Stepping into the London Edition hotel is like stepping into a work of art. The lobby is an open, soaring space, designed like a glass cube, that will leave you in awe. A dazzling silver orb hangs from the high, beautifully plastered ceiling, while a fabulous portrait graces the fireplace. It’s a truly theatrical scene, fitting for a hotel conceived by the iconic Ian Schrager, just a stone’s throw from London’s vibrant West End.
A Grand History with Modern Flair
The hotel itself has a fascinating history. It was once five Georgian townhouses that were combined into the Berners Hotel in 1908. The gorgeous Belle Époque building, with its stately columns, is a designated landmark in the U.K. After being closed for a decade, the space was meticulously restored by designers Yabu Pushelberg. They even replaced half of the marble floor tiles, which had been lost over time, with new ones sourced from old English estates. Today, the lobby buzzes with social activity, complete with velvet couches and an antique billiard table.
A Symphony of Art and Design
The boldest element in the lobby is a shiny, six-foot-tall, egg-shaped pendulum created by the renowned German lighting artist Ingo Maurer. It’s impossible to miss, and its reflection adds to the room’s visual intrigue. And if you think you’ve seen the tapestry behind the reception desk before, you’re right—it’s a reproduction of a Gobelin that was used in the film “The King’s Speech.”
As you head towards the elevators, you’ll encounter artist Chul Hyun Ahn’s striking Portal, a series of 3D circles behind glass. The ambiguous depth creates an intriguing optical illusion.
Art is woven throughout the hotel. Dutch photographer Hendrik Kerstens’ work, featuring his daughter Paula dressed in a modern Vermeer-ish style, is prominently displayed in the rooms. And in the lobby, you’ll find a gold-framed photograph of Paula on horseback, titled “Toy Rider.”
Culinary Delights and Signature Drinks
Downstairs, you’ll find Berners Tavern, the hotel’s award-winning restaurant helmed by star chef Jason Atherton. While the name might suggest a casual tavern, the space is anything but. It boasts a high, plastered ceiling and stunning chandeliers. The menu features sophisticated local cuisine, with dishes like beef Wellington and black truffle mashed potatoes.
At the wood-paneled Punch Room, bar manager Davide Segat brings historic punch recipes to life. He’ll happily explain the five main ingredients: alcohol, sugar, lemon, water, and tea or spices. In the late afternoon, he offers Scandal Water pairings of teas, punches, and small bites.
A Vibrant Neighborhood and Art Scene
The London Edition has played a significant role in the revival of the Fitzrovia neighborhood. With new developments, including Facebook’s headquarters, and the transformation of the old Bourne & Hollingsworth department store into a new shopping venue, the area is experiencing a resurgence. The hotel is just a short walk from Regent’s Park, the British Museum, and a growing number of art galleries.
Sam Hacking, the hotel’s Artist in Residence, offers guided tours of the neighborhood’s art scene. She can lead you to the Photographers’ Gallery and provide insights into current exhibitions, like the Gregory Crewdson: Cathedral of the Pines, which features stunning tableaux by the Brooklyn-born photographer.
A Luxurious Haven
For a little more physical activity, the hotel has partnered with Tokyobike to offer sleek bikes for guests to explore the neighborhood or the city. And for the ultimate Fitzrovia experience, the hotel’s 2,100-square-foot, wood-paneled Penthouse, with its spacious terrace, offers breathtaking views of the area.
A Touch of Luxury Before and After Your Stay
For travelers arriving from New York on a Virgin Atlantic flight, the London Edition is a welcome destination for a leisurely lunch. And upon returning home, business class passengers can enjoy a seamless experience through the Private Security Channel at Heathrow Airport.
Before boarding, indulge in the newly renovated Heathrow Clubhouse. It offers restaurant seating, a deli counter, and even hanging pod chairs. With a pool table in a loft space and spa treatments, the Clubhouse is an adult playground, perfect for relaxing before or after your London adventure.
The London Edition is more than just a hotel; it’s an immersive experience. Whether you’re seeking art, culinary delights, or simply a luxurious escape, this hotel promises an unforgettable stay.
