Our latest TOPHOTELDESIGN exclusive looks at the multimillion-pound renovation of a storied luxury hotel in the well-heeled neighbourhood of Chelsea.

Blair Associates Architecture, GA Group – London and Russell Sage Studio collaborated on transforming this renowned property to spectacular effect.

A legendary site

Belmond Cadogan Hotel revealed the results of its historic renovation in 2019, marking a new era for the heritage-rich site, known for playing host to countless socialites, artists and aristocrats over the years. The project’s architectural design was overseen by Blair Associates Architecture, with GA Group – London and Russell Sage Studio working on the interiors, and Duravit and Geberit supplying the bathrooms.

The glamorous and intriguing history of the hotel, which was built in 1887, helped inform the redesign of this social gathering spot in West London to enhance the experience for a contemporary clientele.

Guests are now immersed in a setting that celebrates British culture, eccentricity and design, while also providing an introduction to the rich tapestry of the affluent Chelsea neighbourhood. On entering through grand doors off Sloane Street, they’re met with a fireplace, sweeping staircase and bronze cast of 600 books, before being led over to the property’s guestrooms and social areas, including an elegant restaurant and chic lounge.

Designed to feel like home

Each of the 54 rooms and suites delivers a decidedly residential feel. Guests can expect to find large living spaces with working fireplaces and dining areas, bathrooms with freestanding bathtubs plus champagne and book holders, and in-room bars featuring bespoke tea sets. Many rooms also have views over Cadogan Place Gardens.

Private access to the hotel from 21 Pont Street and a key to Cadogan Place Gardens further enhance this homely ambience.

Each space throughout the property fuses a celebration of the building’s past with modern comfort and style. Carefully curated artefacts, for example, have been positioned alongside more contemporary works of art.

Original design details like wood panelling and botanical mosaics remain in place and are now complemented by lush fabrics, bold colours and bespoke furnishings. Design highlights include ‘Oscar’ the peacock, glittering with thousands of Swarovski crystals at the entrance to the private dining room.

Last but not least, the hotel’s 400-piece art collection represents Chelsea’s status as a cultural enclave that’s home to several major art institutions, and features the oeuvre of predominantly British artists, plus specially commissioned works inspired by the botanicals in the private gardens.

For more info about this scheme, and to view an extensive gallery of hi-res images, check out Belmond Cadogan Hotel’s project page on the TOPHOTELDESIGN website.

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