The Athenaeum - A London institution is reborn

Following an intense and comprehensive renovation led by the award-winning designer Martin Hulbert, the five-star Athenaeum Hotel & Residences has unveiled 134 new bedrooms, 10 new suites and an exciting new guest destination.

The Grande Dame of Piccadilly re-emerges reinvigorated by a transformation of all ten floors; including bedrooms and suites, and the decision to transform the hotel’s top real-estate - The Penthouse - into ‘The View’, a members-style club accessible to hotel guests only.

The View takes the concept of a ‘high-end’ guest experience quite literally. A constantly evolving space of surprising and inspirational experiences, The View offers one of the most spectacular skyline panoramas in London. Previously reserved for privileged Penthouse Suite guests, The Athenaeum has opened up the top floor and rededicated it to hotel guests. A private members club – where your membership is your room key – to relax, socialise and connect with London.

Inspired by the metaphorical ‘rabbit hole’, The View will allow guests to enter a new space, immersing themselves into a world of unexpected spectacles, all with compliments of the hotel. Residents will enjoy surprise masterclasses such as how to mix the perfect G&T, mindfulness sessions overlooking Green Park, or simply be able to enjoy a complimentary tipple and nibbles from Michelin-starred brothers’ restaurant, Galvin whilst overlooking the unique and uninterrupted view of the capital.

In true grandiose style, guests at the hotel can consider themselves amongst the likes of Elizabeth Taylor, Christian Bale, Harry Styles, Samuel L Jackson, Natalie Portman and Kim and Kanye, and countless world-leaders. Residents may be surprised to know that it is within the four walls of The Athenaeum that many London legends have been made: Take-That announced their split and Spielberg edited E.T., Close Encounters and Raiders of the Lost Ark from The Athenaeum’s suites and Russell Crowe was famously made to tidy his bedroom. With thanks to the creative vision of Hulbert, the Athenaeum’s bedrooms are now back and more beautiful than ever, paying a definite nod to its Mayfair heritage, cue its Art Deco loveliness, whilst keeping the contemporary, discerning traveller in mind.

Each of the Superior, Deluxe, Park View bedrooms and Suites at the Athenaeum have been adapted and repurposed with the aim of maximising the hotel’s extraordinary aspect across the historic Green Park. Floor to ceiling windows now effortlessly open up the outlook and flood the room with natural light, whilst clever design, innovative lighting and tailored use of colour has been applied to enhance the interior space. Attention has been paid to every last detail with textiles being carefully sourced, or if required, specially made, from classic Herringbone weaves and linen-lined wardrobes, to silk-clad furniture, plush velvet cushions and bespoke carpets showcasing the very best of British craftsmanship.

The Bar is a spectacular hideaway where guests can relax in Kinnersley Kent Design jewel-toned chairs whilst sipping on signature cocktails crafted by award-winning barmen. The Living Wall backdrop in each alcove is a gorgeous feature that encases the stunning space.

Encouraging guests to #lookatlondondifferently, the hotel has also reimagined local landmarks through a series of exclusive artworks. These specially commissioned whimsical pieces harness the Athenaeum’s English design ethic, eccentric spirit and artistic DNA. Based on the concept of old theatre sets, the eclectic multimedia collages replicate local landmarks; Buckingham Palace, Burlington Arcade, Fortnum & Mason and the Royal Academy of the Arts (RA) and insert quintessentially British characters in sometimes surprising scenarios, from David Attenborough riding an elephant and the Queen with her Corgis, to representations of Grayson Perry, the Rolling Stones, Einstein, Alice in Wonderland and even the hotel’s owners. Said designer Martin Hulbert “Art in hotels can be so boring. It was important to create something that was fun and that you could look at for a long time. The more you look, the more you see.”

Commenting on the re-launch Athenaeum Hotel & Residences’ General Manager Bernard Murphy said: “We have breathed new life into the art deco walls of The Athenaeum, but respectfully retained all of the English quirks and oddities that made her great. We want guests to rediscover The Athenaeum – our restaurant, created by Michelin-starred Galvin brothers, our award-winning bar team - and all the hidden treasures of Mayfair. And when they do, we want them to enjoy an unexpected and surprising experience; surprisingly good!”

Prices start from £330 including VAT per room per night.

www.athenaeumhotel.com

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