St James's

, , , / London / September 2021 / 4500 sqft

Set in the heart of London, St James’s Townhouse is a rare architectural gem – a Grade II listed building dating back to 1685. Over the course of three centuries, it has evolved through many lives: from a pioneering Georgian residence, a lodging house, office building, and finally, once more, a private residence. This layered history and cultural significance called for a restoration that was both sensitive and imaginative, a challenge we embraced wholeheartedly.

The project was conceived as a full-scale revitalisation, not only to restore the building’s grandeur but to make it a truly functional space for 21st-century living. Our turnkey approach encompassed architecture, interior design, bespoke furniture, art curation, and styling. The result is a seamless integration of heritage and modernity, with a layout that supports both elegant living and professional use. The interiors balance flexibility and warmth, designed to feel equally at home hosting meetings or quiet weekends.

Our architectural response was rooted in a philosophy of ‘considered restoration’ – reinstating clarity and character while respecting the original structure. Period features, lost during its time as office space, were reintroduced through historically sensitive yet contemporary interventions. Materials such as oak, limestone, bronze, and linen bring warmth and tactility, while state-of-the-art systems were discreetly integrated to support comfort and functionality without disrupting the visual harmony of the space.

Navigating the complexities of a listed building required creativity as well as collaboration. From structural challenges to modern services integration, each phase of the project was shaped by a team of expert consultants and craftspeople. Sustainability was embedded throughout, from thermal upgrades to energy-efficient systems, ensuring the building not only honours its past but is equipped for a long and relevant future.

At its core, St James’s Townhouse is a celebration of timeless design and enduring craftsmanship. It is a home with a story which has now been restored with care and designed to last. It is now a space where heritage and innovation coexist effortlessly, and where every detail speaks to quiet excellence.