Step into a time capsule and witness the construction of a legendary hotel, the London Hilton! This gallery offers a captivating collection of rare photographs capturing the evolution of the hotel, from the initial site preparation to its grand opening. Each image tells a story, with enlargeable views and descriptive captions ready to be explored.
Download your favorite images and share the fascinating history of this iconic landmark. Remember to credit ©famoushotels.org as the source!
Laying the Foundation: A City Transformed
1960: The ground was broken, and a vision began to take shape. This gallery provides a peek into the intricate planning and construction of the London Hilton. Imagine the bustle of activity as Conrad Hilton and Charles Clore reviewed the blueprints, their eyes fixed on creating a hotel that would define the skyline.
Construction was a monumental feat, requiring meticulous coordination and resourceful engineering. 3,700 tons of steel reinforcement, 175,000 square yards of shuttering, and 30,000 cubic yards of concrete were poured, all within a congested city center. The quantity of materials used was a record-breaking achievement!
The progress was remarkable, with each floor of the tower rising in a mere 5-8 days. The construction site was a hive of activity, a testament to the determination and ingenuity of those involved.
A Touch of Resistance: The Tenants Who Refused to Budge
Even amidst the construction frenzy, two unyielding tenants remained in their luxurious apartments, perched above the bustling building site. Michael Ferszt and William Hockman, residing in their third and fourth-floor flats, held fast to their seven-year leases. Their defiance was a testament to the luxury and charm of their homes, even as the city around them transformed.
Their refusal to budge was a fascinating side note to the monumental construction that was taking place. They became unwitting participants in this historic undertaking.
A Majestic View: The Rise of a Hotel Icon
Across the city, at the Dorchester Hotel, guests enjoyed unparalleled views of the rising London Hilton. The spectacle was a testament to the scale and grandeur of the hotel, a new landmark that was quickly becoming a beacon on the city’s horizon.
The finishing touches were underway, the hotel’s majestic facade emerging from the scaffolding and dust. The anticipation was palpable, as the city eagerly awaited the opening of this iconic landmark.
Royal Obstacles and Fashionable Uniforms
The Queen, a keen observer of the changing city, had her own concerns. To shield her privacy, she requested a row of towering trees be planted along her favorite walking path, creating a green barrier against the rising hotel.
Susan Shilling, a newly hired front office secretary, found herself in a world of strict tradition, where women were not allowed behind the front desk. However, her dedication led to a transformation in her role, culminating in a position as personal assistant to the hotel manager. She was rewarded with the privileges, once reserved for men only, enjoying access to the hotel’s luxurious amenities and services.
Hardy Amies, a renowned Savile Row tailor, brought his vision to the London Hilton designing iconic uniforms that reflected the hotel’s elegance and grandeur. His inspiration came from the grand English houses, creating a formal and stylish look that was in keeping with the hotel’s prestigious address. His designs were a testament to his talent and vision, establishing the London Hilton as a symbol of sophistication.
The Moment of Truth: A Historic Opening
The anticipation was mounting. A series of advertisements announced the grand opening of the London Hilton, using an hourglass as a visual metaphor for the unfolding of this landmark event. The world was watching.
This gallery captures the magic and excitement of the London Hilton’s birth. Discover the history of this iconic hotel, from its humble beginnings to its triumphant opening.
