Accorhotels has announced plans to open a Raffles hotel within the Old War office building in London’s Whitehall.

Completed in 1906, the seven-floor property served as the office of political and military leaders including Winston Churchill, David Lloyd George, Lord Kitchener, Herbert Asquith and T.E. Lawrence.

The Grade II-listed building was designed to house 1,100 rooms and two miles of corridors, but will be converted into a 125-room Raffles hotel, along with 88 private residences, restaurants “and other amenities”.

The property is located at the junction of Horse Guards Parade and Whitehall, and the development is expected to be completed “in just over three years”.

Commenting on the announcement Sébastien Bazin, Chairman and CEO of AccorHotels said:

“I am delighted to announce this long-term management contract with the Hinduja Group and OHLD [owners of the building]. This is the start of an important partnership for Raffles Hotels and Resorts and will create a new and vibrant landmark for London.

“This is a significant step for Raffles and a strategic addition to the Group’s Luxury portfolio. We remain committed to providing guests with unparalleled service and experience.”

The Raffles brand became part of the Accorhotels portfolio in late 2015, when the French group acquired FRHI Holdings, parent company of Fairmont, Raffles and Swissotel.

accorhotels.com