Lee Valley Estates and Handelsbanken.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Sally Morris-Smith was recently made partner at the firm. She was instructed by Scarborough in its acquisition of a portfolio from Greenhills Properties, and has also acted for Forsyth Business Centres on lease negotiations.

This firm is recognised for its handling of real estate work for a range of developers and occupants, especially in the retail and hotel sectors. The real estate group also draws upon the firm's wider strengths in property finance, planning, construction and environment. One satisfied client says: "They have a real understanding of our business, and a good approach to commerciality and risk. They know what matters to us, and what we are not worrying about." Key clients of the firm include Sainsbury's, AXA, Legal & General and Threadneedle.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Peers describe Julian Innes-Taylor as "a fabulous lawyer." He recently joined the firm from Linklaters, and brings with him considerable experience in landlord and tenant matters, as well a range of acquisitions and headquarters developments.

Jon Lloyd is recognised for his particular expertise in advising on all aspects of real estate development projects. Sources say: "He is laid-back, quite reserved in a nice way - not a pompous lawyer."

Rabinder Chaggar has been advising Sainsbury's on £750 million of foodstore developments, including notable sites in Sutton, Greenwich and Bicester, as well as a £250 million sale and leaseback programme. Clients say that "he is a very competent lawyer - I can trust him to cover all the bases."

This firm handles a range of landlord and tenant, transactional, development and infrastructure-related work, as well as asset management and financing. It represents Gondola Group in its property portfolio management, including a range of lease renewal matters. In other highlights, it advised Rio Tinto on the redevelopment of its former headquarters in St. James's Square. Clients praise the firm's timeliness, and note that they have been "very good at explaining the legal complexities in a very understandable way," as well as being "very good at working collaboratively."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Head of real estate Leonard Goodrich is "always very well informed," say clients: "If there were any challenges he was always innovative in his proposals to get around them." His recent highlights include advising Electronic Arts on the sale of its former European headquarters to Astellas Pharma.

Linklaters' real estate team remains a solid choice for big-ticket transactions as well as hotels and leisure sector property work. Sources find that the team is particularly commercial, practical in the completion of deals, and has an ability to "help in protecting us from risks we are not aware of." The firm serves a diverse client base of property developers, funds and banks, on acquisitions and disposals, lettings, developments and finance. Key clients include ProLogis, Credit Suisse, AREA Property Partners and Henderson.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Martin Elliott is "a good personality to deal with people in difficult situations - he performs very well." He specialises in advising on development projects, and his most recent highlights have included assisting British Land with negotiating a pre-let for Aon at the Leadenhall Building, London.

Sources say that Patrick Plant is "always a pleasure to deal with - he is just so gracious and so helpful." He advises occupants, developers and investors, and has recently assisted Beacon Capital Partners with its sale of 200-214 Gray's Inn Road in London, the headquarters of ITN.

Simon Clark, head of European real estate at Linklaters, has vast experience in the field of REITs.

This firm's diverse practice includes property work in the healthcare, education and hotel sectors, as well as specific advice on data centres, residential developments and infrastructure projects. In recent highlights the firm has represented the Arora Family Trust and Grove Developments in the disposal and development of a hotel at Stansted Airport, as well as in the sale, development and letting of the former Mercure Hotel Gatwick to Travelodge. Other key clients of the firm include Legal & General, ING and Delancey.

KEY INDIVIDUALS David Sanders has been assisting Muse Developments with its successful bid to partner Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council in the Basing View regeneration project. Sources consider him to be "commercial, very solid, and hard-working."

Clients appreciate that Dominic Cunliffe "understands what we're trying to achieve rather than imposing his own agenda." He recently assisted Westmont Hospitality Group with its purchase of a portfolio of hotels from the Eton Group, including Threadneedles Hotel in the City of London and The Glasshouse in Edinburgh.

Charles Horsfield's recent workload includes representing AXA Real Estate Investment Managers in the acquisition and funding of a distribution warehouse in Avonmouth.

Steven Pitchford is a highly regarded partner described by peers as "very strong technically and experience-wise." He has recently advised Derwent London on developments and lettings, and acted for the Royal Mail as landowner on a number of development sites.

Manches maintains a notable real estate practice which draws upon expertise across a number of practice groups within the firm, including planning, construction, corporate and tax.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Rajan Shori is a key contact.

