Who's Going
Theater Crowd, Media Elite, New York Weekenders
Reason to Stay
Central Location, Private Apartments, Hip Clientele
Hotel Type
Luxury Design Hotel
After last year's opening of Dorset Square, we were unsure of the direction for Kit Kemp's Firmdale Hotels. But alas the style maven returns to her luxury roots with a flagship property on the fringes of Soho near its border with Mayfair and Piccadilly Circus. Built as an urban village around a landscaped courtyard, a prominent work by artist Tony Cragg looms in exaggerated bronze. A series of reception rooms are laid in wide-plank wood floors with the feel of the British countryside emanated through a mix of vintage oil paintings, modern decor and endless curiosities. A signature restaurant serves all-day eatery with English specialties as well as a lively bar with after work menu of small plates and cast of dapper locals. An in-house bowling alley is a remnant of the building's past that's now infused with tribal upholstered loungers, backlit bowling balls and Howard Hodgkin artwork. There's also a 190-seat theater with movie nights and live streaming broadcasts from Royal Albert Hall in addition to a Soholistic Spa with fitness center.
The Room
More along the lines of the Haymarket and Charlotte Street Hotel, Ham Yard is a full-service luxury property offering 91 bedrooms and suites that include a series of 24 private apartments. Entry-level rooms feel larger than life with floor-to-ceiling windows and monotone color palette accented in floral drapery, cheery upholster and whimsical artwork. Suites feature well-size living areas and private dining room ideal for private events like movie junkets. Bathrooms are typically Firmdale with their greyish marble with Harris Miller bath products that have now become a brand staple.
Preferred Room
1-Bedroom Suite
Special Features
Hip Clientele, Theater, Lounge Scene
Amenities
Restaurant, Lounge, Bar, Bowling Alley, Spa