Gretchen Kelly writes about hotels, destinations, and unique travel experiences…
All my editors adore The Dorchester.
Editors from major tabloids to trendy design publications are unanimous in their praise. Why wouldn’t they be? Lady Gaga, Johnny Depp, and Britney Spears all concur that there’s nothing more delightful in London than relaxing in a plush white bathrobe in your suite at this historic and perpetually stylish landmark. Even General Eisenhower moved from Claridge’s to stay here.
This September, there’s even more of The Dorchester to love… just down Park Lane from the original. On September 1st, 45 Park Lane will open its doors in a cozy 45-room building with views of Hyde Park. Designer Thierry Despont (a favorite of editors and the creative force behind the Statue of Liberty’s renovation) has envisioned an elegant and retro space featuring mahogany, clean lines, and touches of camel and aquamarine. The 1930s vibe perfectly suits London, a city that often feels like it still has one foot in that stylish era.
Despont’s masterpiece includes a luxurious suite with a wraparound balcony offering panoramic views of the city. The hotel also marks the European debut of Wolfgang Puck’s restaurant, Cut at 45 Park Lane. As the name suggests, it will be a haven for prime beef lovers, complemented by what promises to be one of the finest wine cellars in town.
For those who find the property familiar, it’s because it occupies the former London Playboy Club, which offered its unique brand of hospitality from 1966 to 1982. No word yet on whether Hugh Hefner has reserved a single or a double.
Gretchen Kelly writes about hotels, destinations, and unique travel experiences for publications such as the New York Post, Luxury Travel Advisor, Frommers.com, Executive Travel, Interior Design, and The Travel Channel.com. She has visited over 80 countries in the past decade. Her expertise spans travel and culture, art, design, and film-related travel. She has been featured as a travel expert on Fox Network, BBC TV, and BBC radio, among others. You can follow her on Twitter @gretchenkelly or visit her website at www.gretchenkelly.com.