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History In The Making: Tour The Whiteley's Latest Ultra-Elegant, All-English Residence
New life breathed into an iconic London building honours both purpose and place
Whether you are a born and bred Londoner or a recurring visitor to the capital, you'll no doubt have heard about Whiteleys department store in some capacity. Conceived by its namesake William Whiteley, its first iteration was as a drapery shop on Westbourne Grove which opened in 1863. It moved, in 1911, to a bigger purpose-built store on Queensway which was considered to be the 'largest shop in the world' and the 'most beautiful store in the United Kingdom'. This bastion of luxury and lifestyle was further extended between 1925 and 1927 to incorporate the iconic Grade II-listed frontage that stands today. It closed in 1981, reopening eight years later as a shopping centre, before eventually shuttering completely in 2018.
But another incarnation awaited. A Dhs4.9 billion revival into The Whiteley to build a landmark residential and hospitality destination home to Six Senses' first London hotel, luxury residences and The Designer Collection. The latter comprises a series of luxury apartments, with the latest residence just unveiled.
A first-of-its-kind collaboration in the UK, the apartment has been conceptualised by RH Contract, bringing the design authority of RH – formerly Restoration Hardware – to this spectacular three-bedroom, duplex home.
Exceptionally spacious, the apartment unfolds over 4,000 square feet, with 6.1-metre ceilings, and an open-plan layout with herringbone floors that establishes a spatial flow.
Stunning arched windows amplify both natural light and views, while the mezzanine houses the master bedroom, which elegantly floats over the living area below. Interiors blend classic European elegance with modern refinement, where serene hues of soft beige, white and warm caramel tones couple with striking lighting design, such as the Rain Round chandelier by master glass designer Alison Berger. RH furnishings dress each room, with pieces like the Matteo Sofa, Scala Chair and Lara Dining Chair adding both comfort and refinement.
Make your home here and you'll be in good company. The design of the prestigious Whiteley development incorporates a multitude of functions, from shops and restaurants, to leisure and Six Senses' five-star hotel. But beyond the building, the redevelopment breathes new life into the neighbourhood, creating a connection for its community with its past and present.
A one-of-a-kind residence that encapsulates the iconic legacy of this landmark building, its future is for the taking.
