Overall: Highly recommend Claire and the inside of her flat; but can't recommend the very immediate neighborhood. Claire is lovely - responsive, friendly, reliable, accommodating, and receptive. Inside her flat is comfortable, charming and eclectic in a good, stylish (also minimal) way. And great panoramic views that make you really enjoy cozying up on the couch. Outside her flat is often noisy and often smokey from neighbors so be aware of that if you want open windows. We didn't know what to expect from an "award-winning government building" but the upkeep of the building itself was somewhat dingy. We found the immediate neighborhood (few block radius) to be a real disappointment. No charm, not much life/activity, and a fair amount of shady seeming characters. It wasn't a safety concern; just not the London community experience we hoped for. "Gritty" is the term we most often heard from locals to describe the area. So it wasn't ideal for us (family with young kids on extended stay) but realize it could suit others absolutely fine. On the plus side about the area, nearby Hoxton Square (just beyond the immediate neighborhood) is fun for young singles; and very nearby Shoreditch Park has a good playground and a neat indoor pool for young kids. I feel badly about giving a mixed review, again because Claire and her home are so lovely. But I really wish in any of the prior reviews I'd read, that someone would have mentioned more about the very immediate neighborhood. It would have influenced our decision or at least better managed our expectations coming in. Thanks.