St Martins Lane

Hotel review

It looks like a swanky office block. Look again, and you notice the over-sized planters, the red telephone boxes and the towering glass revolving door – although there's no obvious signage. Step inside the vast entrance lobby and the sense of playfulness continues. The traditional VIP red carpet has been replaced with a bold black number with sexy red borders; giant chess pieces sit on one side while gold-coloured 'molar teeth' stools sit behind. There are huge mirrors, fat white pillars and vast windows, some tinted yellow to make London streets seem less grey. All are hallmarks of maverick designer Philippe Starck who oversaw the conversion of a former office building to the hotel in 1999. It's full of the irreverent and quirky - a hidden bar with a speakeasy vibe, a lounge that riffs on a formal British drawing room - that make guests feel they're at a party. Despite the quirkiness, service levels are faultless with staff popping up at your elbow just when needed. Bedrooms are sleek white-on -white affairs that could be clinical were it not for the funky mood lighting, floor-to-ceiling windows and clever touches such as a colourful pot-plant. The overall feel is both restful and luxurious. There's a vibrant – and well-priced for central London - Pan-Asian menu in the restaurant and one of the best breakfast experiences this writer has enjoyed, from fresh mango and Greek yoghurt to tortillas, frittatas and the full grill. Leave time for a cocktail in the speakeasy style Blind Spot. Deliciously decadent.

Helen Pickles Review published: 26/02/2024