Crouched in the centre of London, the Hotel Savoy stands as an epitome of effortless elegance—overlooking the River Thames amidst the boisterous, bustling streets of London. For over a century, this epochal establishment has welcomed patrons worldwide, offering unparalleled hospitality sprinkled with history that is as captivating as it is classy. “Middle Eastern royalty, high-flying executives, and the well-to-do all favour The Savoy. [In fact, it is] rumoured favourite hotel of Marilyn Monroe and Marlene Dietrich (who has a suite named after her),” writes Laura Goulden of the Condé Nast Traveller.
From the moment a patron steps into the hotel’s foyer, they are enveloped in an atmosphere of sophistication. The interior architecture layout pays homage to the hotel’s past. Mainly crafted in the Art Deco style, it brims with practicality and has curved, ornamental elements, monolithic appearances, decorative motifs and artsy materials. Despite its history and heritage, the hotel remains firmly rooted in the present.
The hotel which opened in 1889, was designed by the renowned architect, Thomas Edward Collcutt, and till date, exudes snazzy sophistication.
The exterior is characterised by the imposing yet intricate detailing. As one moves closer, patrons are drawn to the hotel’s gigantic green dome, a striking feature that gracefully crowns the building. Inspired by the elegant curves of the Belle Époque era, the dome adds grandeur to the hotel’s architecture. The imposing entrance, flanked by captivating Corinthian columns adorned with the hotel’s signature green and gold canopy, welcomes guests into a world of unparalleled luxury. Above, the building’s red-brick exterior is punctuated by rows of elegant windows, each framed by intricately carved stone detailing. The red-brick facade is adorned with ornate balconies, arched windows, and decorative flourishes, reminiscent of the late Victorian era.
The stunning riverside location offers breathtaking views of some of London’s most iconic landmarks, including both Houses of Parliament.
In 2007, Hotel Savoy underwent extensive architectural renovation and refurbishment. The new architectural features are largely modelled on the Art Deco themes. For instance, the Beaufort Bar has an Art Deco interior that is jet-black and gold.
The River Restaurant, facing the Thames, is also decorated in the Art Deco style. A Guardian review of the renovation mentioned: “… in under five minutes, I have been expertly drawn into the world of Savoy. The Savoy is back where it belongs – right on top.”
Hotel Savoy: Star speckled history
The effervescent elegance of the Hotel Savoy has attracted members of the British high society for decades, including most notable members of the British royal family. Among the first royal patrons was Edward, Prince of Wales, and later Edward VII, the then-unquestioned fashion flagbearer. The Prince would often dine at The Savoy with his friends and family.
Re-opening
In November 2010, the hotel opened after a three-year renovation, with the reopening undertaken by the then Prince Charles in the presence of the hotel’s owner, HRH Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. In 2017, a large portrait of Her Majesty the Queen by Henry Ward, commissioned by the Red Cross to mark her role as patron for six decades, was unveiled in the Upper Thames Foyer at The Savoy. That portrait of the Queen now sits in the heart of The Savoy.
