Rigby & Rigby Help Client to Secure Blue Plaque Award

Rigby & Rigby Architecture is proud to announce its instrumental role in assisting a distinguished client in Belgravia to achieve Blue Plaque status for their stunning Georgian home. This prestigious recognition, granted by English Heritage, honours the house as the former residence of the celebrated violinist Yehudi Menuhin, who lived there during his later years.

The Blue Plaque scheme, a mark of historical significance, is a highly sought-after accolade. Securing this recognition requires meticulous research, compelling documentation, and collaboration with heritage authorities.

Rigby & Rigby worked closely with the client, delving into the rich history of the home and its notable connection to Menuhin. Known for his extraordinary contributions to classical music, Yehudi Menuhin was one of the most renowned violinists of the 20th century. His association with the property added substantial cultural value, enhancing its legacy.

Yehudi Menuhin, one of the greatest violinists of the 20th century, had a profound connection with London and the UK, where he became a much-loved cultural figure. Born in New York in 1916, Menuhin was a child prodigy who performed at Carnegie Hall at the age of seven.

However, his early life was marked by immense pressure and personal struggles, particularly during his teenage years and following the traumas of World War II.

After the war, Menuhin faced the challenge of regaining his artistic confidence. His playing, which had dazzled audiences as a child, was affected by physical and emotional strain. With immense dedication, he overcame these obstacles, reinventing himself as a mature artist known for his profound musicality and emotional depth.

In the post-war years, Menuhin made London his second home, particularly cherishing his residence in Belgravia. In his top-floor studio, Menuhin not only practiced but also shared his extraordinary talents as a teacher. He mentored numerous famous musicians, fostering a legacy of artistic excellence. Among those who sought his guidance were luminaries from the classical world and beyond, enchanted by his passion and generosity.

Menuhin’s relationship with the UK blossomed into a lifelong bond. He performed frequently in London, earning adoration for his interpretations of Bach, Beethoven, and Elgar. His humanitarian efforts, advocacy for cultural unity, and the founding of the Menuhin School in Surrey further solidified his standing as an icon in Britain. As both a musician and a global citizen, Yehudi Menuhin’s legacy continues to inspire, with London playing a central role in his remarkable journey.

In July 2023, the home was officially presented with its Blue Plaque in a heartfelt ceremony led by Julian Lloyd Webber, an acclaimed cellist and leading advocate for music and arts. Alongside English Heritage, Lloyd Webber commemorated the residence’s historical significance and celebrated Menuhin’s enduring legacy.

This achievement underscores Rigby & Rigby’s commitment to going beyond architecture, ensuring that our clients’ properties resonate with historical and cultural prestige.

By managing the application process and facilitating collaboration with key stakeholders, we helped highlight the home’s exceptional heritage, providing our client with not only an architectural gem but also a home celebrated for its illustrious past.

Rigby & Rigby is dedicated to delivering unparalleled client service, blending architectural excellence with a passion for storytelling. The recognition of Yehudi Menuhin’s home as a Blue Plaque site is a testament to our ability to honour history while shaping the future.

Mark Cowley - Studio Director Architecture

“Our commitment to our clients often extends above and beyond the traditional offerings of an RIBA accredited practice as we understand the passion and love our clients have for their homes. We love assisting our clients where we can especially when its celebrates the heritage of their home”