1, Connaught Street W2

This building at 1 Connaught Street, London W2, is a corner bank constructed around 1850-1860. It is an example of a rich Italianate design, resembling an arcade casino. The exterior is finished with channelled stucco, and the roof is covered with slate. The building is three storeys high and six windows wide, featuring a prominent arcaded façade. Two main window bays flank a central pair, with narrower windows at each end; a main entrance bay is positioned alongside a narrow window on the return arcade facing the Edgware Road. The recessed architraved doorway is set within an arcade bay and features inset Ionic columns. The main window bays on Connaught Street are accentuated with Ionic pilasters. A deep impost entablature runs over the door and window heads, incorporating lunettes. The channelled stucco is struck to the arcade arches, exhibiting a vermiculated voussoir pattern and keystones. A modillion cornice and balustraded parapet with taller dies complete the architectural detailing.