Clients praise this "very proactive and forward-thinking firm," which provides "predominantly partner-level contact, and certainly partner-level accountability." Another key attribute is the team's strength in depth: "We are impressed with the quality of advice and work that we get from all levels of the chain. They are efficient, timely and understand the commercial aspects." The firm's workload encompasses investments, developments and acquisitions, as well as lease agreements for corporate occupants. One recent work highlight saw the team advise the US government on the relocation of its London embassy, including the sale of its Grosvenor Square site and purchase of the new site in Nine Elms from Ballymore Properties. Other key clients include Legal & General, CLS Holdings, UK Commercial Property Trust and Rockspring Asset Management.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Declan Power is an "extremely efficient, very practical" real estate lawyer. He recently advised Legal & General on its purchase from Kandahar of a leasehold interest in Jackson Square Shopping Centre, Bishop’s Stortford.

Mark Bryan heads the real estate department at the firm. He assisted the US government with its embassy relocation, and is also expert in handling a range of investment and development matters for key clients.

Roger Thornton brings a "straightforward common-sense approach" to matters, and clients say that he "understands what we want from a deal." He advises on acquisitions, asset management and lease negotiations for numerous clients, including London's City University and FreemantleMedia.

Neil Sagoo has worked with other key lawyers at the firm in a number of disposals and acquisitions, including its representation of both the US government and Legal & General.

Maxwell Winward's nine-partner real estate team is a major player in mid-market real estate transactions and funds work. It handles property management, acquisitions and sales, investment fund structuring and lettings. Clients appreciate the firm's commercial awareness: "They understand business objectives and how the company operates, and act accordingly." It is regularly instructed by clients of Aberdeen Asset Management, and also counts British Land, Mean Fiddler and the Duchy of Lancaster amongst its clients.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Raymond Levine represents a number of institutional investors, including Hermes and LaSalle, in numerous real estate matters, including investment structuring and development funding.

Neil Stafford handles mandates covering a range of retail, office and industrial sites. He has been advising LaSalle Investment Management on the £32 million acquisition of Exe Bridges Retail Park in Exeter and the sale of plots at Aztec West Business Park.

Mayer Brown advises a number of high-profile property developers and funds on acquisitions and joint ventures, and is noted for its specialist expertise in structured investment and development transactions. Sources highlight the strong culture of client care at the firm, noting that "the partners have always made themselves available and stay actively involved in transactions." Another client comments: "They understand the importance of being responsive and trying to accommodate the client's needs." Key clients include British Land Company, GE Capital Real Estate and Tishman Speyer.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Jeremy Clay has recently assisted Canary Wharf Group with its £300 million joint venture with Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company, and the related agreement with Shell International, to redevelop the Shell Centre site. Clients describe Clay as a "very effective negotiator," who "speaks authoritatively on whatever you ask him," and "keeps his cool throughout." "He was easily the most impressive lawyer that I have worked with for ages. He is exceptionally and unusually impressive. He takes a pragmatic approach to things and sees the wider picture," says one client.

Chris Harvey recently joined the firm from CMS. His real estate practice has a strong international aspect, and his clients include a range of domestic and overseas investors.

Iain Roberts is a senior associate in the real estate team. He worked with Jeremy Clay in the firm's advice to key clients Canary Wharf Group and JPMorgan.

Martin Wright has joined Mayer Brown from Ashurst, where he led a team advising developer Teighmore/Sellar Properties on the Shard of Glass, including aspects of The Place and New London Bridge Quarter developments. This has involved a range of acquisitions, leases and pre-let agreements.

McGuireWoods' London office houses a strong real estate practice which handles both domestic and international mandates for clients spanning Europe, the United States, the Middle East and India. It advises this diverse client base on a range of high-value acquisitions, leases and financings. Key clients include Corporate Finance House, Banif Bank and Trafigura.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Senior counsel Petar Orlić has been advising Nightingale Architects/IBI Income Fund on the renewal and restructuring of multiple leases, and has represented Citygate in landlord and tenant matters relating to its Volkswagen showroom. His extensive international expertise includes specific capabilities in handling work relating to the former Yugoslavia, and he is also adept at handling real estate finance and refinancing matters.

This firm's real estate practice is adept at handling a range of real estate transactions, landlord and tenant matters, and development issues. It acts for a diverse client base including institutional investors, developers and retailers. Clients consider the team to be "very efficient, extremely experienced - they provide thorough and rounded advice."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Nicola Kravitz is a key partner in this team. Particularly noted for her work for retailers, she also advises lenders, investors and developers on issues surrounding commercial, residential and mixed-use sites, as well as medical centres and leisure complexes.

