Blakes, which just celebrated a 40-year milestone, is well known for opulent interiors and famous guests.
Former Bond girl Anouska Hempel converted a set of South Kensington Victorian townhouses into Blakes Hotel in 1978. Everything about this five-star London boutique destination is exotic and luxurious. The rooms are each unique in theme. They are furnished with fine antiques, thoughtfully curated by Hempel (Lady Weinberg) over the course of eight years. Private spaces and courtyards invite you to cocoon in style.
Throughout the hotel, modern conveniences artfully juxtapose fine Biedermeier antiques and art. Sensual colors meet opulent textures and architectural details. There is a signature scent throughout. The room keys are antique keys. Service is unbelievable. The feel is old world yet very now. I have always wanted to experience this place and I am thrilled that I did.
45 individually designed rooms include 5 signature suites, 5 luxury suites, 14 Directors Doubles, 14 Luxury Doubles, and 7 Parisian Rooms. Let’s take a look at the details of some of these rooms and you will quickly see why Anouska Hempel is my design hero.
There are worse places to wake up than this Romantic Four Poster bed. This was my room! Seriously, it was beyond stunning. The floors are painted and the black enamel molding even has gold leaf accents, which you can see a hint of at the top of this photo.
The amenities are unsurprisingly spoiling. The signature grapefruit scent of the hotel carries through to the bath products, and the towels and robes are softer than I knew were possible.
the Venetian Suite
Another Romantic Four Poster room. This must be what heaven looks like.
The Contemporary Suite suite is the largest, with its own exterior entrance. A popular choice for parties, it is known to be a hangout for the rich and famous who prefer privacy. Blakes is known for impeccable service, complete privacy, and lavish design.
Hempel evokes mystery and grandeur in any style she works with…
the shower is straight ahead on the back wall of this super chic bathroom.
The Library Suite is the ultimate haven for power leisure. You enter through a library sitting area with a hidden door that reveals a hidden TV, and another that reveals… well, I won’t spoil the surprise. The colors and fabrics are masculine and sensual in this sophisticated suite. At the foot of the king-sized bed is an elegantly disguised cabinet with a pop-up tv.
note the floors…
Hempel’s mantra: Design, refine, repeat.
The Prague Suite
The Cardinal Suite, which is said to be Hempel’s personal favorite.
The bath in the Cardinal Suite. I remember the first time I saw this image in a magazine, many years ago. It took my breath away.
A few of the rooms deviate from the dark dramatic palettes, like the Corfu Suite, shown above and below. This light-infused room is swathed in flowy muslin, with architectural details and an airy range of whites. It opens onto the courtyard.
Blakes is the world’s first luxury boutique hotel.
Also known as ‘the first ‘Couture Hotel’
The Biedermeier Suite, shown above and below.
Top-notch amenities and service inspire guests to want to bask in the comfort of the rooms, public spaces or the secluded courtyard. Every space has a worldly atmosphere of tranquility and allure. The details are well-considered, with seductive lighting, tones, and textures that evoke warmth and welcome.
A quick walk through the upscale South Kensington London neighborhood reveals upscale boutiques, galleries, antique dealers, design resources, restaurants, and wine stores. Having said that, this hotel is the LAST place you will want to leave. Definitely a bucket list item that I am thrilled to have experienced.
Internationally known for her striking interiors, architecture, furniture, and gardens, Hempel still practices design through her eponymous firm. In recent years she sold the hotel to a few private investors, who continue the five-star luxury experience that Blakes is famous for. Rumor has it that there is another Blakes Hotel to come in the next few years… can’t wait!
Can’t get enough about Anouska Hempel? I get it. Her book is my favorite book that I own. See more about it here.
