The spaces can be transformed for auction, exhibition or event purposes and exposed to as much or as little daylight as necessary. The ceilings are removed and the services raised as high as possible to create an airy saleroom with 2.77m floor-to-ceiling heights, taking advantage of the generous proportions of the commercial tower itself. Flexibility is achieved with folding acoustic wall panels which are either closed to create long walls for hanging art, pushed aside to make a large single space or two salerooms, or partly closed to create several spaces that can act as galleries.
Partitions are specially designed and manufactured to rotate, giving flexibility to open at right angles and create smaller niches responding to the particular kind of art that is being displayed. Permanent offices and interview rooms sit to the sides of the space. The design includes a dramatic linear gallery and, at the centre, a reception area that can be relocated when the entire floor is needed for a party or sale. The usual set-up will be reception in the middle and one gallery or saleroom on either side. The use of leather, timber and stone express durability and quality; the reception desk is fronted with quilted leather and topped with dark stone.
The new building continues the high-tech theme of the Mayfair showroom, sophisticated AV systems, online bidding, and high-quality LED lighting – looks like a large rooflight above the reception areas is actually an illuminated background with changing colours to respond to sales, events or exhibitions.