Last week, we had the opportunity to go behind the hoardings at Cambridge House on Piccadilly, where Ardmore is leading the transformation of this Grade-I listed former ‘In and Out’ club into a 102-key luxury hotel and seven super-prime residences.
As the main contractor on the project, our work involves a delicate balance of complex structural alterations to expand the existing building, while preserving its original architectural integrity of the three historic buildings: Cambridge House (Grade I listed), and 90-93 and 95 Piccadilly (Grade II listed).
Centred around the historic Palladian mansion, known for its iconic portico and ballroom, the complex scheme blends sensitive restoration, retention and new build. We are working closely with Westminster City Council’s conservation officer and Heritage England to ensure the integrity of these historic buildings is maintained.
Restoring the listed buildings presents distinct challenges. We are required to retain as much of the original fabric as possible, while recreating missing elements using traditional methods.
For example, original plasterwork is preserved where possible, while newly manufactured sections mimic the original craftsmanship. The columns and pilasters in the ballroom will be carefully matched and reinforced to preserve their historic appearance while improving durability to suite the new building use.
Even small details, such as timber samples, must undergo rigorous testing to determine whether they can withstand future wear. If deemed unsafe, we replicate them exactly, with special attention to the elaborate herringbone patterns.
Challenges also arise with the heritage façade and stonework. For example, work on the chimneys had to be carefully managed to avoid damaging the historic exterior.
Existing stone had to be expertly cut thinner to fit the new wall structure while preserving the original stone finishes.
This project is a truly remarkable journey in both preserving rich history and enhancing it for the future.