London & South East Premier Hospitality

The Metropolitan by COMO

The Metropolitan by COMO, London
Written by Roma Publications

The Metropolitan by COMO, London

A new refurbishment has been carried out by interior architects, Forme UK, on The Metropolitan by COMO based in central London.

Overlooking Hyde Park, the luxurious hotel was the among the capital’s first hotels to present a completely modern aesthetic when it first opened in 1997 and this has remained an important signature of the hotel ever since.

With two contractors, the developments were split between Bridport and Beck Ltd. The Lobby was renovated by Bridport, whilst the nine floors of guest rooms were carried out by Beck.

Forme UK have introduced a large slot window, which upon entering the lobby provides an added dimension to the view of the exterior. Within this slot sits a linear fireplace, with marvellous Brazilian stone that draws attention to the level water table, exquisitely designed with a central funnel, into which the water flows away. The concept is that in winter the flames dance whilst the water table is still. In summertime, the flames die and the water table comes alive with bubbling jets.

The Metropolitan by COMO, London

A brand new reception desk is situated in front of a distressed two-tone leather panelled alcove with a striking etched mirrored central niche for innovative flower displays. Bespoke geometric stone tiles by Giles Miller adorn the desk, subtly lit to enhance their textured effect.

To complete their works to the lobby Forme UK sourced an eclectic mix of contemporary furniture from the UK and Italy, with comfort and style in mind. Tables of various heights add intrigue and practicality to the space, some with lavish Emperador marble inserts. Distinctive Kiko stools by Porada are beautifully crafted presenting a charming organic character within the space. An original sculptural clock has been retained but enhanced with luxurious burr walnut panelling exuding outstanding quality.

The Metropolitan by COMO, London

Premier Hospitality caught up with Linzi Coppick, Creative Director for Forme UK, to find out more on the refurbishment. Linzi said:

“We began on site with the contractors, Beck, on the guest room construction in April 2014 and all were complete by July 2015. The lobby with Bridport was a six week programme which completed the project in its entirety in mid August of this year.

“Since its opening the feedback has been exceptional. The refurbishment has been well received. There are some very positive comments on Trip Advisor from both new and existing guests; it is a major enhancement. Our challenge was to refurbish the hotel whilst retaining the ethos of what the Metropolitan is renowned for – which I believe we have successfully achieved.”

The Metropolitan by COMO, London

Along with the refurbishment of the existing rooms, Forme UK have created luxurious suites from larger, awkwardly shaped rooms, resulting in separate sleeping and lounge areas. On entering a typical guest room, behind a crafted tambour door the ‘wardrobe’ hanging area and luggage rack is revealed. Large desks for working with adjacent media hubs sit below state of the art Loewe TVs. Rooms boast full height hospitality areas with mini fridge, a Nespresso machine and a ‘larder’ drawer.

Fresh palettes of natural hues and textures feature in the guest rooms, including a combination of dark and pale timbers, American walnut and sycamore. All in-room technology from air conditioning to roller blinds is designed to operate at the touch of a button on a single console.

The Metropolitan by COMO, London

Linzi commented:

“I have worked with the owners group COMO for many years on various properties throughout their portfolio and have over time a clear understanding of their philosophy. To be involved in their premium hotel in London is a huge privilege.

The project involved a tremendous team effort. It was vital that we had a clear brief, and worked closely with the management who operate the hotel – to understand both theirs and the guests’ requirements.”

The Metropolitan by COMO, London

Middleton Bespoke Joinery

Middleton Bespoke Joinery is a British company that craft the finest furniture and luxury bespoke joinery. As part of DM Specialist, a company with over 18 years of experience, Middleton Bespoke Joinery have been manufacturing and installing bespoke furniture and joinery in London, Surrey, Hertfordshire, Oxfordshire and other fine homes across the country.

Middleton Bespoke Joinery continue to build on lasting relationships with greatly respected contractors, architects and interior designers including the likes of: high end kitchen designers, Poggen pohl, architectural practices Lawson Robb, Michaelis Boyd, and more recently a project at the metropolitan hotel on Park Lane, in liaison with the highly respected Forme UK, whilst also continuing to create and supply custom pieces of furniture for Charles Burnand.

The Metropolitan by COMO, London

The key to Middleton Bespoke Joinery is in the name; everything the company supplies is bespoke. Joinery is made to order at the company’s Bedfordshire-based workshop, and every detail is designed to accommodate clients’ own creative specifications. Middleton Bespoke Joinery welcome any new challenge, and no piece is too challenging. All the company needs is an idea and they can turn it into a reality.

Middleton Bespoke Joinery’s state of the art workshop allows us the company to work with a very wide range of materials including rare woods, leathers, textiles, glass and metal.

Finally, Middleton Bespoke Joinery’s emphasis is on exceeding clients’ expectations in everything they do and so work is always adapted around their needs, including progress reports, modifications and prototype designs if required.

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Roma Publications