One Aldwych Hotel — Photo by One Aldwych

One Aldwych will begin an extensive refurbishment of its guest rooms and public spaces this October, signifying the most important enhancement project since it opened 20 years ago.

When the hotel opened in 1998, One Aldwych in London's Covent Garden neighborhood set the benchmark in contemporary luxury with its striking design and warm, professional service. Now, two decades later, the hotel refurbishment will raise the bar in hotel interiors by showcasing an imaginative use of space, color and materials.

Leading British designer Robert Angell (The Connaught, The Berkeley, Lime Wood Hotel, Belmond Grand Hotel St Petersburg) has been appointed to redesign the guest rooms and suites. The interiors will be richly layered, sophisticated and textured to evoke the style of an elegant, modern residence. The latest user-friendly technology will be introduced throughout. There will be 86 rooms and 16 stunning suites, including four new one-bedroom suites.

The hotel's landmark building was created by Anglo-French architects Mewès and Davis in 1907 for The Morning Post newspaper. Inspired by its Edwardian elegance, London-based Fabled Studio (Dinner By Heston Blumenthal, Margot, St Leonard's) has been appointed to reimagine the public spaces including the iconic Lobby Bar, Hotel Entrance, Reception, Indigo restaurant and private event spaces.

Simon Hirst, the hotel's opening General Manager for 10 years, has returned as Managing Director to oversee the renovation after four years at Raffles Hotel Singapore.

"When the hotel first opened its doors 20 years ago, its striking design and exemplary service levels set the standard for others to follow. It has stood the test of time beautifully, but tastes and expectations have changed," said Hirst. "Now is the right moment to update the hotel, to create superbly comfortable, modern sophisticated rooms and once again set the benchmark in hotel design."

The multi-million-pound project will begin in October with the hotel remaining open. The hotel will be fully closed from mid-January 2019 with an expected reopening in mid-March 2019. The full hotel team will continue to be employed throughout, meaning upon reopening the hotel's exceptional level of service will once again be delivered by familiar, friendly faces. The hotel will continue to be one of the most environmentally savvy hotels in London.

This inspiring refurbishment will reaffirm One Aldwych as the most sought-after leading independent London hotel.

Hotel website