Featuring an eclectic mix of painting, prints and photography, the Art’otel is a ‘vision of contemporary creativity’, with on-going exhibitions and app-led art tours. Olivia Palamountain reports
The Art’otel Battersea Power Station opened in February as part of a £9 billion conversion of the decommissioned coal-fired power station into a new cultural and residential hub for London.
The 164-room hotel is located within Battersea Roof Gardens, a building designed by Foster and Partners on Electric Boulevard, just south of the Power Station. Rooms start from £400 per night.
Blurring the lines between art, product and design, every detail of the hotel has been masterminded and designed by renowned Spanish artist-designer Jaime Hayon, from the suites, spa and public art gallery, down to the light fittings. Hayon’s vision for the Art’otel Battersea is inspired by the power station’s history and heritage, as well as its future at the centre of a new neighbourhood.
“I wanted to create a journey for guests and bring a completely new hotel experience to London, one that blends great comfort with a new vision of contemporary creativity,” says Hayon. “Artistic expression is the soul behind the interior design of the hotel. London Battersea Power Station is set to become a new hub for art and creativity, bringing something truly special to this iconic location, and it’s been a true honour to work on this project.”
The space blends playful interior design with an eclectic collection of paintings, prints, photography, sculptures and tapestry, many of which are by Hayon himself. The Art’otel London Battersea Power Station is managed by Park Plaza hotels and will also host to an ever-changing calendar of exhibitions and experiences at its art gallery.
Guests will be able to personalise their stay using the Wonderpass app, which allows them to book guided art tours, perform digital check-in and check-out, book spa, pool and restaurant reservations and access in-room dining and a 24-hour live chat.In addition to an immersive world of art, guests can journey to the heated rooftop infinity pool and hot tub, offering sensational views of the power station and beyond and drinks on tap from the dedicated bar.
The Art’otel also has a spa, plus a sauna, steam room and state of the art gym, and a restaurant headed up by Michelin-starred Portuguese chef Henrique Sá Pessoa.
Joia showcases Henrique’s fresh take on traditional plates using the best of British and Iberian produce, while Tozi Grand Cafe served all-day dining menus centred around Venetian cicchetti, antipasti, afternoon teas and brunch dishes.