History & Design
Design
History
In the 2020 renovation, renowned French interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon reimagined the hotel’s interiors, seamlessly blending neoclassical elegance with modern British flair. The result is a contemporary yet distinctly British design that preserves the building’s historic character while introducing playful, vibrant touches. The updated guest rooms and select suites draw inspiration from London’s dynamic 1960s Pop Art scene, embodying the era’s edgy, creative, and hedonistic spirit. The décor fuses French sophistication with traditional British elements, creating a unique cross-cultural design. Key design highlights include: Each room showcases a collection of pop art pieces by London-based artists, reflecting the city’s artistic heritage. The iconic ‘Mushroom Chair’ by 1960s French designer Pierre Paulin adds a retro-chic touch to each room. The carpets draw inspiration from classic UK designs, particularly the timeless association with Scotland. Featuring chrome-plated fixtures and black-and-white tiles, most bathrooms are equipped with both a walk- in shower and a separate bathtub for luxurious comfort. All rooms and suites feature the exclusive Sofitel MyBed™—a feather-filled mattress designed to offer the feeling of sleeping on a triple-layer duvet. This signature comfort can even be experienced in the La Première first-class service by Air France. In partnership with Diptyque, the French parfumerie, refillable dispenser toiletries are provided in every room, offering luxurious quality while supporting sustainability.
Sofitel London St James
If Sofitel London St James’s walls could talk, they would weave tales of London’s elite society and timeless elegance. The story begins in 1923, when the Grade II-listed building, designed by E. Keynes Purchase and Durward Brown, first took shape. Constructed as the headquarters for a distinguished army banking agency, Cox and Company, it was part of John Nash’s grand vision for Regent Street—an area still renowned for its elegant listed buildings, luxury boutiques, and gentlemen’s clubs. During World War II, the building housed a bomb-proof room where the King’s stamp collection was safeguarded. Over time, Cox and Company evolved into Cox’s and King’s before eventually merging with Lloyds Bank. For decades, the building remained under the stewardship of bankers until Sofitel recognised its hidden potential and, in 2002, began a transformation into a 125,000-square-foot luxury 5-star hotel. A glass plaque commemorates the building’s rich history, while its neoclassical architecture preserves the legacy of the past amidst contemporary design and modern amenities.
The hotel’s storied walls have even witnessed brushes with royalty.
‘The Mushroom Chair’ Pierre Paulin
Red Junior Suite
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