This Five-Star Central London Hotel Proves Combining Kitsch And Luxe Is Actually Possible

When you think of swanky hotels, chances are a 1950s-style office block isn’t top of your list. But once you peer inside, past a seemingly unassuming facade, you’ll discover a unique, innovative and extraordinary escape, promising something different to your standard weekend getaway. Let me introduce Sanderson London Hotel.

The Sanderson London Hotel reviews are in... and it's looking fab.

The first thing that greets you once you walk in is Salvador Dali's huge, bright red lip sofa that gives you a good indication of the cool, surreal decor that awaits. In the lobby, there’s the Instagrammable hovering egg seat, constantly papped by guests, alongside John Piper’s gorgeous original stained glass purple billiards room (make sure to have a game or two). The check-in process was seamless; the staff were friendly, helpful and provided recommendations, not just for what to order in the hotel but also suggestions for things to do nearby. After whizzing up six floors in a galaxy-themed, fantasy lift, we arrived at our apartment, the incredible Loft Suite Terrace (rooms start at £910 per night).

This hotel takes its name from the eponymous fabric and wallpaper manufacturers, whose showroom was converted into an upmarket hotel by famous French designer Philippe Starck. It’s Grade II listed, including the lush courtyard garden where Sanderson London afternoon tea is served.

The Sanderson London Hotel menu boasts comforting scran for the soul.

Just around the corner from Oxford Street, you’ll find that Sanderson London is remarkably quiet. Even on our outside decking, where we relaxed on comfy sun loungers shrouded by jungle-like plants for additional privacy, it was super peaceful. As for the room itself? First things first, it’s absolutely massive and exceptionally clean. We reached our daily step count goal just by walking from one side to the other. The sleigh bed is equally as colossal and snug AF, draped in crisp linen and endless pillows, designed for the dreamiest of kips. The whole area is bright, airy and screams minimalist chic, from the white furniture to the beautiful pendant lighting. Sheer white curtains double up for not only privacy but also cleverly sectioning the space. We’d advise getting to know your date pretty well before your visit though, as the glass walls mean that generally not much is left to the imagination. The free-standing bath was glorious, as was the amazing selection of MALIN+GOETZ spa toiletries we used throughout our stay. If I am being particularly picky, the shower was a bit hard to work out and the cracked draw wasn't in-keeping with the opulent feel, but that didn't detract from the experience. 

All the mod cons you could ever need are included, like a Lavazza coffee machine, high-tech TV and the fluffiest of robes. We adored the quirky little touches in the room, from the Louis XV-esque chez lounge with animal-like feet to the unusual, fun weights for when you want to start your day with a workout. There are also some saucy treats available to purchase, for all you lovers out there.

Our advice: check out the magical garden and fun floating chair.

As we walked down to dinner, we noticed the Sanderson London long bar and tall pop art seats that gave me Andy Warhol vibes. You know the ones, with funky illustrations of eyes at the back. Over the years, this space has garnered a reputation for those who want to let their hair down, think raucous BRIT-Award after parties, DJ nights and celeb gatherings, but this shining space still retains its elegance. We dined in the restaurant, kicking things off with two signature cocktails, the Sex ‘n’ The City (£18) and Girl On Fire (£18). The former was a fruity little number, topped with a kiss, blending vodka, Aperol, cherry syrup, cranberry juice and fresh lime. SJP would be proud. Mine was a rather potent mix of chilli-infused tequila and apricot liqueur - I really liked how it took a while to hit the back of my throat.

As for the food, expect hearty, British fare, ideal for starting your night off right. We opted for the soy roasted aubergine (£18), which took the humble veg and made it hella sophisticated. Think dainty cubes of feta, drizzled green herby oil, salty capers and notes of balsamic vinegar, a perfect match for the smokiness that ran through the dish. My date’s 28-day dry-aged rib eye steak (£38), doused in wild garlic butter was a 10/10, juicy, cooked medium rare and paired with a fiery peppercorn sauce. A meal wouldn’t be complete without chips, and somewhat greedily we chose two. The classic crunchy fries (£6) and decadent truffle and parmesan bites (also £6), both so moreish and naughty. Let’s get down to the show-stopping puds. The grilled peach (£14) and lemon tart (£14) were plate-licking good and sweet without being overpowering. We especially liked the icy sorbet, chocolate chopsticks and intricately piped meringue. Make sure you order desserts, people.

The Sanderson London Hotel bar and restaurant are seriously cool. 

After copping some zzzs, we woke up to find our attentions turning to food. In our view, there’s nothing more indulgent and satisfying than brekkie in bed, and Sanderson London don’t skimp on the first meal of the day. Options were plentiful, plus you could tweak to your heart's content – slightly-boiled, lightly scrambled - it’s all covered here and served on a classy silver tray. The smoked salmon topped smashed avocado and perfectly runny poached egg (£17.50), on a base of sourdough toast, delighted on all levels. Especially the flecks of chilli and coriander which gave it a spicy edge. The highlight of my vegetarian English breakfast (£12.50)? Interestingly the flavour-packed cooked spinach, but all-round it delivered with earthy field mushroom, grilled veggie sausage, charred tomato, crispy hash brown and baked beans in their very own pot.

The DesignMyNight Digest

To sum it up: Sanderson London, you really are a gem, saturated with personality and luxe escapism at every turn, plus our stay was everything we could want and more. How? The understated glam, rooms flooded by light with floor-to-ceiling windows and our own private hidden oasis rooftop, boasting views of the London skyline (you can actually see Big Ben in the distance). The hotel interiors, designed by Tim Andreas of Banjo, are stunning, cheeky, and to be honest, sometimes a bit weird, but I mean that with love. Next time you’re in town, why not give this icon a try?