A Closer Look at This Year’s Fair Design
Discover the Mayfair landmarks, architectural details and unexpected characters hidden within Adam Ellis Studio’s fantastical design for the 2026 LAPADA Berkeley Square Fair.
This year, Berkeley Square will be transformed by an extraordinary new artwork created by Adam Ellis Studio. Inspired by the rich history and architecture of Mayfair, the design reimagines the neighbourhood as a fantastical world of grand buildings, curious characters and unexpected encounters.
Drawing on the tradition of historic tapestries, the richly detailed illustration will wrap around the fair’s marquee, creating a striking new addition to Berkeley Square for the duration of the event.
But look a little closer, and there is much more to discover.
Mayfair, Reimagined
Throughout the artwork are references to some of Mayfair’s most recognisable buildings and architectural features. Annabel’s, Brown’s Hotel, the Royal Arcade and the Ritz (illustration 1) all make appearances, alongside the historic buildings of Berkeley Square itself.
Among the more intricate details is a decorative motif adapted from the façade of 44 Berkeley Square, originally designed by William Kent in 1740 for Lady Isabella Finch and later home to the famous Clermont Club (illustration 2)
Even the familiar railings surrounding Berkeley Square have found their way into the illustration.
A World of Unexpected Details
Alongside these familiar landmarks, the studio has introduced elements of fantasy and eccentricity, reflecting the unusual stories and characters that have shaped Mayfair over the centuries.
Sculptures from London’s historic gardens also appear throughout the design, including the Triton Fountain in Queen Mary’s Gardens (illustration 3) and Hylas and the Nymph (illustration 4) from St John’s Lodge Gardens, chosen to complement Berkeley Square’s own Lansdowne Fountain.
Butterflies, botanicals and intricate decorative details are woven throughout, rewarding those who take the time to look closely.
From Illustration to Installation
Creating an artwork on this scale presented an unusual challenge for the studio. Unlike an interior mural, the design needed to work from across Berkeley Square as well as at close quarters.
Large, theatrical portals create an immediate visual impact, while the smallest details retain the richness and intricacy for which Adam Ellis Studio is known.
The result is an artwork designed to be experienced at different scales, from its dramatic presence across the square to the individual stories waiting to be discovered within it.
See the design come to life at the LAPADA Berkeley Square Fair, 27 October – 1 November 2026.
