Now in the third stage of its ongoing revamp, London’s Berkeley hotel is showing no signs of taking its foot off the pedal. As with previous phases — which saw the Caramel Room and the restaurant, Marcus at the Berkeley, overhauled — the launch of the property’s Chelsea Suites has introduced five new spaces of contemporary luxury with an unprecedented attention to detail that is now a definitive feature of the Knightsbridge property. Conceived by designer Robert Angell, each suite bears the British designer’s timeless aesthetic, seamlessly fused with the Berkeley’s distinct contemporary style, and dressed in subtle tones. In keeping with the hotel’s devotion to British heritage, the work of national artisans has been incorporated into the suites, which includes bespoke craftsmanship by Ben Whistler and Dunmore. Handmade, brushed timber beds take centre stage, buttressed by leather sides and headboards; a celebration of texture that is also found on the walls which are lined with dainty strips of paper, arranged to form a cross-hatched patina. Individually sourced artwork by the likes of Andy Warhol, Nelly Duff and Trystan Bates is proudly displayed alongside more modern affectations like the leather-covered wood desks which have compartment drawers for iPads: an apt summary of the suites successful balance of practicality and spirit.