Mishcon de Reya has significantly expanded its real estate practice in the past year, further enhancing its capabilities across the board on acquisitions, disposals and construction in both the commercial and residential sectors. Key work highlights include advising the administrative receivers on the sale of the Piccadilly Estate to Aldersgate Investment Managers, and acting for Chelsfield on the Parabola development in Holland Park. Sources say: "The firm is particularly skilled at articulating the various legal issues concisely and providing practical commercial judgements and advice."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Head of real estate Nick Doffman has recently been advising Capital & Counties on the Earls Court regeneration project. Sources appreciate that "he gets to the crux of a deal and makes it happen."

Nick Minkoff is widely regarded as a "star player," while clients appreciate that he is "proactive, commercial and supportive in terms of timing." His recent highlights include advising funds on the £305 million sale of the Rolls Building in Fetter Lane, London.

Stephen Hughes has a "good working knowledge of commercial issues beyond real estate." He advised Delancey and Qatari Diar on their £557 million purchase of the Olympic Village, as well as long-term management issues arising from its future redevelopment.

Ian Paul has been advising Londonewcastle on its sale of a property portfolio to UK and European Investments, a Lewis Trust Group investment vehicle. Clients describe him as "personable and commercially minded," and they appreciate that he has "a very broad range of knowledge, is always up to date and is willing to advise on the latest issues affecting the industry."

Nabarro is a key player on big-ticket transactions in the real estate market, and has recently handled a number of high-value acquisitions for key clients. Recent examples include the firm's advice to AXA REIM on its £233 million purchase of 20 Gresham Street in London. Sources note that the lawyers in this team are "always responsive, very commercial and happy to give advice." Key clients include Land Securities, Grosvenor, BP Pension Fund and GE Capital.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Amanda Howard is "very focused and has an ability to really get to the mark and identify the key issues." She has vast experience in corporate real estate matters, joint ventures and structured funds.

Deborah Parry's workload includes a number of high-value acquisitions, including advice to Great Portland Estates on its £120 million acquisition of the Rathbone Place development site from Royal Mail. He has also represented Mitsubishi Estate in its purchase of two properties, 150 Leadenhall Street and 6-8 Bishopsgate, London, with a combined value of £127.5 million.

Ciaran Carvalho heads the real estate department. Peers consider him to be "an excellent lawyer - and hard-working." He regularly advises a range of domestic and international investors and developers.

Simon Staite is "pretty straightforward and doesn't mess around - easy to work with." He has advised on a number of high-profile transactions of late, including acting for Hammerson on its purchase of a portion of the Project Blue portfolio from St Martins Property Investments, namely two retail parks and four shopping centres.

Kevin Stimpson has worked with Simon Staite in the firm's work for Hammerson. He focuses upon major development, investment and financing matters for key clients.

Robert Raimes is considered to be "commercial, forward-thinking and engaged in listening to the client." He advised Brockton Capital on its £127.1 million acquisition of the Mailbox in Birmingham city centre. 

Norton Rose offer clients a comprehensive real estate practice, and the team can draw upon a considerable international network. Clients appreciate the firm's strong client-service ethic: "We always entrusted urgent and intricate matters to Norton Rose knowing that the job would get well done, and on time." Commercial awareness is also a strong point of this team, with sources citing the lawyers' "knowledge of the market, professional services, data accuracy, understanding of pertinent matters, and intellectual capabilities." One recent highlight includes advising CommerzReal on its £260 million sale of Aldermanbury in London. Other key clients include Europa Capital, Stena Realty and Park Plaza Hotels.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Lindsay Morgan is a "real pleasure to deal with," according to sources. She recently applied her considerable investment and development expertise to a number of key mandates, including the firm's representation of the Khoo Teck Puat Foundation in its purchase of a mixed-use office, leisure and retail building at 26-40 Kensington High Street, London.

David Sinclair heads the real estate department at the firm. He continues to advise DP World on its 1,500 acre London Gateway container port development, the build cost of which is approximately £1.5 billion. In other highlights, he has assisted with a number of acquisitions, including Europa Capital's £70 million purchase of an office and retail building at 1 Piccadilly Gardens in Manchester.

Daniel Wagerfield advises on investment, development and corporate occupant matters. He recently advised SP Setia, and its financial adviser RREEF, on a bid for the Battersea Power Station site in central London.

Partner Wasim Khan is seen as a key asset for clients: "He was a crucial player in the team, playing a key role in the strategic direction for our organisation in this project." He is particularly noted for his expertise in advising investors and developers based in the Middle East, having had experience working in the region. One recent highlight saw him advise the Al Faisal Holding Company on its £200 million purchase of the W Hotel in Leicester Square.

