All Aboard > Tom Dixon’s Mondrian Hotel at Sea Containers, London

This story goes back years for me. Hearing on the grapevine that Design Research Studio had been appointed to design the Mondrian’s latest location in London, I remember thinking I couldn’t wait to see it. Well the hotel has been open a few months now and the design is certainly full on Dixon style.

Situated on the banks of the Thames, Sea Containers ( they’ve ditched the ‘House’) holds a commanding position on the river between the OXO Tower and Blackfriars Bridge.

Converting the former office building back into a hotel, as originally conceived by design legend Warren Platner,  this new space offers 360 rooms, two restaurants, a rooftop bar, spa, cinema and conference facilities. Large scale custom features referencing the transatlantic maritime history of the building is the key theme here. The copper clad wall below, the reception plays reference to the hull of a 1920s cruise liner and the lines and shapes of the architecture all play theme to maritime detailing.

Dandelyan, the ground floor bar, is my favourite space by far, the green lacquered walls, lavender hued banquette seating and deco detailing with thick layers of brass and bronze, yep this is my kind of sultry interior. The perfect spot for a lazy Saturday cocktails and papers, (I know you think I mean coffee and papers, but no I do mean cocktails) Dandelyan is one hell of a sexy spot if you’re in need of a new den.

Porthole mirror detailing

The rooms are quintessential Dixon / DRS. Totally Morgans Hotel Group in flavour and with views to prevent you from thinking the rooms might be on the slightly small side. Just pretend your in NYC. Remember you’re also supposed to be on a ship, so actually your cabin is really quite divine isn’t it.

Every new hotel needs a fabulous spa, and they sure haven’t disappointed here. Hello Hollywood glamour.

Pictures courtesy of DRS – Click here for the hotel website.

LWSY