Slap-bang amid the hustle and bustle of London are these refreshingly Zen serviced apartment-suites. The interiors are simple and refined but far from Spartan. You can expect wonderful extras, too, from a Geodesis scented candle (free to take home if you book through i-escape) to Ren toiletries and a stock of kitchen essentials.
Between the vibrancy of Soho and Mayfair, the suites form a tranquil urban retreat tucked behind an unassuming doorway. Once inside, the city buzz melts away and the luxurious Asian-inspired décor takes over to blissful effect.
Rooms: Throughout the 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom suites, bamboo floors, white walls and sleek furnishings are tempered by the cosiness of warm fabrics and darker colours, creating an environment that’s calming and welcoming. Large windows keep the interiors bright and sunny, and living rooms have giant leather floor cushions, velvet sofas and spiral-shaped Tom Dixon lamps. The 1-bedroom options are perfect for romantic London weekends, and there are also a couple of 2-bedroom Loft Suites (one with a mezzanine, the other with a lovely balcony) and the 3-bedroom Bartlett Suite (with 2 terraces) for families and groups.
Food: The suite kitchens are small but beautifully designed. They have everything you need (oven, hob, microwave, dishwasher), and you can arrange for staff to fill the cupboards with Whole Foods groceries for you. You’ll find coffee, tea, fruit and chocolate waiting for you on arrival, and there’s also a stock of basic ingredients (all charged for), including pasta and a Bloody Mary cocktail mix. Should cooking sound like a little too much fuss, you can order in from the array of restaurant delivery menus, or pop out in search of gastronomic appeasement (no difficult task in this part of London). Breakfast is available to order, too – expect the usual suspects, from the Full English and smoked salmon to healthier options such as muesli and fruit.
Top Tip: After a hectic day of sightseeing, light a candle, open a bottle of wine, order food from Thai restaurant Patara (next door) and curl up in your lovely living room with a stash of DVDs borrowed from reception.
Customer review: “Great location for shopping right off Regent Street… Service was superb, rooms were lovely and well-appointed.”
Caitlin, France (26.12.11)
i-escape gift: A Geodesis scented candle to take home.