INTRODUCING THE HOUSE OF WALPOLE ‘MEET THE MAKERS’ SERIES

March 2022

The Meet the Makers series has been created to showcase the key contributors for the House of Walpole, a one-off residence at No.1 Palace Street that highlights the very best in British Luxury and Craftsmanship. Designed by Walpole member Oliver Burns, The House of Walpole will feature iconic pieces from British luxury brands, such as the beautifully crafted wallpaper by Cole and Son.

This month we had the opportunity to hear more about the project from Sharon Lillywhite, Founding Partner of Oliver Burns in an exclusive interview.

What was the inspiration behind the design?

The inspiration for our design comes from the palace gardens, which are steeped in history and intrigue and have long been a focus for national and royal celebrations. House of Walpole is a modern re-telling of our favourite stories from this treasured sanctuary; an endless source of inspiration that has been weaved through the design in both a subtle and overt way to create a love letter to the garden’s enduring beauty, transformation, and resilience.

Can you explain the vision for the House of Walpole?

Our vision for the space is to create a ‘one of a kind’ super-prime home that honours the heritage and pedigree of the location and celebrates the very best of British. From interiors, fashion, beauty, and art through to food, drink and automotive, we have taken a thoughtful, multi-sensory approach to the brief that mixes both timeless British institutions and the new guard in a thoroughly modern way. This design goes beyond the aesthetic to reflect our ethos of Thoughtful Luxury and is underpinned by The Northacre Way.

Why did you choose No. 1 Palace Street?

No.1 Palace Street is an iconic location with a beautiful mix of architectural styles. The listed Buckingham Gate façade which the stunning duplex apartment sits behind is the jewel in the crown of this heritage revival. It has wonderful views of Buckingham Palace and its private gardens, amazing history and has been exquisitely restored by Northacre for modern living. I love the high ceilings (over 3m) and the gorgeous balconies. It’s the perfect backdrop for The Home of British Luxury Craftmanship.

What is your favourite story from the palace gardens and how have you applied this to the interior design?

My favourite story from the palace gardens is a love story. Over 150 years ago Queen Victoria and her consort, Prince Albert planted plane trees to celebrate their anniversary. The broad canopies of the pair of trees now reach up and touch one another, symbolising the royal couple’s enduring love. As a tribute to this story, we asked Helen Amy Murray to create a stunning 3m high hand-sculpted feature art wall in varying degrees of relief that represents these sublime trees. Such a beautiful story for an incurable romantic.

What will you be most proud of on completion?

Bringing together Britain’s best loved luxury brands in one ultra-luxurious space has been a real labour of love! The teamwork involved from our team, Northacre and Walpole has been immense and to see our vision come to life will be a proud moment. I’m delighted that we’ve been entrusted to capture the inherent beauty of this regal address, and I’m looking forward to raising a glass to her Majesty whilst looking out over this enchanting garden.

Thank you Sharon for this fantastic interview.

No.1 Palace Street is nearing completion and we are pleased to announce that, as well as the House of Walpole, the world-class facilities are advancing well. The landscaping of the private courtyard is progressing at pace whilst the emerald green tiling of the outstanding 20-metre pool is being laid and the grand, porte cochère entrance is nearing completion.

With the final touches being made to No.1 Palace Street, including the light and airy reception area with its spectacular cantilever architectural feature, we can’t wait to reveal the fantastic restoration of this masterpiece in the summer.

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