THE BOOK
With a strong voice, this book is a captivating testimony that resonates with students in architecture, parents, adventurers, musicians, and artists alike, offering a universally appealing and heartfelt narrative.
THE BOOK
"The ‘what, who, when and where’ in this book are extraordinary. Paul has created houses, adaptations, interiors, sound studios and stage sets for a galaxy of amazing people, great estates and rock bands in London, LA, Tokyo and almost every hip-hop-happening city in between. He has worked during London’s period of most change since the Great Fire. What makes ‘Mr Chelsea’ such a rewarding read, and insightful book are the ‘how and why’. His motivation, commitment and inspirations are all described with immense candour, engaging anecdotes and charming modesty. Quite simply, Paul has always wanted to use architecture to work for people and to make lives better. Like many of the greats in the Rock’n’roll world, Paul’s conventional virtues of diligence and imagination would have made this ‘rebel’ a success in any field; fortunately for the rest of us he achieved his wish to be an architect."
Everyone has a story …
Setting off from leafy Dulwich, Paul discovers the electrifying music of the late 60s, legendary gigs, light-shows and student rebellion. Artist and architect heroes inspire precarious travels to North Africa and Iran in a search for the sustainability and longevity of indigenous cultures.
Back in London, he finds work for Grosvenor and Cadogan Estates whilst simultaneously being commissioned by the rock ‘n roll world. Radical recording studios to meet the changing technology of music production lead to stage sets and musicians houses: Ringo Starr, Roxy Music and Duran Duran all enjoying Paul’s ability to inject individuality into their homes.
Early battles with planners turn to respect and hundreds of reinvented historic buildings in Westminster, Kensington and Chelsea; most notably the Duke of York campus at Sloane Square, the Saatchi gallery and Cadogan Hall as home to the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.
Collaborations with Thierry Despont and Thomas Heatherwick broaden his perspective and portfolio. Projects in the Far East bring new challenges and awards. An incurable romantic, Paul’s story illustrates the value of place and memory above isolated icons.
"Just looking through now… this is fantastic! 🤍"
THOMAS HEATHERWICK
PHOTO SNAPSHOTS
A small selection of images as featured in the finished edit.