Olswang's real estate team has a strong client base of investors, developers and banks which it advises on acquisitions, disposals and developments. The firm has particular expertise in advising on shopping centre investments, while sources also note its international capabilities, which are exemplified by a notable Berlin real estate team. One particular highlight has been the firm's advice to Delancey on its £557 million purchase of the Olympic Village in Stratford. Clients say: "They are responsive to our needs and know our business and ethos. We get a quick response at the right level of seniority and have open access to them at all times." Key clients include Delancey, Legal & General and Nationwide.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Simon Kanter is described by admiring peers as "one of the best legal brains in property." He has advised on numerous high-value acquisitions and sales, including recent advice to F&C REIT Asset Management on its £165 million disposal of St Katherine's Dock, London.

Head of department Gary Watson has recently advised clients on major development schemes, although his expertise also extends to wider commercial real estate matters.

Jonathan Lewis is a key partner in this team, and he has been active on a number of transactions, including representing Ronson Capital Partners in a £62.5 million purchase of an office building on Chiltern Street in London.

Tim Westhead is hugely experienced in corporate and finance work, and his recent workload has included advising Liberty Living on its £200 million refinancing of a student accommodation portfolio.

Clients say that Martyn Needham "knows his stuff and explains it very well." He is particularly expert in the handling of retail sector transactions, which has recently included advice to Aberdeen Property UK Retail Parks Partnership on its £40 million disposal of St John's Retail Park, Wolverhampton.

This team has recently advised on a number of acquisitions, as well as representing both landlords and corporate occupants in commercial tenancy arrangements. Key work highlights include acting for Expedia and Hyundai as corporate occupants, and advising Development Securities on the £20 million sale of Westminster Palace Gardens, which involved the conversion of units from retail to residential. An illustrious client list includes Consensus/Rotch, Eurostar and Aviva, as well as major banks such as RBS and HSBC. Clients say: "We are very happy with them, because they are commercial in their advice, they quickly get to solutions and they serve your interest very well."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Colin Kearney has recently acted for Topland on its acquisition of the Brighton Metropole Hotel from RBS. Clients say: "He is an extension of our own team, and he is skilled in drafting documents which provide workable solutions."

William Gay, who was recently promoted to partner, is recognised for his "dedication to clients' needs, and attention to detail." He has been involved in the firm's acquisitions work for both Agilysis and Eskmuir Securities.

Nick Padget joined Osborne Clarke in May 2013. He has key expertise in property finance, which enables him to advise investors and lenders on a range of real estate matters. Clients consider him to be "clear, concise and accurate" in his pursuit of their interests.

Penningtons houses a large real estate practice which has been bolstered by its mergers with Dawsons and Wedlake Saint. Recent work highlights have included advising Redicent on its disposal of a landmark building at Sanctuary Buildings, Westminster. Other key clients include Aviva Investors, Santander and Charterhouse London Residential Fund.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Catriona Smith is hugely experienced in the commercial property sphere. She handles a range of acquisitions and disposals, joint ventures, developments and landlord and tenant matters.

Pinsent Masons houses a broad-based real estate offering which draws upon the firm's considerable strengths in the spheres of corporate, banking, planning, projects and construction work. The team is regularly seen on some of the largest real estate matters in both the private and public sector, and it has a notable hotels and leisure practice. As a result of its recent merger with McGrigors, Pinsent Masons has acquired a real estate team previously considered to be a leading mid-market offering. A major recent highlight was the firm's representation of Abstract Securities in its acquisition of a Croydon site intended as the location of a new office tower. In the retail sector, the firm acted for London & Associated Properties on the letting of two markets in Brixton, while its public sector work includes advising Hammersmith & Fulham Council on the development of a collaborative care centre in White City, including residential and retail aspects.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Claire Hughes leads the firm's hotels practice, and is also a qualified chartered surveyor. She advises key clients such as Accor, Jansons and HSBC.

Practice group head Adrian Barlow is widely recognised in the market, and has recently been expanding the firm's real estate work in the public sector. He is the first point of contact for key clients such as Royal Mail, London & Associated Properties and Smith & Nephew.

Nic Berry has considerable expertise in advising on PFI/PPP-related real estate matters, urban regeneration projects and the development and disposal of problematic sites, including those with associated environmental issues. He has continued to advise Capital & Counties on the Earls Court and Olympia regeneration project.

