Ian Schrager, the iconic American entrepreneur and hotelier behind legendary venues like Studio 54 and Morgans, is known for his audacious approach to design and his unwavering commitment to excellence. When he throws his hat into the ring, you can be sure the outcome will be exceptional. His latest venture, The London Edition, is a testament to his visionary style, marking his grand return to London after a 15-year absence.
This hotel, part of a global chain, is anything but generic. Schrager’s “hotel as lifestyle” philosophy shines through, creating an intimate microcosm of London’s vibrant energy. It attracts a discerning crowd of the rich, famous, and fashionable, making it the coolest place to stay in town. Nestled in Fitzrovia, a charming neighborhood just a stone’s throw from Oxford Street and Soho, The London Edition offers the perfect blend of urban convenience and tranquil respite.
A Masterpiece of Design
The hotel occupies a historic Georgian building, preserving its majestic façade while breathing new life into its lavish interiors. Renowned designers Yabu Pushelberg and I.S.C. Design Studio have expertly fused elements from the building’s rich past, creating a multi-faceted jewel that honors its architectural heritage. Schrager’s appreciation for the power of design is evident throughout the hotel, drawing on his collaborations with iconic figures like Philippe Starck, Herzog & de Meuron, and Andrée Putman.
The hotel’s story stretches back to 1835 when it was originally built as five interconnected townhouses. It was later transformed into Berners Hotel in 1909, a hub of Edwardian glamour that welcomed luminaries like King Edward VII and Carl Fabergé. Today, The London Edition carries on this legacy of sophisticated elegance, offering a social sanctuary where guests can work, relax, dine, and socialize.
A Gathering Place for the Discerning
The first impression is one of grandeur, with imposing volumes and grand marble columns. The bustling lobby is a true gathering place, attracting both locals and visitors who fill its soaring spaces with a lively buzz throughout the day and night. This dynamic space seamlessly blends work and play, catering to every need. A black walnut communal table with Apple computers and laptop charging stations provides a dedicated workspace, while an antique billiard table invites guests to unwind with a friendly game.
The lobby’s visual spectacle is captivating. A dazzling installation of polished mirrored eggs by German lighting designer Ingo Maurer greets visitors, followed by a striking rectangular blackened steel bar adorned with gigantic back-lit antique mirrors. The hypnotic Portal creation by Korean artist Chul Hyun Ahn, manipulating perspective through light and mirrors, adds another layer of intrigue. The hotel’s original marble walls and intricate stucco ceilings, meticulously restored, stand as impressive Grade II-listed examples of Belle Époque splendor.
A Blend of Opulence and Modernity
The overall ambiance is a delightful fusion of aristocratic English country manor and private gentleman’s club. Comfy green velvet couches, plush khaki leather sofas, and mustard velvet slipper chairs invite guests to relax in style. The interiors are thoroughly modern and edgy, yet never feel overly masculine, with the occasional touch of whimsy, like the custom-made reproduction tapestry depicting a Louis XV Gobelin Tapestries scene.
Culinary Delights at Berners Tavern
To the right of the lobby lies Berners Tavern, the hotel’s restaurant helmed by Michelin-starred chef Jason Atherton. This culinary haven transcends the typical English tavern, blending classic colors reminiscent of Johannes Vermeer paintings with the minimalist aesthetic of Donald Judd. Two grand bronze chandeliers, inspired by New York City’s Grand Central Station, hang gracefully from the original 18-foot ceilings. But it’s the curated collection of 211 photographic portraits, landscapes, and still lifes that truly steals the show, transporting diners to the heart of the Louvre Museum.
The restaurant itself is a spacious, almost perfectly cubic dining room, featuring a blend of elegant furnishings, including tub chairs, dusty rose upholstered dining chairs, chestnut mohair and taupe leather banquettes, and round bleached oak tables. The oversized zinc-topped bar, adorned with bespoke leather-upholstered stools, adds a touch of industrial chic. Beyond the impeccable design, the menu delights with refined modern British cuisine, showcasing the freshest seasonal ingredients.
A Private Retreat in the Punch Room
Tucked away at the rear of the hotel lies the Punch Room, a dimly lit, fumed oak-paneled den that evokes a sense of intimacy and exclusivity. Custom tufted banquettes in teal velvet, overstuffed mint green leather tub chairs, and dark brown leather club chairs create a cozy atmosphere. This modern reinterpretation of a cocktail bar forgoes a traditional bar, instead offering hand-crafted cocktails by guest mixologists, served on elegant silver salvers.
Rooms That Reflect the Past and Present
Stepping away from the social areas, guests are greeted by bright, airy guestrooms that seamlessly blend past and present. Dark walnut or light oak panels, oak floors, tailor-made light fixtures, and Baroque gilt-framed photographs create a harmonious dialogue between tradition and modernity. These original artworks by Dutch photographer Hendrik Kerstens feature portraits of his daughter and muse, Paula, posed as figures from 17th-century paintings, with a touch of playful humor.
A Luxurious Oasis
Rooms are designed to be havens of relaxation, with oatmeal upholstered George Smith tufted lounge chairs, luxurious linen-and-silk drapery, and silk area rugs. Modern desks and tables cantilever off the walls, while spacious light-filled all-white bathrooms feature rainforest showers, long Apaiser eco-friendly bathroom sinks, and white Thassos marble mosaic tiles. Guests fortunate enough to secure a room with a terrace can enjoy stunning city views from the cast iron bistro tables and chairs.
A Revolution in London Hospitality
In less than two years, The London Edition has established itself as a force to be reckoned with in London’s dynamic hospitality scene. Schrager’s unique vision, combined with his keen instincts and willingness to take risks, has created a truly unforgettable experience, setting a new standard for style and sophistication. The hotel is more than just a place to stay; it’s a destination in itself, attracting a discerning clientele who appreciate its blend of luxury, comfort, and vibrant energy. It is a testament to Ian Schrager’s enduring legacy and his ability to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary.
