Testament to the greatness of London is the fact that it has no shortage of such addresses. Across the capital, landmark buildings have been thoughtfully reimagined, while a new generation of hotels is bringing fresh ideas to architecture and interiors alike. Hankering after the stately elegance of Mayfair? In the mood for some clean lines in always-glam Knightsbridge? Something deeply creative spirit in Fitzrovia and Shoreditch? These are the hotels where design is every bit as important as hospitality.
Hero image: The Chancery Rosewood
The Chancery Rosewood, Mayfair
The most talked-about hotel opening of recent years is housed within the former American Embassy on Grosvenor Square, no less. Sterling-scooping architect Sir David Chipperfield and designer Joseph Dirand have transformed Eero Saarinen's modernist landmark into a remarkably elegant all-suite hotel, softening its monumental architecture with warm stone, walnut, brass and beautifully crafted furnishings. Grand and intimate, it’s a masterclass in contemporary luxury.
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The Emory, Knightsbridge
If The Chancery is all about reinvention, The Emory is gleamingly new. Opened by the Maybourne group, this sleek glass-fronted building overlooking Hyde Park is one of London's most architecturally ambitious hotels. Inside, suites have been created by a roster of internationally acclaimed designers, including Patricia Urquiola and André Fu, resulting in spaces that feel like exceptional private apartments.
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Nobu Hotel London Portman Square
Combining Japanese minimalism with contemporary London sophistication, Nobu's Marylebone outpost is a lesson in restraint. Natural materials, muted palettes and carefully considered details create an atmosphere of calm that extends from the bedrooms to the celebrated restaurant below.
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The Twenty Two, Mayfair
Housed within a handsome Edwardian mansion, The Twenty Two strikes a clever balance between private members' club and sumptuous luxury hotel. Its rich colours, layered textures, antiques and contemporary art create interiors are decadent yet welcoming – precisely the sultry sort of place to spend the autumnal nights as they stretch ahead. Come for a night; stay all weekend.
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Raffles London at The OWO
One of London’s most ambitious heritage restorations, Raffles London at The OWO former Old War Office has been transformed into an Edwardian-grandeur-meets-contemporary-luxe. Magnificent staircases, soaring ceilings and meticulously restored historic details are paired with sophisticated modern interiors, making it one of the city's most impressive addresses. If you can’t make it to Singapore, get thee to Raffles London.
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The London EDITION, Fitzrovia
Set within a restored Victorian building, Ian Schrager's London EDITION – surely one of the capital's most influential hotels – combines period architecture with clean-lined contemporary interiors, bespoke furniture and a buzzy creative atmosphere . Expect to clap eyes on the fashion, design and media crowds, who are drawn like elegant moths to chic flames.
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The Beaumont, Mayfair
For lovers of Art Deco, nowhere does it better. Conceived as a glamorous grand hotel from that most perfectly glamourous of eras, The Beaumont is all supreme, immaculate yet restrained comfort, as opposed to nostalgia. Rich woods, polished metals and beautifully proportioned rooms evoke the elegance of transatlantic travel at its most sophisticated and, well, that’s just how we like it, frankly.
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The Standard, King's Cross
Occupying the former Camden Town Hall Annexe opposite St Pancras Station, The Standard brings a playful energy to London's luxe hotel scene. Colourful interiors, bold furniture, unexpected artworks and a healthy disregard for convention make it feel refreshingly different from many of its more polished rivals. Bedrooms balance retro influences with contemporary comforts, while the rooftop restaurant and bars offer some of the best views in the area. Full of ultra confident personality, it’s a hands-down favourite among creative Londoners and visitors alike.
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Broadwick Soho, Soho
Does minimalism leave you cold? Then consider Broadwick Soho, which may just be your dream hotel. Designed by Martin Brudnizki, it revels in exuberant colour and pattern, almost as if touches from Italian glamour, English eccentricity and the vanishing hedonism of old-school Soho have been put in a big cauldron of design and, well, it’s sensational. Jewel-toned velvets, lacquered surfaces, antique pieces, deep theatricality – every inch of it feels like a glamorous private residence imagined by someone with impeccable taste and a very healthy decorating budget.
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One Hundred Shoreditch, Shoreditch
One Hundred Shoreditch captures East London's creative spirit but without the clichés so prevalent in many less accomplished competitors. Formerly the Ace Hotel, we love its rooftop bar, lively restaurants and strong connection to the local creative scene. One of the best bases from which to explore this part of the city.
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FAQs
What makes a hotel design-led?
A design-led hotel places architecture and interiors at the heart of the guest experience. Every detail — from furniture and lighting to artwork and materials — is carefully considered.
Which London hotel has the best contemporary design?
The Chancery Rosewood and The Emory are currently the city's standout contemporary design hotels, both offering world-class architecture and interiors.
Which hotel is best for classic glamour?
The Beaumont and Raffles London at The OWO excel at combining historic character with luxurious modern comforts.
Which London hotel do creatives tend to favour?
The London EDITION remains a favourite among fashion, media and design professionals thanks to its stylish public spaces and lively atmosphere.
Are design hotels always expensive?
Not necessarily, but many of London's most celebrated design hotels sit firmly in the luxury category. Hotels such as The Standard and One Hundred Shoreditch offer a more accessible entry point.
Which London neighbourhood is best for a design-focused stay?
Mayfair currently leads the pack, thanks to openings such as The Chancery Rosewood, The Twenty Two and Raffles London at The OWO, though Fitzrovia and Shoreditch offer a more contemporary, creative feel.
