Mayfair has a new kid on the block when it comes to luxury hotels, and we're feeling rather smy that we were among the very first through to doors to experience it. The Montcalm Mayfair has opened its doors after an extensive two year renovation, with the five star boutique property - just tucked behind Marble Arch - introducing the new concept of Sensitive Luxury.
Led by award-winning architects Holland Harvey and interior designers Studio Est and Studio Mica, the restoration has been inspired by the hotel's location on what was once ancient forest, bringing a wealth of botanical touches to the interiors, not least through its soft woodland colour palette, decor and literature.
In keeping with all Autograph Collection hotels, Montcalm Mayfair celebrates its own distinct design honouring its Georgian roots, the hotel combines rich historical narratives with modern sophistication, celebrating individuality, creativity, and sustainability. The spaces feature pieces designed and produced by social-impact businesses, reflecting Montcalm's commitment to conscious luxury
The downstairs lobby and lounge celebrates the central theme of The Garden, including floral motifs and nature-inspired elements, Georgian garden design and paintings along with an incredibly beautiful jand-painted ceiling mural and bespoke chandelier. We loved the cosy, welcoming lounge, filled with beautiful books around the theme of the garden, from photography and nature tomes to novels and biographies.
151 guest rooms and three beautiful suites take the garden theme throughout, with clean wood, sumptuous velvet cushions in delicious shades of an English woodland and the crown jewel, the Botanical Suite, offers London’s only fully private hotel suite experience, complete with its own entrance. From the luxurious Frette bed linens and Penhaligon's bathroom amenities to the fluffy robes, rooms are cosy, homely, and oh so welcoming. We love how every element of the hotel design has been thoughtfully curated and where possible chosen to support businesses that do good for the community, the in room ice buckets for example were made by a company supporting women escaping persecution in Myanmar, while cakes are provided by Luminary Bakery, an award winning social enterprise empowering London's most disadvantaged women to thrive.
The YĀTRĀ Signature Spa offers a holistic wellness experience, inspired by the ancient Ayurvedic wisdom and London's multicultural heritage. This retreat features a serene plunge pool, heat experiences, and four treatment rooms, complemented by soundscapes curated by MindFidelity that echo British woodlands. The first into the spa the day before its official opening, we experienced a sumptuous reflexology foot treatment, superbly relaxing and reviving, before taking a dip and enjoying a sauna. It's a dreamy little subterranean spot for relaxing away the stresses of the day.
The top floor is home to The Library, a private space for guests to enjoy not just the unrivalled collection of books but the exceptionally creative cocktail menu, inspired by the seasons and of course the botanical theme, while downstairs guests will enjoy the latest venue from Korean chef Akira Back. Lilli by Akira Back offers a modern take on British cuisine with global influences, blending the chef's Korean heritage with contemporary Japanese techniques, celebrating seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. We tucked into wagyu pizza, dynamite tiger shrimp, pan seared chicken with balsamic teriyaki and a raspberry cream baked alaska, and it was utterly delicious.
The Montcalm Mayfair is a beautiful boutique property, thoughtfully designed to be sensitive not just to its heritage and surroundings but to its environment. We loved every moment discovering London's newest gem.
Rooms from £500 per night. For more information, visit www.montcalmcollection.com
