Maddox Tavern

Client: Enhanced Hospitality
Address: 41 Maddox Street, Mayfair, London
Completion: 2022
Scope: Concept and detailed interior design
QS: M2PS
Contractor: Brynwell

Steeped in history and situated just off London’s iconic Bond Street, Maddox Tavern occupies a stunning Grade II listed building originally constructed in 1892 for tailor William Cooling. Once frequented by Winston Churchill, the building had been closed for a number of years before undergoing a full transformation to reopen as a sophisticated all-day brasserie in Autumn 2022.

Design I.D. was appointed to deliver a sensitive and stylish design that honoured the building’s heritage while creating a new destination fit for the high-end Mayfair market. The project was proudly featured in Premier Hospitality magazine.

Design Brief & Objectives:
 

The brief was to create an elegant, welcoming brasserie with the superior finishes and finesse expected by Mayfair clientele. Crucially, as a listed building, no interventions were permitted to the original fabric, including ornate plasterwork, original mahogany fittings, or architectural layout.

Designer Justin Prior commented:
“The building is beautiful and due to its listed status, we were not allowed to touch any of the building fabric — which includes some very ornate plasterwork. The design concept was therefore geared to retaining and complimenting the original character of the interior.”

Alongside the aesthetic and functional brief, the site required remedial works to address water penetration and general disrepair, as well as the installation of a new state-of-the-art kitchen to serve the modern hospitality offering.

Respecting Heritage, Elevating Experience

Key original features such as the mahogany display cabinets, fitting rooms, and mezzanine were retained and thoughtfully integrated into the new design. Lighting was carefully specified to highlight the ornate plaster detailing and historic joinery, creating a warm, atmospheric interior that feels both storied and sophisticated.
Mahogany was used throughout to honour the original palette, with new materials and finishes layered in to elevate the space without competing with its heritage.

Zoned for All-Day Dining
The interior was carefully zoned to suit different dining experiences throughout the day:

• Entrance Area: Guests are welcomed into a casual breakfast dining space, framed by restored mahogany cabinets and striking feature walls. The atmosphere is relaxed and refined, setting the tone for the rest of the venue.

• Bar Area: Positioned to the right of the entrance, the bar features a zinc countertop, illuminated by pendant lighting. Mid-height tables and semi-height stools create an informal but stylish space for drinks and light bites.

• Main Restaurant: Located at the rear, the main dining space features leather-inlaid, square tables and wooden-backed banquette seating. The flexible layout allows tables to be easily rearranged for larger parties or private events.

• Private Dining Rooms: Three intimate private dining rooms are tucked away in what were originally the tailor’s changing rooms. These secluded spaces offer a unique dining experience steeped in history.

Design Considerations

• Lighting: Layered and warm, designed to enhance original architectural features and ensure ambience throughout the day and into the evening.

• Furniture & Fixtures: Every item was selected with the Mayfair market in mind — from premium upholstery and elegant timber finishes to refined metal detailing.•    

• Circulation: A key design consideration was easy flow between zones, ensuring seamless transitions from casual dining to bar service and private events.

Outcome
 

The design for Maddox Tavern pays homage to its 19th-century roots while delivering a first-class hospitality experience. Through careful restoration, refined detailing and a considered layout, Design I.D. has helped bring a once-closed landmark back into Mayfair’s vibrant fold — with all the poise and polish its heritage deserves.