projects
8 Balderton Street,
London, UK
Designing a new landmark hotel in Mayfair
Enabling works have begun on the building destined to become one of London's most avant–garde hotels. The ReardonSmith designed hotel is being developed by Grosvenor and will be operated by Corbin & King Hotels, the company founded by the legendary restaurateurs Jeremy King and Chris Corbin. The project involves the conversion of a Grade II listed Art Deco style building in Mayfair, originally designed as a garage and most recently occupied by Avis Rent–A–Car, and is the culmination of a four-year search by Corbin & King Hotels and ReardonSmith for the right London site.
The feature which will no doubt draw the excited attention of international art and design commentators is a sculpture by artist Antony Gormley. Entitled "Room", it will sit above the building's south wing as a modular piece that will form one of the suites. Constructed in stainless steel, it is a concept that transforms the traditional idea of public art on a plinth into a habitable and fully integrated component of a busy hotel while creating a landmark for the area.
Sensitive extensions to the north and south of the existing building will achieve space for a total of 73 guestrooms and suites, a lobby bar/salon, a small private dining room, a spa and a destination restaurant.

