The brief was to create a hotel where social and private spaces would be connected on all levels, while avoiding the ‘rabbit warren’ of corridors often associated with hotel designs.

The concept was developed around a five-storey atrium, with rooms wrapping around the building’s external envelope. Walkways overlooking the atrium provide access to all rooms, while allowing natural light and air to penetrate deep into the building’s interior.  This innovative spatial design maximised the number of guest-rooms achievable per floor.  

Along with the approach to the interiors, early discussions with the local planning authority enabled the introduction of a new penthouse level without disturbing key views within the local conservation area. By reconsidering the roof area and moving plant elsewhere room space was increased to create seven rooftop studios with private patios.

The result was an innovative yet sensitive solution that reinvented the inner-city hotel experience, putting environmental design top of the agenda. The hotel uses energy-saving technology and eco-friendly materials wherever possible.  Water drawn from the hotel’s own 1500-foot bore-hole to the London Aquifer beneath the building supplies the complimentary bottled still and sparkling water that is offered to all guests.

We worked with the client and design team from inception through to completion.