Central London’s hotel scene perfectly blends historical grandeur with contemporary design innovation. From restored heritage buildings to modern architectural marvels, these ten design hotels offer unique aesthetic experiences while maintaining the highest standards of luxury and service.
1. Broadwick Soho
Set in London’s vibrant Soho district, Broadwick is a creative masterpiece designed by Martin Brudnizki. This 57-room boutique hotel embodies the spirit of 1960s Italian design with a dash of vintage glamour. The property features maximalist interiors with bold patterns, rich textures, and an eclectic mix of vintage and contemporary furnishings. The jewel-toned color palette and dramatic lighting create an atmosphere that perfectly captures Soho’s artistic heritage.
2. Ham Yard Hotel, Firmdale Hotels
Kit Kemp’s distinctive design aesthetic shines throughout this urban village-style property. The hotel is built around a tree-filled garden with a bronze sculpture centerpiece. Each of the 91 rooms and suites features unique design schemes with bold colors, mixing patterns, and handcrafted elements. The property includes a 1950s bowling alley imported from Texas and a rooftop garden with sweeping London views.
3. The Beaumont Hotel
Housed in a 1926 Art Deco building, The Beaumont combines classic elegance with contemporary comfort. The hotel’s striking exterior features ROOM, an inhabitable sculpture by Antony Gormley. Inside, the design pays homage to the 1920s with wood paneling, monochrome photography, and period furniture, while maintaining a modern sensibility. The American Bar, with its dark wood and leather upholstery, feels like stepping back in time.
4. One Aldwych
Located in a historic Edwardian building at the heart of Covent Garden, One Aldwych showcases sophisticated contemporary design. The lobby features a double-height ceiling with an impressive Boatman sculpture and regularly changing art installations. The rooms combine muted tones with bursts of color, featuring bespoke furniture and original artwork. The hotel’s subterranean pool with underwater music exemplifies its innovative approach to luxury.
5. Cheval Three Quays at The Tower of London
This contemporary apartment-hotel offers spectacular views of Tower Bridge and the Thames. The design emphasizes clean lines and floor-to-ceiling windows that frame London’s historic skyline. Interiors feature a neutral palette accented with maritime-inspired artwork and sophisticated furnishings. Each apartment combines practicality with high-end design elements.
6. Raffles London at The OWO
Housed in the former Old War Office building, this architectural masterpiece combines Edwardian Baroque grandeur with contemporary luxury. The restoration preserved original features while introducing modern design elements. Thierry Despont’s interior design pays homage to the building’s heritage while creating spaces that feel thoroughly contemporary. The grand marble staircases and ornate ceilings contrast beautifully with modern furnishings.
7. Milestone Hotel Kensington
This Victorian mansion turned luxury hotel offers individually designed rooms that blend traditional British elegance with contemporary comfort. Each space tells its own story through carefully curated antiques, rich fabrics, and unique artwork. The design maintains historical integrity while incorporating modern luxuries, creating an atmosphere of timeless sophistication.
8. The Peninsula London
The newest addition to London’s luxury hotel scene, The Peninsula showcases classical architecture with Art Deco influences. The interior design, led by Peter Marino, features hand-painted de Gournay wallpapers, bespoke furniture, and museum-quality art. The hotel’s design pays tribute to British craftsmanship while incorporating Asian design elements that reflect the brand’s heritage.
9. The Savoy
A London icon, The Savoy seamlessly blends English Edwardian and Art Deco styles. The recent renovation maintained the hotel’s historic character while introducing contemporary elements. The famous American Bar features Art Deco details, while the Thames Foyer showcases a stunning glass dome. Each room combines period features with modern amenities and design touches.
10. 15 Basil Street, Knightsbridge
This boutique property in Knightsbridge offers a contemporary take on classic London luxury. The design emphasizes clean lines and neutral tones punctuated by bold artwork and sculptural lighting fixtures. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame city views, while custom furnishings and high-end finishes create an atmosphere of understated elegance.
These design hotels represent the best of London’s architectural heritage and contemporary creativity. Each property offers a unique interpretation of luxury hospitality through thoughtful design, showcasing everything from classic British elegance to cutting-edge modern aesthetics. Whether you’re drawn to historical grandeur or contemporary innovation, these hotels provide extraordinary visual experiences alongside world-class service and amenities.