Kate Instone takes us on a tour of her latest project at 40 Upper Brook Street, Mayfair

In the heart of London’s prestigious Mayfair district, 40 Upper Brook Street emerges as a timeless masterpiece, seamlessly blending historical elegance with modern sophistication. Created by Kate Instone, Founder of Blush International, this ambassadorial residence spans 2,230 square metres and stands as testament to the exquisite fusion of history and luxury living. 

This ambassadorial residence spans 2,230 square metres in the heart of Mayfair

Influenced by the art deco era and the works of Emile-Jacques Rulhmann, much of the furniture is original and sourced from the renowned Les Puces de Saint-Ouen antique district in Paris

Over the span of six meticulous years, Instone and her team of brilliant architects, engineers and artisans embarked on a journey to restore this Grade II listed property to its former glory while infusing it with contemporary opulence. The result is not just a residence but an immersive experience that sold for a staggering £100 million upon completion.

The stone staircase featuring a hand-forged iron balustrade by renowned artist Matt Livsey Hammon

A spectacular panelled drawing room where international sculptress and illumination artist Eva Menz has crafted the chandeliers

As one enters 40 Upper Brook Street, one is greeted by a double reception room exuding subtle grandeur and with delicately inlaid marble floors. The highlight of this entryway is the magnificent stone staircase, featuring a hand-forged iron balustrade by renowned artist Matt Livsey Hammond, inviting guests to follow its graceful swirl. The mirrored ballroom, reminiscent of Versailles’ Hall of Mirrors, showcases meticulous attention to detail and generates an atmosphere filled with light and grandeur. The first floor unveils a panelled drawing room adorned with chandeliers by sculptress Eva Menz, while a secret walled garden offers tranquillity amidst central London’s hustle and bustle.

The basement reveals
a complete wellness spa as well as a gym, salon, swimming pool, cinema and bar

On the second floor, the master bedroom suite is the epitome of luxury, with maple and leather accents, an Hermès chandelier and a bathroom adorned with quilted onyx and Calacatta Oro marble. Descending to the basement reveals a complete wellness spa as well as a gym, salon, swimming pool, cinema and bar, embodying the spirit of entertainment and relaxation. However, it is the hidden gem on the lower ground floor that truly mesmerises – the luxurious family room concealing a culinary sanctuary beyond compare.

Beyond a secret passage lies a culinary haven designed in collaboration with the client’s personal chef

Behind decorative metal doors by London artists Ian and Richard Abell lies a culinary oasis featuring state-of-the-art Miele appliances and a Sub-Zero fridge, seamlessly integrated into the room’s design. But the real surprise awaits beyond a secret passage – a culinary haven designed in collaboration with the client’s personal chef. A Wolf range commands attention amidst multiple Miele ovens, while a walk-in cold room keeps ingredients at their freshest, ensuring every dish embodies seasonal vibrancy. 

Kate Instone
Photography by Aasiya Jagadeesh

40 Upper Brook Street is not just a residence; it’s a symphony of historical architecture and contemporary luxury, a paragon of unmatched elegance that redefines the art of living.

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