Linda Fletcher recently joined the firm from Bird & Bird. Her practice is centred around environmental issues relating to a range of real estate transactions, including acquisitions, developments and financings.

David Taylor joined the firm last year from DLA Piper to take up the position of senior consultant. Clients appreciate his ability to "see the whole picture," and they also cite the fact that "he thinks laterally, and is commercially minded." His recent work highlights include advising on the redevelopment of Napier Park and Stirling Place, Luton, the former site of the Vauxhall motor works.

Reed Smith houses a large real estate team which provides a comprehensive service to clients, and is able to draw upon wider strengths in the environment, construction and tax spheres, to name a few. It has advised on a number of development and investment acquisitions over the past year, with one major highlight seeing the Reuben Brothers instruct the firm on its £130 million acquisition of the Piccadilly Estate. The property group has also been part of a team advising Vestas on obtaining an option agreement to obtain the Port of Sheerness from Peel Ports, for the purposes of constructing an offshore wind turbine manufacturing and assembly facility. Clients say: "They understand our corporate objectives and have excellent commercial awareness. They know what the implications of decisions are and put it into a corporate context."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Clients find Andrew Jenkinson "commercial, professional and quick to respond." He led the team advising Telereal Trillium on its purchase of the Flagstaff portfolio, which involved a complex aggregation of a mixed portfolio of commercial properties.

Lawrence Radley's recent workload includes the representation of the Daily Mail Group in its £50 million acquisition of a development site in Thurrock, Essex. Clients regard him as a lawyer who "understands commercial sensitivities, is very responsive, good at drafting, and a pragmatist."

Mark Hargreaves is an investment specialist, and he has recently been assisting Workspace Group with its formation of a £100 million joint venture with BlackRock, for the purposes of property investment in South East England; this mandate also included advice on Workspace's sale of property to the joint venture.

RPC's notable real estate offering encompasses landlord and tenant matters, regeneration projects, acquisitions and sales, and investments, upon which it advises a diverse client base of corporate occupants, developers and investors. It also houses a very strong niche practice in the field of energy infrastructure, which is led by Sarah Cassidy. Clients pinpoint the firm's strengths in its ability to remain "very professional, efficient and proactive in resolving an issue," while its relative stability in recent years is also seen as a major benefit by some: "There is a continuity about the team which means we can rely on past transactions knowledge and their knowledge of our company." One key work highlight in recent times was the firm's representation of SCA AB on its purchase of numerous properties across 14 European jurisdictions as part of its EUR1.32 billion purchase of Georgia-Pacific's European Tissue operations. Other key clients include AstraZeneca, Clydesdale Bank and ICI Group.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Sarah Cassidy "always gives good and pragmatic advice," say satisfied clients. She heads the infrastructure team and has niche expertise advising energy companies on a range of pipeline and other infrastructure matters. Her recent work includes assisting RWE npower with its Willington gas pipeline, and representing Wainstones Energy in the acquisition of land for gas and water pipelines and other infrastructure necessary for its gas-fired power plant at Carrington.

This firm is noted for its considerable expertise in advising on investments and developments related to residential, commercial and mixed-use sites. The team also advises on commercial landlord and tenant matters, in particular on behalf of major retail sector clients. Clients appreciate the fact that "because they are practical and take a commercial view they make a deal happen fast." Recent work highlights include advising Mike Ashley on his sale of an £84 million retail property portfolio to Sports Direct International, and acting for Cubemaker Partnership on its £9.15 million acquisition of a retail park in Poole. Other key clients include Standard Bank Offshore Trust Company Jersey, Pret A Manger and the Ilchester Estate.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Peter Dawson heads the real estate department at the firm. He is noted for his expertise in advising clients on major house building projects and retail sector leases. He recently advised Landform Estates on complex negotiations relating to a proposed housing development on an agricultural site in Holt, in north Norfolk.

According to clients Helen Edwards "sees the imperatives of a deal quickly - she understands the pinch points and how the deal works for a developer."

SGH Martineau's real estate team continues to represent a diverse client base of investors, banks and numerous education and retail sector entities. Recent work highlights have included advising The Wiener Library Institute of Contemporary History on its underlease of a Russell Square property from Birkbeck College. Other key clients include Portland Food & Wine, NatWest and Active Private Equity Advisory (UK). The firm also has niche expertise in the leisure sector, where it acts for a number of the major pub companies in the UK. It has been representing J D Wetherspoon in its latest acquisition programme, as well as advising the client on property management issues. Heineken UK is another key client of the firm. Clients appreciate the firm's "highly professional and friendly service," as well as its lawyers' ability to "convey points very, very clearly."

