Hotel Opening: After a three-year £220million renovation, The Savoy hotel has reopened following one of the most ambitious restorations in British history.
More than 1,000 craftsmen, artists and artisans have worked tirelessly to create interiors that are in keeping with the hotel’s original and much-loved spirit.
The adventurous programme encompassed the entirety of the 121-year-old building – from its iconic entrance and the American Bar to the Savoy Grill and the 268 guestrooms and suites.
The Fairmont Managed Hotel reopened the hotel’s doors on Sunday after closing in December 2007.
The hotel’s two main design aesthetics, Edwardian and Art Deco, have been carefully brought back to life under the direction of world-renowned designer Pierre Yves Rochon.
Thirty-eight new River Suites and guestrooms have been added, offering the same stunning views over the River Thames that inspired Whistler and Monet.
Nine Personality Suites pay tribute to some well-known figures who made the legendary hotel their London ‘home-away-from-home’ including Maria Callas, Charlie Chaplin, Marlene Dietrich and Frank Sinatra.
The suites contain artwork, literature, photographs and artefacts that evoke the time and spirit of the stars including the 12 pink roses in the Marlene Dietrich Suite that the actress always requested upon arrival.
The Savoy's reopening includes the addition of a stately 325-square metre Royal Suite featuring two bedrooms, a study, sitting and dining rooms, as well as two master bathrooms and a dressing room boasting a specially ventilated shoe closet.
The suite has been specially designed so that all the rooms enjoy one of the finest views of London.
“We are very excited to reopen The Savoy,” Kiaran MacDonald, the general manager, said.
“It is fair to say that this project has not been without its challenges, but we are looking forward to unveiling the results of nearly three years of hard work and dedication.
“We are very aware of the place that The Savoy holds in many people’s affections and we firmly believe that the hotel will exceed people’s expectations and reclaim its position as one of the world’s great hotels.”
Established in 1889, The Savoy was the brainchild of the Gilbert and Sullivan impresario Richard D'Oyly Carte.
Originally managed by Swiss hotelier César Ritz and Maitre Chef Auguste Escoffier, it quickly became known for its glittering parties and glitterati guests.
Escoffier created dishes for Sarah Bernhardt, Lily Langtry, Dame Nellie Melba and the Prince of Wales, later Edward VII, while Ritz instituted the impeccable service, attention to detail and creativity that came to be the hallmark of the hotel.
For more than a century, Savoy Court was the stopping point for the Rolls-Royces of royalty, prime ministers and Hollywood stars.
The bars and restaurants of The Savoy have always played a major role in establishing the reputation of the hotel and a new life has been breathed into them.
The legendary River Restaurant sees a contemporary interpretation of Art Deco décor, while guests will welcome the reopening of the American Bar, refreshed but intact in spirit.
In addition, The Savoy Grill will return under the operation of Gordon Ramsay Holdings with Chef Patron, Stuart Gillies and Head Chef, Andy Cook.
New to the hotel will be The Beaufort Bar, a glamorous Art Deco bar built on the hotel’s original cabaret stage that will offer champagne, cocktails and cabaret and Savoy Tea, a bijou teashop selling Savoy tea, accessories and fresh patisserie.
Within the Thames Foyer, the re-introduction of a stunning gazebo beneath an ornate glass dome will provide the perfect ambience for afternoon tea.
For more information visit The Savoy.
