Phillips auction house boasts both Napoleon and Beau Brummell as former clients, and is to unveil a new headquarters at the heart of Regency London. The contemporary art specialists have announced plans to relocate its European headquarters to Berkeley Square. They will be joining the likes of Rolls-Royce, and Jack Barclay Bugatti dealership in the exclusive Mayfair location. A move that reflects the auctioneer’s Park Avenue counterpart in New York.
Opening its doors at the start of Frieze art fair in October, with a 31,000 square foot space occupying three floors of the seven-storey building and will include exhibition areas, auction rooms.
The grand building has been designed by architect Aukett Swanke – who restored London’s Royal Exchange and the city’s Lanesborough Hotel. The location boasts bespoke lighting and solid oak staircase in the foyer.
Last October Bonhams unveiled its new £30m headquarters close to Berkeley Square on New Bond Street; reflecting a growing trend among international auction houses to update for the 21st century.
“We are thrilled to relocate our European Headquarters to the heart of Mayfair,” said Ed Dolman, Phillips’ chairman and chief executive officer. “This spectacular new auction and exhibition space in Berkeley Square represents another important step in the evolution and growth of the business. We look forward to contributing to the infusion of art, design and culture in this unique and exclusive enclave.”
Exhibition areas will debut with a collection of sculptures curated by Italian art afficionado Francesco Bonami.
Bidding begins at 30 Berkeley Square on October 15 with the inaugural Contemporary Art Evening Auction.