Designed by the late Richard Rogers and Ivan Harbour of RSHP, the Emory is transforming hospitality design. Standing as one of the first all-suite establishments in London, the Emory design style integrates warmth, intimacy and calmness to create ‘quiet luxury’ – a style typically reserved for residential settings.
The Emory is the latest edition of Maybourne’s collection of iconic establishments. Known for renowned places like Claridge’s and The Connaught, the addition of Emory is further proof of Maybourne’s commitment to creating unique, timeless architecture.
Richard Rogers and Ivan Harbour’s design for the Emory blends modernist and constructivist design elements. The “sails” structure, which soars above the building, exemplifies this aesthetic and is the hotel’s defining feature. Designed by the RSHP, the sails reflect both the beauty of movement and timelessness in architecture. They personify as a guide for hotel guests, leading them to the private cobbled entrance on Old Barrack Yard. Furthermore, the architecture’s emphasis on openness and flexibility presents a harmonious integration between the interior and exterior spaces, allowing for an overall cohesive design. The steel staircase, a focal point of the lobby decorated in a shade known as “Richard Rogers Pink,” is a bold architectural statement as it pays homage to Richard Rogers’s contribution to the project.
The hotel interior is tastefully designed by the exquisite Rémi Tessier, offering a well-balanced blend of warmth and modernity. Tessier’s work complements the steel structure of the building, creating a harmonious space that feels intimate, inviting and exudes quiet luxury.
The main attraction of Emory’s ground floor is the location of chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, ABC Kitchens. The restaurant unites the well-known New York trio, abc kitchen, abcV, and abc cocina, all under one roof. Tessier’s design for the ABC kitchens includes warm wood tones, polished copper, and a striking Rosso Orobico marble block, which creates a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere. A vertical glass wine cellar and Damien Hirst artwork are extra features that provide a layer of cultural richness to the dining experience.
Adjacent to ABC Kitchens is the Emory Bar, which portrays a beautiful iridescent, faceted glass canopy with stained-glass installation by artist Brian Clarke. Retractable glass doors open to a courtyard, creating a distinctive indoor-outdoor experience that combines the calm of the outside area with the warmth & luxury of the bar.
The ten-story hotel comprises 61 suites featuring floor-to-ceiling glass windows that allow an abundance of natural light to stream into the rooms. The hotel also includes a stunning 300 square meter wraparound glass penthouse designed by Rigby & Rigby. The suites are completed with custom-made furnishing and feature the artistic vision of renowned designers Alexandra Champalimaud, Andre Fu, Pierre-Yves Rochon, and Patricia Urquiola. The biophilic indoor-outdoor concept of the hotel is carried through to the suites, which feature large windows that welcome the city.
Parallel to the “sail” structure is the architectural apex, the rooftop with two glass pavilions housing Bar 33 and The Emory Cigar Merchants. The Emory Cigar Merchants offers a setting with burl wood features that pay homage to cigar boxes and circular light fixtures that conceal the hidden extraction system. On the other hand, Bar 33 offers a panoramic view of the city and is simply a spot to enjoy and unwind. Both pavilions’ roofs can be retracted during the summer, showcasing unrivaled 360-degree views of London’s skyline.
Geometric forms and structures are used throughout the space as additional design elements that give it a unique and charming personality. Notable examples are the indoor pool area’s circular platforms, which add to the calm environment by projecting an aura of openness and fluidity. The circular walls and ceilings in the reception give a distinctive architectural touch and create a warm and lively foyer. Intimacy and fluidity are encouraged by the circular features and curved shapes seen in the dining rooms, which skillfully combine practicality and visual appeal. These geometric elements enhance the hotel’s visual experience as well as complement the overall design scheme.
Leaving a mark in contemporary architecture and hospitality, The Emory represents the culmination of visionary architecture and design, seamlessly blending elegance with innovation, and creating an atmosphere of calm and intimacy within the bustling city of London.
Photography by Kensington Leverne
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