Ultra-prime developer Caudwell has appointed the Duke of Devonshire’s Heywood Hill to curate a private library at its £2bn 1 Mayfair scheme, drawing inspiration from historic European collections.
The development, positioned as one of London’s most exclusive residential addresses, will comprise 24 principal homes and five pied-à-terre residences arranged around a central garden, alongside spa, concierge and hotel-style services delivered by Dorchester Collection.
The library will form a central feature of the scheme, designed to reflect the grandeur of the Rossi library at Pavlovsk Palace, with interiors by J.P. Molyneux Studio.
The space will include bespoke joinery, marble detailing and curated furnishings, alongside more than 1,000 books selected specifically for residents.
HEYWOOD HILL COLLECTION
Heywood Hill, which has curated private libraries globally since 1936, will assemble the collection, including works spanning literature, history, travel and art, as well as a dedicated section focused on London.
John Caudwell (main picture, right), Founder of Caudwell, says: “Throughout history libraries such as those of Aristotle, Alexandria, Pavlovsk, Congress and the Bodleian have been places of learning, contemplation and interaction.
“The private library at 1 Mayfair is an extremely special reading room and we needed a world-renowned specialist to help curate its content. We chose Heywood Hill who are renowned amongst bibliophiles over decades for their ability to locate special books and curate libraries for passionate readers and the literary curious alike.”
INTELLECTUAL PERSONAL TRAINING
Nicky Dunne (main picture, left), Chairman of Heywood Hill, adds: “Our aim is to assemble nourishing books for the spectacular reading room at 1 Mayfair where people can embrace the joy of reading and immerse themselves in beautiful and fascinating books.
“Just as residents will be able to enjoy personal fitness training in the gym at 1 Mayfair the library will be a place of intellectual personal training since reading provides inspiration and escapism for the human mind.”
Photo Credit: Horst Friedrichs
Stoker Cavendish, the 12th Duke of Devonshire, says: “Heywood Hill are delighted to be part of such an important Mayfair development such as 1 Mayfair which is on our doorstep.
“With our experience and expertise in library curation and the spectacular design and attention to detail of the library at 1 Mayfair we believe that the collaboration will create a marvellous library for residents and visitors to enjoy.”
The scheme is scheduled for completion in Q1 2027, with prices expected to start from £35m.
