Berkeley Arcade Residences, Mayfair Receive Approval from Complex Planning Committee
The Berkeley Arcade Residences, a highly anticipated luxury residential development by the esteemed team of Development Manager Iain Johnson from Rigby & Rigby, Architects - Pilbrow and Partners lead by Fred Pilbrow, Gareth Wilkins and William Wickers. Planning consultancy Gerald Eve lead by Alex Neal and Interior Design by James Ashfield and Paul Jones from Rigby & Rigby, have received approval from an extremely complex and detailed planning committee review in Westminster, London. This decision marks a pivotal moment in the revitalization of one of the city's most iconic and affluent neighbourhoods, with the rare and unique opportunity to develop a new Arcade connecting Curzon Street to Stratton Street enabling huge benefits for the community.Located in the heart of Mayfair, the Berkeley Arcade Residences realises a visionary urban design exercise in townscape planning. The project, designed by Pilbrow & Partners, supported by Rigby & Rigby features an exquisite blend of classical elegance and contemporary innovation, catering to the discerning tastes of its future residents. The development will encompass a range of branded restaurants, gym, social spaces and refined retail offering, along with high-end apartments and strategic penthouses, each meticulously crafted to offer refined comfort and luxury.
The approval process was notably rigorous, reflecting the high stakes and community interest involved in such a landmark project. The major planning committee, known for its stringent standards, thoroughly reviewed various aspects of the development, including architectural design, environmental impact, and community benefits. Rigby & Rigby's and Pilbrow’s proposal impressed the committee with its commitment to maintaining Mayfair's historical charm while introducing modern, sustainable living solutions which are considered sustainably credible with a focus on elegance, amenity and wellbeing for residents."We are thrilled to receive the committee's approval for the Berkeley Arcade Residences," said Iain Johnson, CEO of Rigby & Rigby. "As scheme close to my heart and particularly for our client who has persevered on this complex journey, this project represents our honest dedication to creating exceptional retail, commercial and living spaces that harmonize with their surroundings. We believe the Berkeley Arcade Residences will enable so much for Mayfair and the residents with the introduction of this once in a lifetime opportunity to create this new active frontage to Curzon street and the arcade, it will be the first new arcade in London in over 100 years."The development is expected to bring significant benefits to the Mayfair area. In addition to providing state-of-the-art residences, the project includes plans for enhancing the public realm with improved pedestrian access, green spaces, art installations and retail offerings. These enhancements aim to boost the local economy and create a vibrant, welcoming environment for both residents and visitors.
Fred Pilbrow comments -"As architects for 65 Curzon Street, we have greatly enjoyed the creative collaboration with Iain Johnson and his team at Rigby & Rigby.The new galleria connecting Stratton and Curzon Street will restore a link closed since the 18th century. It promises a fundamental shift in Mayfair’s geography, providing the most direct connection between its two principal gateways – Green Park and Bond Street stations.We look forward to the next stage of the project’s realisation."
Community response to the project has been largely positive, with many locals expressing excitement about the potential uplift to the street, pedestrianisation access and enabling and neighborhood. However, some concerns were raised regarding the scale and impact of the development, during the construction process for which Rigby & Rigby has pledged to address these concerns through ongoing dialogue with community stakeholders and by implementing measures to minimize disruption during construction and delivery.Construction of the Berkeley Arcade Residences is scheduled to begin next year, with completion anticipated in 2027 / 2028. As the project moves forward, it promises to transform Mayfair's landscape, blending the area's rich history with further confirmation of a prosperous and stylish future.About Rigby & RigbyRigby & Rigby is a leading design and development firm known for its innovative designs and commitment to excellence. With a portfolio that includes some of the most prestigious, residential, yachts and commercial projects in London and worldwide, Rigby & Rigby continues to refine and realise the benchmark for refined luxury living and sophisticated design based on its research and methodology approach - Having being the first studio in the world to be accredited with the Butterfly kite mark by positive luxury and delivering several carbon neutral developments over recent years.
