Soho House founder’s new hotel could rebirth central London nightlife

Nick Jones, founder of Soho House, has unveiled his latest venture, St Clement Hotel, which he claims is designed to reignite central London's nightlife scene. The hotel, located by the Thames, borrows elements from both Claridge's and Chiltern Firehouse, but with a casual and exclusive twist. The interior design, crafted by Eagle + Hodges, features a mix of expensive, beige, and quirky elements, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere.

The lobby is adorned with Warhol's Polaroids, sculptures by Luke Alen-Buckley, Yves Klein's bright blue plexiglass tables, and Mark Grotjahn's abstract works. The hotel's staff are known for their enthusiastic and performative demeanor, reminiscent of Soho House's culture. Guests and staff alike are eager to be the main character, be it at the hotel or the adjacent wine shop and bakery, Corner Shop 180.

Rooms at St Clement offer panoramic views of the Thames, with intricate details like a thick bath mat and textured bouclé sofas. However, there are some teething issues, such as broken bathroom facilities. Despite these minor setbacks, the hotel's location and panoramic views make it a captivating spot. The hotel also houses Cafe Clement, a restaurant that has already helped revive late-night dining in London.

Bobbi's Bar, another establishment within the hotel, offers a lively and discreet atmosphere, with live piano performances and expertly crafted martinis. The hotel's events calendar has already been busy, with Bentley, Netflix, and The Rolling Stones having hosted events. Despite its inclusive branding, St Clement seems to cater more to a certain crowd, suggesting that the hotel might not be as democratic as Jones claims.