Having moved to LDN a few years back, I can already see Streatham Hill and Brixton slowly gentrifying. Though I am involuntarily part of it. I'd like to think I don't blindly participate in it.

As a data scientist, Gentrification is funny as it is somewhat an explore/exploit issue. Aren't ppl moving there for some explore but very quickly maximize their exploit? They want to move to an area that is exciting and different, and allows for their money to go a bit farther. But then they forget that they need to allow the environment to change them and instead seek out the same lifestyle they've always had. As you mentioned: cafes, shops focused on designer items...things that flatter the ego.

I really appreciate that you wrote a section for gentrification. It is a part of a cycle that has some virtue. Gentrification should be a dialogue, an continuous exchange. Unfortunately the financial weight of newcomers is often too great not to be dominating the conversation by sheer purchasing power....