Evolution Investment Fund had unveiled a £1.1 billion capital commitment anchored by two landmark acquisitions in Mayfair.
Launched in 2025 by the Shanshal family, the fund has acquired a long leasehold interest in the 237-key, 198,000 sq ft London Marriott Hotel Grosvenor Square as well as the fully consented 8–10 Grafton Street & 22–24 Barlow Place luxury hotel development site on New Bond Street from O&H Grafton Developments.
The 157,000 sq ft Grafton Street and Barlow Place project will include 94 hotel keys and six luxury residences, with plans formed by Forster & Partners to deliver a 12-storey tower.
The combined investment, which includes development expenditure, signals what Evolution describes as a long-term conviction in London’s luxury prospects. Separately, the fund has appointed Nadhim Zahawi as a director to the boards of the UK acquisition entities.
Why it matters
This deal reinforces London’s resilience, even amid political and economic uncertainty at a time when capital is increasingly selective. And it may serve as a bellwether: when new capital of this scale appears, others often follow.
What they said
A spokesperson for the Shanshal family said: “Our first two acquisitions in Mayfair are much more than prime London assets; they represent our long-term conviction in the enduring quality, resilience and global appeal of this magnificent city. We plan to invest significantly in these locations, driven by a firm belief in their exceptional long-term appeal.”
Nadhim Zahawi, director of the acquisition entities added: “I’m delighted to have joined the two UK boards at this exciting stage of Evolution’s history. I look forward to using my experience to support the Shanshal family and team to deliver world class luxury hospitality assets in Mayfair and in the UK.”