KEY INDIVIDUALS Julian Joseph continues to lead the firm's client relationship with 99p Stores, which he has advised on its acquisition of numerous buildings and sites for new stores. 

Michael Shapiro has extensive experience in both the finance and leisure sectors. He is the key partner in the firm's representation of J D Wetherspoon. 

Shepherd and Wedderburn's London office houses a real estate team capable of handling a diverse range of matters, including an increasing volume of work for overseas investors and renewables sector clients. The firm has also advised on numerous public sector projects and student accommodation developments. In recent work highlights, the firm has been acting for the London Development Agency on issues surrounding leases of construction sites and landing points, as well as overflight rights, for the Emirates Air Line Cable Car project. Other key clients include SMart Wind, OLIM Group and Lloyds TSB.  

KEY INDIVIDUALS Stephen Hubner heads the real estate team at the firm, and is a key presence on many of the firm's major transactions. He is noted for his capabilities in international deals, where he is able to "handle international translation of terms and ideas to allow the transaction to be tailored to the local area."

This five-partner team is known for the consistency of its advice and its ability to provide "positive and effective solutions" to clients' problems. The firm has strong suits in its representation of high-end investor clients and corporate occupants, while it also advises clients on a range of issues arising from financing and restructuring. Recent work highlights have included assisting Four Seasons Healthcare with issues relating to its position as a landlord to Southern Cross. Other key clients include RBS, Threadneedle and the Ministry of Justice.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Nick Jones heads the real estate department at the firm.

This 15-partner real estate team advises clients on a range of acquisitions and disposals, development projects and funds work. SJ Berwin can also call upon a strong international network of real estate lawyers in Frankfurt, Munich, Madrid, Paris, Milan and Shanghai. Recent work highlights have included advising The Crown Estate in connection with its £1.8 billion Regent Street joint venture with Norges Bank Investment Management. Clients praise the firm's "very good service, they resource it well, they know the market well." Key clients include Schroders, The British Land Company and AXA Real Estate Investment.

KEY INDIVIDUALS David Ryland is highly regarded for "his knowledge, creativity, and sheer hard work," as well as for the fact that "his negotiation skills are outstanding" and "he knows the law inside out." Ryland has recently handled a number of cross-border transactions in Europe, encompassing work involving Belgium, Austria and Germany. He also has vast experience of the hotel and leisure sector, where he has advised Hilton on the restructuring of arrangements connected with the Adnams Portfolio and Caledonian Hotel.

International head of real estate Bryan Pickup is "very sensible and pragmatic," according to sources. He has recently advised Project Grande on the acquisition, financing, development and sale of One Hyde Park, Knightsbridge. He is also noted for his particular expertise in the hotel and leisure sector.

Highly regarded partner William Boss has been advising Marks & Spencer on the opening of a department store on the Champs-Élysées in Paris.

Slaughter and May remains a firm of choice for many clients seeking advice on big-ticket real estate transactions. Clients say that the lawyers are "always available, ready with imaginative solutions and show great initiative when called for." The firm advises clients on a range of acquisitions and disposals, development work and the property aspects of corporate transactions. Recent examples include its representation of Arsenal FC in its disposal of Queensland Road North East, a property located near to the Emirates Stadium. Other key clients include Punch Taverns, Grosvenor and NTT Urban Development Corporation.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Dermot Rice is considered to be "sensible and he gets the confidence of his client." His recent workload has included representing Derwent London in its £68 million sale of properties in Covent Garden in London to Capco.

John Nevin has been assisting with a number of development matters, including recent advice to Derwent London on the redevelopment of 1-5 Grosvenor Place, London.

Key partner Jane Edwarde worked with Dermot Rice in assisting Derwent London with its disposal of Covent Garden property.

This firm has a solid reputation for its advice to domestic and overseas investors and developers, as well as corporate occupants. Other key areas of expertise lie in urban regeneration projects and the property aspects of renewable energy and sustainability projects. The firm's illustrious client list includes RBS, the Howard de Walden Estate and Derwent London. One satisfied client summarises the firm's appeal as follows: "We believe that Speechly Bircham provides an excellent service across a broad spectrum of property-related matters. We always find them very responsive and able to work to strict timescales. They remain commercial in their approach and are able to see the larger picture."

