HomeLocationA New Kind of Hotel: Where You're a Resident, Not a Guest

A New Kind of Hotel: Where You’re a Resident, Not a Guest

Imagine a hotel where you feel like you’re at home, not just a temporary visitor. That’s the vision behind The Other House, a unique long-stay accommodation experience that redefines what it means to be a hotel guest.

Instead of the traditional hotel experience, where you’re expected to be a passive recipient of services, The Other House empowers you to take control of your stay. This philosophy extends to every aspect of the experience, from housekeeping to dining, creating a truly personalized environment.

The Other House

A Home Away From Home

The Other House embraces a “residents’ club” concept, emphasizing a sense of belonging and comfort. You’re not just a guest; you’re a resident, with the freedom to shape your experience according to your preferences. This philosophy is evident in the unique housekeeping approach: you choose how often your room is cleaned, and you pay for the level of service you desire.

Personalization is key. You’re not bound by strict meal schedules, instead choosing from room service, restaurant dining, street cafes, or even takeout. The focus is on providing a comfortable and familiar environment, where you feel at ease, free from the stuffy formality often associated with hotels.

The design of the accommodation further reinforces this home-like atmosphere. Club flats, the majority of the accommodations at The Other House, feature a layout reminiscent of a traditional home, with the living room leading to the bedroom. This intimate, familiar layout contrasts with the typical hotel room where you walk straight into the bedroom. Even the main entrance with the lift straight ahead and the reception desk tucked off to the side creates a sense of arriving at your own apartment building.

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The Convenience of a Concierge in a Familiar Setting

While the idea of a “residents’ club” may seem tailored to the post-pandemic world of remote work and travel, the concept has its roots in a deeper understanding of the needs of urban dwellers. The Other House was conceived in 2012, long before the pandemic reshaped our travel habits.

Founder Naomi Heaton, with her extensive experience in the London property market, recognized a gap in the market. She saw a need for hotel-like services in rented accommodations, like concierge services, gyms, and housekeeping, thus giving birth to the residents’ club concept.

Coincidentally, the rise of remote work and hybrid work models has made long-stay accommodation more appealing than ever. This type of accommodation caters perfectly to professionals who need to stay in London for a few days each week, offering a convenient alternative to renting a full-time apartment.

Sustainability at the Heart of the Experience

The increasing popularity of longer trips is also driving a shift towards more sustainable travel. By staying in one place for longer, travelers can reduce their carbon footprint and enjoy a more immersive experience. The Other House embraces this trend, implementing sustainability measures throughout the property.

The minimalism in the bathrooms, for example, is a conscious effort to reduce waste. While it may initially seem sparse, the absence of single-use amenities like cotton wool buds and nail kits is a powerful statement about the hotel’s commitment to reducing waste. The Other House doesn’t assume what guests want, instead offering optional amenities upon request, cutting down on unnecessary consumption.

The hotel also provides residents with an app that tracks energy consumption, encouraging them to adopt more sustainable practices.

To make their breakfasts more sustainable, some hotels have scrapped the buffet formula altogether.

A Space for Connection and Comfort

The Other House stands out from the typical business hotel with its welcoming and vibrant atmosphere. Unlike the hushed, formal spaces often found in business hotels, The Other House encourages interaction and connection.

Shared spaces facilitate interaction with fellow residents, while private flats provide a haven for those seeking solitude.

The hotel actively embraces the idea of relaxation and comfort, recognizing the need for downtime after a busy day. A post room on the ground floor offers a convenient pick-up point for deliveries, encouraging residents to enjoy the comforts of their own space.

The travel industry has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, and the rise of long-stay accommodation is a testament to the changing needs and desires of travelers. The Other House fills a gap in the market, offering a unique and personalized experience that caters to the modern traveler seeking comfort, convenience, and sustainability.

Rates for Club Classics at The Other House start from £350 (€407) per night, with longer stays of 90 days or more costing £995 (€1,157) per week.

The Other House

Reference photo

The Other House
Henry Bennett
Henry Bennetthttps://londongreens.org/
Henry Bennett is a well-respected travel journalist with a particular interest in London’s culinary scene, nightlife, and cultural events. With years of experience covering travel and lifestyle topics, Henry’s writing captures the essence of London’s dynamic atmosphere. His guides offer readers an insider’s view of the best places to eat, drink, and be entertained in the city.

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