The Savoy in London has temporarily closed its Thames Foyer to begin extensive renovations of the iconic lounge.
The extravagant lobby has served as the luxury hotel’s tea room since 1912, and has long held a reputation as being one of the most ‘quintessentially English’ experiences the city has to offer.
The refurbishment, which is being led by London-based design studio BradyWilliams, is expected to take three months and will include an entirely new name and redesigned menu.
The Savoy has promised that the new lounge will be “a vibrant space” in the heart of the hotel “with a blend of our theatrical flair and relaxed charm” that stays true to the historical roots of the building. Afternoon tea will continue to be a highlight, along with breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee and cocktails.
The lobby was last renovated in 2010, as part of a £220-million renovation of the entire property that lasted three years. It re-opened with the addition of a winter garden gazebo crowned, which housed a live pianist playing classical music beneath a glass domed ceiling as guests enjoyed their tea.
Renderings of the new lobby show this gazebo will be removed, bringing more attention to the ornate cupola and allowing more space for seating.
The colour scheme will also be entirely changed, with its black and red furnishings transformed into pearly whites and warm oranges. This modernisation is also evident in the removal of the lobby’s carpet, which gets replaced by glossy marble flooring. The chandeliers will also be swapped for more contemporary ones, and a sleek bar decorated with white statues has been installed at the back of the space.
Its opening will coincide with The Savoy’s first scone shop, Scoff, and The Florist at The Savoy, both of which will also open in November.
Bookings for the new Savoy Lounge are open from 3 September.