KEY INDIVIDUALS 

Lee Medlock "is especially good on client care," as well as being "very competent, results driven and able to see the commercial imperative." He heads the investment and development group, which has recently seen him assist P&O Estates with the sale and development of Block D, Regent Quarter, Kings Cross.  

Squire Sanders is a go-to firm for development and urban regeneration projects, as well as advising a range of property investors and corporate occupants. The firm's recent workload has seen it act for Aviva Investors on its £40 million disposal of six investment properties, while it has also assisted Mindshare and Burson-Marsteller with a lease agreement. Sources say: "They are responsive, they're good value and they understand what we are trying to achieve." The firm's illustrious client list includes Quintain Estates and Development, Matrix Securities and Transport for London.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Christopher Brigstocke is the key contact at the firm for major development projects. His recent highlights include advising the London Development Agency on a £400 million joint venture with Quintain on the Wembley Regeneration Area.

Stephenson Harwood's real estate practice has a broad base of expertise, covering major acquisitions and disposals, redevelopment projects, landlord and tenant matters and hotel and leisure. Key work highlights include acquisitions for Metric Property Developments, and the sale of oil assets by Star Energy Group. Its major clients include HSBC, InterContinental, Prudential Capital and the German National Tourist Office.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Robert Newman specialises in hotel and leisure work. His recent workload has included advising public house and restaurant operator, ETM Group, on a range of matters, including its disposal of The Empress of India in Victoria Park, and the leasing of the Cadogan Arms in Chelsea and The Angel and Crown near Leicester Square. He also advises key hotel client Accor.

Marcel Haniff has been advising Arrowcroft Holdings on a mixed-use development site adjacent to Newhaven Port, which will feature a Tesco superstore. He specialises in development and regeneration projects, and his workload has also featured advice to Transport for London on the redevelopment of Tottenham Court Road Underground station.

Clients consider Stephen Laud to be "really up to speed - he knows the answers and is very intelligent." He handles acquisitions and disposals, refinancings and landlord and tenant work. He was part of the team advising the Financial Services Compensation Scheme on the lease of new office space at Beaufort House, London; this matter was complicated by the fact that the property was owned by the Libyan Investment Authority, which was affected by international sanctions.

Steptoe & Johnson continues to serve a strong core client base of developers, as well as private equity funds, and clients in the data centre and retirement home sectors. The firm impresses clients with its ability to serve their needs: "They are excellent at balancing the commercial objectives with practical legal response, and coming up with a legal solution to fit our objectives." Key clients include Santon Capital, Telecity Group and Albion Land.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Head of department Brendan Patterson has advised a range of clients on acquisitions, disposals and property management. For example, he assisted Coln Park with a residential development and the sale of luxury houses in the Cotswolds, with a development value of up to £200 million. Clients appreciate that he is "always looking for the best possible result for the customer - understanding what we want and also understanding our business."

Matthew Farmer has recently advised on a number of major developments, including assisting a joint venture company, owned by Rokeby Developments and Peveril Securities, with the acquisition, funding and construction of a retail park in Derbyshire.

Sam Kelly is considered to be "practical and bright," while clients say that he "understands our requirements and delivers." He regularly works with Brendan Patterson on key mandates, including the firm's recent role in Audley Court's £200 million acquisition and financing of ten luxury retirement villages.

Taylor Wessing handles an impressive array of investments, developments and projects for investment funds and trusts, corporate entities and charities, amongst others. Clients have "confidence in the service and advice - they provide good commercial advice, being reactive and proactive, and getting deals across the line." Major clients include Canada Life, McLaren Property and Abercrombie & Fitch. Hotel and leisure work is also a specialism of the firm, with sources noting that "their hotel knowledge is excellent." Key clients in this sector include The Ability Group, BDL Management and De Vere.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Richard Bursby heads the firm's hotels and leisure group. Clients say that he "really does understand hotels. He is plugged into the network of the industry and knows the trends." Recent work highlights include assisting Hesperia Hotels with its disposal of the Hesperia London Victoria to Crimson Hotels, and advising Deutsche Postbank on the refinancing of the Caledonian Hotel in Edinburgh.

Peers say that department head Keith Barnett "knows the client's interests, but gets the deal done. He has the experience to know the middle ground." His recent workload includes representing Heron International in its £500 million development of Heron Plaza in London.

Richard Grosse advises on a range of acquisitions, developments and sale and leasebacks, for clients such as Max Property and Saracens Rugby Football Club.

