Marriott’s upscale Autograph Collection brand has opened a hotel in a former London Magistrates’ Court and police station.
The Dixon, Tower Bridge has 193 rooms, including 10 suites, and is a three-minute walk from the eponymous landmark.
The property is named after John Dixon Butler, the architect who designed the Grade II listed building in 1905.
Architectural restoration was led by Consarc Design Group while interiors were designed by Rani Ahluwalia at M Studio London, and twenty2degrees.
Cell keys have been restored and interwoven into design pieces, while benches with etchings by prisoners feature in the lobby.
The penal theme continues with a chandelier made of handcuffs above the staircase, and the Courtroom Bar, with drinks served under the original structure of the judge’s bench.
Marriott said guest rooms and public spaces will showcase art inspired by the south London location.
Provisioners restaurant has a modern, Bauhaus-esque design inspired by European cafe culture, while also featuring – you guessed it – two restored jail cells.
Rani Ahluwalia, Creative Director of M Studio London said, “The Dixon will offer a unique take on the boutique hotel experience, offering guests a neighbourhood feel in the heart of the capital.
“The design intention was to create something truly beautiful, which intrinsically links back to the origins of the building and the iconic location. Collaboration has been essential to the finely crafted designs and finishes throughout the hotel, drawing upon a wide range of expertise to establish a truly stunning final product.”
Autograph Collection recently opened another hotel further up the Thames.
The brand also includes the Cotton House in Barcelona, the University Arms in Cambridge and Domes of Elounda in Crete and Hotel am Steinplatz in Berlin.
Rooms at The Dixon start from £199.
