Hilton London Metropole has revealed the first phase of its £6 million lobby refurbishment, making it the first in the UK to incorporate Hilton’s new lobby design concept (see online news April 2011).
The refurbished lobby includes two new entrances, food and beverage outlets and a reception area. Designed by architects Aukett Fitzroy Robinson the floor space has been increased by 60 per cent and there are new meeting rooms on the mezzanine floor.
Phase one of the project is now complete and consists of the new lobby area, which is separated in to three areas. There is the main EDG bar and lounge (pictured), which now has a white wall covering the formerly exposed glass lifts.
The Whisky Lounge displays over 70 single malts and blends from around the world, and is available for whisky tasting sessions as a meetings incentive.
Finally the ‘library’ area is separated by a step from the EDG bar and has lots of power points for working. Wifi is free in all communal areas of the hotel.
Phase two is due for completion by August and will see the old entrance and exposed taxi drop area converted in to an indoor, double-height glass reception area. Check-in will be conducted at individual pods along the back wall.
All the mezzanine meeting rooms have been refreshed and brightened by shrinking the window pillars, allowing more natural light in. New carpets have been installed and a special acoustic spray has been applied to ceilings to reduce echo.
A new octagonal-shaped meeting room with floor-to-ceiling windows will be installed, seating up to 18 delegates boardroom style. An additional mezzanine meeting room catering for up to 40 delegates will also be added, taking the total meeting rooms on this level up to 11.
Avner On, general manager at Hilton London Metropole said, “This major renovation will further secure our position as one of Europe’s top conference and events hotels.
“The refurbishment will see relevant and inviting spaces that have been created for today’s busy travellers. The lobby design is visually appealing and dynamic, yet comfortable and intuitive, creating an inviting destination that seamlessly transitions from day to night, providing a social atmosphere where people come together to meet, relax, reflect, enjoy and work.”
The hotel invested £2.3 million refurbishing 354 of its 1,054 rooms last year, all located within its conference wing (see online news May 2012).
For more information visit hilton.com.
Report by Scott Carey
EDG Bar
Whisky decanter lighting in the Whisky Lounge
