Billionaire John Caudwell on a mission to create the most prestigious address in the world
An imposing solid-stone mansion in London's Mayfair may look as if it has prevailed from the last century but it is, in fact, the new kid on the block. Where there was once a brown brick hotel with jagged edges and a gaping entrance to a multistorey car park, a British billionaire has created a property whose exterior could come from the pages of PG Wodehouse. Audley Square is one of London’s…
A billion-dollar entrepreneur has embarked on a mission to craft the most prestigious address in the world, transforming a dilapidated property in London's Mayfair. John Caudwell, a property developer and philanthropist, bought the site in 2011 and invested £2 billion in a £2 billion development of 1 Mayfair, a luxury apartment building intended to be the "most prestigious apartment building in the world."
The 24 ultra-prime residences, along with five staff suites, boast prices starting at £35 million, with some exceeding £200 million. The first show apartment, a five-bedroom 6,523-square-foot residence, is on sale for £83.7 million. Caudwell's vision encompasses unparalleled quality, soundproofing, and a coffered ceiling that conceals pipework and air-conditioning units while promoting a healthy indoor environment.
The building's design incorporates grand porticos, columns, and Portland Stone, as well as unique features inspired by historical figures like Hollywood actress Elizabeth Taylor and the Maharani of Baroda. Despite the massive investment, Caudwell emphasizes his passion for the project, stating that the financial rewards are not a primary concern.
He expects around 4,000 wealthy individuals worldwide to be interested in purchasing one of the luxurious apartments, with 25 showing serious intent. The remaining 3,975 potential buyers, he notes, can opt for cheaper alternatives in less exclusive locations.
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