The Hilton London Metropole, a renowned hotel nestled on the vibrant Edgware Road, just a stone’s throw from Paddington Station and London’s bustling West End, has undergone a remarkable transformation. This iconic hotel, the largest Hilton outside of the U.S. and one of Europe’s most expansive conference hotels, boasts 46,000 square feet of versatile conference space, capable of accommodating up to 3,000 delegates. The hotel’s location, historically a vital route for goods entering the city, now serves as a convenient base for travelers arriving at Heathrow Airport, allowing them to explore London’s rich culture and diversity.
Blending Functionality with Design: A Comprehensive Building Services Strategy
The refurbishment project aimed to breathe new life into the hotel while aligning it with contemporary guest expectations. A comprehensive building services strategy was implemented, encompassing mechanical ventilation, heating and cooling systems, electrical infrastructure, main cabling, lighting, domestic water, drainage, fire alarm and sprinkler systems, and the rollout of a Building Management System. This extensive approach brought 800 of the hotel’s 1,000-plus bedrooms, two conference centers, and all public areas to the standard expected by discerning travelers.
London’s Rich History Inspires a Modern Interior
The hotel’s interior design draws inspiration from London’s fascinating history, elegantly showcased in the lobby, bars, restaurants, meeting rooms, gym facilities, and the West Wing entrance. The Hilton London Metropole’s commitment to excellence has been recognized by the World Travel Awards, with the hotel being named Europe’s Leading Conference Hotel 2023. This prestigious award reflects the hotel’s commitment to providing exceptional experiences to its guests.
A Refined Executive Lounge for Elite Guests
The Executive Lounge, exclusively accessible to Hilton Honors members, is a testament to the hotel’s dedication to providing premium experiences. Our team collaborated closely with architects to create an elegant space that meets the highest standards. The limited ceiling height presented a unique challenge, which we overcame by discreetly integrating fan coil heating and cooling units behind architectural features such as TV joinery and within the walls. To enhance privacy while allowing natural light to flood the space, glazing has been cleverly masked, while Barrisol ceiling panels have been incorporated into the existing glazed roof, resulting in a sophisticated and comfortable space for guests to work or meet with clients.
Guest-Centric Technology for Enhanced Comfort and Energy Efficiency
The hotel’s guest experience has been enhanced through the installation of a new Building Management System in the bedrooms. This system provides guests with greater control over their room’s comfort and ambience through new, efficient fan coils and room temperature controls. The system also allows for future integration with the reception, enabling personalized room environments to be pre-set based on guest preferences before check-in.
Sustainable Solutions for a Greener Future
The hotel’s commitment to sustainability is evident in the energy efficiency improvements implemented throughout the refurbishment. Replacing the building facades and windows enhanced room insulation, while the creation of the new Presidential Suites, spacious and luxurious private guest spaces, involved meticulous surveys to ensure the feasibility of connecting new building services to existing risers. This innovative approach provides flexibility, allowing the space to be presented as an entire suite or as separate rooms, as required.
A Gastronomic Destination: Tyburn Kitchen and Sports Bar
Tyburn Kitchen and Sports Bar, named after the stone found in the East Wing entrance, was created by removing a staff room from the level above, enabling the creation of a double-height ceiling that evokes a sense of space, inspired by Covent Garden. Fan coils are discreetly concealed within the walls and integrated into banquette seating. Guests can indulge in the restaurant’s delicious offerings while recharging their devices with ample power points strategically placed throughout the space, creating a destination designed for meeting, eating, and working.
Back-of-House Modernization for Improved Efficiency
The back-of-house kitchens underwent modernization and refurbishment, with an upgrade of equipment and ventilation systems. This comprehensive approach ensures that the hotel maintains its high standards of food and beverage offerings throughout the refurbishment program.
A Striking Central Market Café: Meeting Fire Safety Standards
The Central Market Café features a unique aesthetic inspired by Borough Market. The sprinklers were extended to the same level as the foliage hanging from the ceiling, ensuring compliance with fire safety standards while preserving the desired aesthetic. The hotel’s engineering team also delivered standard building engineering services within the café and the Whisky Bar.
A Sustainable Future for Hilton London Metropole
The entire refurbishment project has been undertaken with a strong focus on sustainability and energy efficiency. The hotel’s new engineering design ensures efficient operation, while empowering guests with greater control over their environment, enhancing their overall stay at Hilton London Metropole.
