This hotel from Marriot’s luxury division truly combines superior service with first class aesthetics.
The original building spaces are divided into innovative inserts. An atrium with stucco ceiling and large sculpted figures, covered in lovingly restored multicolored marble, evokes the style of the original building. The main common areas are complemented with elegant outdoor spaces, and beyond, guests will find two bars, a restaurant, meeting rooms and a fitness center open 24 hours.
The renowned American minimalist artist Donald Judd served as inspiration for the furnishings, which show an exquisite range of shapes and colors. Sofas with clean geometric lines lined with green velvet, comfortable leather chairs that mimic large ears and black walnut tables contrast with an ultramodern steel bar and four antique mirrors reflect the cozy lighting.
Artist Ingo Maurer brought his talent and experience to create the sophisticated lighting that illuminates the hotel’s elegant atmosphere. Floor lamps inspired by the work of Salvador Dali and giant chandeliers dominate the entrance to the main atrium.
Intertwined in unique alchemy, the hotel reflects the essence of aristocratic Britain, the grandeur of the Edwardian era and the extravagance of the belle époque with a modern, urban atmosphere. After passing the main entrance, the huge and stunning stately marble staircase leads us to another time with a marvelous crystal arch that makes a statement in the sumptuous lobby area.
The hotel also offers more intimate spaces such as a billiard room, inspired by London’s 19th-century private clubs, where guests can enjoy cocktails served on a silver tray by the friendly staff. But one of the warmest and most welcoming spaces is Bernes restaurant with capacity for140 guests and serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Big oval couches in the front create a casual ambiance while round benches, lined in fine leather, wrap around oak tables to define the central dining room. Two large bronze chandeliers made to order and inspired by New York’s Grand Central Station, hang 18 feet from the ceiling and portraits, landscapes and other paintings dominate the walls as would a private art collection.
The 173 rooms and suites are imbued with the warmth of a private home. They are exquisitely lined with dark walnut or light oak, fully insulated for sound, subtly lit and, once again, decorated combining old and contemporary styles. All the rooms are equipped with modern cantilever desks and comfortable armchairs upholstered in linen and silk. Both lofts and suites feature living rooms with George Smith sofas and fantastic views of the city. Some have furnished terraces with bistro tables and chairs made of cast iron. The spaces are designed, without distracting details, to inspire serenity and calm.
The minimalist bathrooms feature dark precious wood furnishings that contrast with the white color palette. “The individual is the key, and since the definition of luxury has changed, we prefer to be recognized for good service, before anything else,” says Ian Schrager.
This hotel from Marriot’s luxury division truly combines superior service with first class aesthetics. ■
