Prime London, Grosvenor Gardens

The brief:

As a returning client, Prime London requested MPL take the design blueprint it created for the agent’s Lambeth office and apply this to its new premises at prestigious Grosvenor Gardens, Belgravia. The brief included working around a number of original features and creating a separate space ready for sub-letting purposes.

Our approach:

We liaised closely with the client to understand the constraints of working within a heritage building in one of London’s most prized Conservation Areas. The premises was built in 1867-68 as the National Bank, and was lastly occupied by a high-end restaurant and bar. Stripped of its aesthetic contents, MPL could assess the three storeys that it was responsible for designing and refurbishing.

Our evaluation noted a number of huge internal structural columns and an intricate ceiling with highly decorative mouldings, which would be incorporated into our new interior design. Open plan spaces were to be divided into new areas for both staff and visitors. Stud walls and Crittall-style glass partitions were added to create a six-person meeting room and a semi-screened waiting area.

On brand using MPL’s prior blueprint

Once again, the fittings and fixtures were chosen to appeal to a high-net worth audience of property buyers, with themes from the Lambeth branch replicated for continuity and brand reinforcement.

Familiar elements include timber slat feature walls, marble-effect Dekton surround mounted TV screens and a sophisticated colour palette. The latter – a very dark shade of navy blue – has been applied to the imposing Tuscan structural columns that pierce internally through the ground and first floors.

A bespoke tea point has been installed on the ground floor and a more complete kitchen on the first floor. Together, they feature a combination of handle-free cabinetry in matt navy blue, open shelving, marble-effect Dekton stone worktops with matching splashback, a drinks fridge and integrated appliances.

Extensive electrical installations

A comprehensive electrics programme was executed. This spanned new power sockets, data outlets and Cat6 cabling; wiring for internal and external illuminated signage and window displays; power and data for wall TVs; the supply and install of a new lighting system; the fitting of new hand dryers and wall heaters, and all associated works.

Space ready for instant subletting

The basement was approached as a Cat A fit out, ready for the client to sublet. Added were stud walls with insulation, drylining and plastering where required, and a new plasterboard ceiling. Internal doors were upgraded, a new kitchen installed and two shower rooms created – one for Prime London and one for the incoming tenant.

Additional elements

MPL sourced and fitted new skirting to new walls, matching the existing style; specified and fitted new cloakrooms; installed new flooring with inset door mat; made good areas where wallpaper had been removed, and replaced all the shades in the inherited chandelier.