The designated area features substantial detached mansions set in extensive gardens. Many are listed buildings designed in the Arts and Crafts style by prominent Edwardian architects such as C.E. Bateman and Edwin F Reynolds.

The designation has prevented the demolition of these mansions and created a millionaires row since only the very wealthy can afford to buy and maintain such large houses.

Redevelopment is difficult as exemplified by the attempt to rebuild a fire-damaged villa at 22 Ladywood Road that was designed by W.H.Bidlake in 1902; in this case, the developer was served with enforcement notices and required to apply for retrospective planning permission because incidental Edwardian features were altered.

As a result the house was still empty and wrapped in scaffolding in October 2010, five years after the fire damage had occurred (News Archive 22/10/10).

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Four Oaks Methodist Church stands on the corner of Lichfield Road and Four Oaks Road; its square tower and west window dominate the junction.

This grade-two-listed building was constructed in grey sandstone to a design by Crouch and Butler in 1907-08.