Grosvenor Square in Mayfair, Central London, is the second largest garden square in the capital and was once one of the most prestigious residential areas in the city. The development began in around 1721 and the homes became the residences of numerous members of the aristocracy, including lords, ladies, and dukes.

Over the years the area has been home to some of the most stunning residential architecture London has to offer. The original properties were between five and seven stories tall, some featuring basements and attics. Many of them were rebuilt towards the end of the 18th century or in the 19th century. One of these was by architect Robert Adam and was considered to be among his most impressive works. Sadly this and many of the other homes were again demolished and rebuilt.

Many of the properties on the square changed from residential use following World War II. Some were replaced by offices and embassies, the most famous being the American Embassy built in 1960. The building is architecturally significant and possesses a Grade II listing. The American diplomats moved to a newer embassy earlier in 2017 but the listed status means the facade of the property will be retained even if the building is converted for new use.

Recent projects are seeing Grosvenor Square go full circle and return to residential use. A big part of this is that the green parkland itself has changed hands and the plan is to host a number of events in the area. On top of this some of the prominent buildings will become homes. One Grosvenor Square, the US embassy before 1960 and subsequently home of the Canadian High Commission, will become 44 residences. Twenty Grosvenor Square will also be transformed.

It will be interesting to see what the new pieces of residential architecture have to offer. The project at One Grosvenor Square will be particularly exciting because the facade of the property as well as the interior is being changed. The original exterior is being carefully dismantled, ensuring every brick is stored carefully and transported so it can be rebuilt elsewhere at a later date.

At Coffey Architects we appreciate all of the amazing residential architecture London is home to. We are always excited for high profile projects like the ones above and can’t wait to see what the new developments look like.