Sketch Has Transformed Into a Georgian-Inspired Wonderland

A dining emporium on Mayfair’s Conduit Street, sketch is renowned for its eye-catching interiors – but this season, the venue has stepped things up a notch. The space – which features four uniquely designed restaurants and a bar – has been transformed into a festive extravaganza, complete with floral displays, art installations and live performances. 

This year’s theme is ‘A Georgian Christmas’, inspired by the origins of the building in which it is housed, which was designed by architect James Wyatt in 1779. The aesthetic evokes the style of the era, with spectacular displays from floral artists JamJar Flowers, Figa & Co and Ricky Paul.

Upon arrival, guests will arrive through an entrance bedecked in wreaths, garlands, bay and mistletoe, alongside red velvet bows and preserved roses. The festive experience will be heightened with the scent of spices, cloves and cinnamon wafting through the air. 

Near the entrance sits a luxurious boudoir, complete with a chaise longue and draped curtain – and beside this, a handmade ball gown and elaborately dressed wig appears to float above the ground. There’s a good photo opportunity here (one of many): if you step into the right position, it looks like you’re wearing the dress, and two ribbons will allow you to pull the wig down. Around here, you’ll also find a life-sized white peacock sitting atop a stone plinth.

Next, wander over to The Glade, sketch’s 18th century-style tea room, which has been spruced up by Figa & Co. The display features five sparkling chandeliers hanging at varying heights, alongside four illuminated Georgian-style candelabras placed against the wall.

Florist Ricky Paul, meanwhile, was in charge of The East Bar & Pods, and the three Michelin-starred Lecture Room & Library. Here the ‘eyecatcher’ garden urn symbol is reinterpreted in different ways: The East Bar has been adorned with cascading Georgian urns filled with festive florals, while an installation made from sparkly palms will sit on top of the Instagram-famous pod loos.

To top it all off, guests will be treated to live daily performances from ballerinas, and have the chance to tuck into a festive afternoon tea filled with sweet and savoury treats. Could this be sketch’s best display yet?

‘A Georgian Christmas’ runs from 16 November 2022 – 6 January 2023, sketch.london