This firm represents clients in a range of matters, including transactions, property management, development and refinancing. The real estate group continues to advise AXA/Friends Life on property management issues, while other key clients of the firm include Maplin Electronics, HSBC and University College London.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Balbit Thandi is an "innovative thinker" who is considered to be "very sound in her commercial advice." She is a key partner at the firm, and her recent workload has spanned the commercial, retail and renewables sectors.

Travers Smith has an established presence in the London real estate market, advising real estate funds and big-ticket investors, and assisting corporate clients with the property aspects of complex M&A deals. The team recently assisted the Peel Group with its £1.6 billion sale of the Trafford Centre in Manchester to Capital Shopping Centres, one of the largest transactions ever to take place in the UK market. Sources say: "The team I have worked with consistently provides exceptionally good legal advice derived from excellent knowledge of the law and its interpretation. They show great interest in our business." The team's illustrious client list includes Pinewood Shepperton, Lothbury Property Trust and Meyer Bergman.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Department head Julian Bass led the team advising the Peel Group in its sale of the Trafford Centre. Clients appreciate that he is "knowledgeable of the law but extremely commercial," while peers also praise his commerciality and "sound legal mind."

Popular real estate lawyer Anthony Judge advises clients on a range of acquisitions and disposals and refinancings, especially in the retail and hotel sectors.

James Styles is "very commercially minded. He can cut through the nonsense - this is very beneficial to get deals done." He advised Lothbury Property Trust Company on its recent purchase of Windsor House, one of many investment deals he has been involved in of late.

This distinguished firm's client base is comprised of property developers, investors and private equity houses, as well as corporate occupants and major banks. The team advises on a full range of real estate issues, from transactions and investments to commercial landlord and tenant matters. Clients consider the lawyers to be "trustworthy, knowledgeable and resourceful," while also praising the "quality of service, relationship and ability to deliver under tight timescales." Recent highlights have included advising Caprice Holdings on the lease agreement for the new Balthazar restaurant in Covent Garden, and assisting AmeyCespa with property aspects of the North Yorkshire Waste Treatment PFI Project. Other key clients include BT, The Berkeley Group and Hermes.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Philip Peters leads the investment group within the real estate team, advising key clients such as Aegon, Aviva and Land Securities. Clients regard him as "very open and honest; he tells it how it is. He is exceptional on the client-service side." 

Wedlake Bell's nine-partner property team advises clients on key issues at each stage of real estate transactions, including acquisition, development and sale. Clients consider the firm to be "efficient, responsive and good value for money." Recent work highlights include acting for Greycoat Central London Office Fund on its £139 million disposal of a City of London office building to Hannover Leasing. Other key clients of the firm include Ashtenne Industrial Fund, CALA and A2 Dominion.

KEY INDIVIDUALS A key partner, Kim Lalli is regarded by clients as "very efficient, and both commercially astute and technically proficient." Her recent workload includes a number of acquisitions and development deals for key clients. As a fluent Hindi and Punjabi speaker, she is also well placed to handle an increasing volume of work for Indian entities.

Winckworth Sherwood's 11-partner real estate practice continues to impress sources with its diverse workload, including a number of innovative development deals. The team represents major house builders and developers including Barratt and the Berkeley Group, telecoms infrastructure clients such as Everything Everywhere, and a wide range of retailers and public sector entities. 

KEY INDIVIDUALS Key partner Francesco Ferrari recently advised L&Q on its agreement with British Gas to install solar photovoltaic panels on 2,000 of its residential properties.

Roger Fitton is noted for his "approachable, commercial and diligent" approach to matters. He represented Queensland Road, a joint venture between Barratt and L&Q Housing Trust, in its £26 million acquisition of a development site at the Emirates Stadium, which is intended as the site for three residential towers.

This firm focuses upon investment and development work for an illustrious client base. The team has recently advised Blackstone on real estate aspects of its £600 million purchase of the Mint Hotel chain. In other work highlights, it acted for Queensbury on its first development agreement, namely an agreement with Newport Council for a proposed £110 million retail development.

KEY INDIVIDUALS Peter Thorne is widely regarded as a key figure in the real estate market by respectful peers, who describe him as "a real Wragge stalwart," with "a lot of energy." A central figure in the firm's development and investment team, Thorne was recently involved in the firm's work for the developer Queensbury.

International head of real estate, Sally Pinkerton is a highly regarded consultant at the firm. She has also been acting for key client Queensbury of late.

Susan Bennett is joint-head of the firm's commercial development and investment team. She is regarded as a "fantastic lawyer - commercial, experienced and calm. She lets you know what you need to know."