Montcalm Mayfair debuts with 'sensitive luxury' concept
The relaunched Montcalm Mayfair heroes 'sensitive luxury', and features a suite with its own private entrance, dining by Michelin-starred Akira Back and design inspired by Georgian garden traditions. Olivia Palamountain reports
The Montcalm Mayfair, Autograph Collection has relaunched after a complete transformation that preserves the building's Georgian character while incorporating modern amenities and sustainable design elements.
Led by award-winning architects Holland Harvey alongside interior designers Studio Est and Studio Mica, the refurbishment is described as "conscious, cultured, characterful, and considerate," in line with the hotel's new ethos of "sensitive luxury".
This represents "a refreshing new genre of softer, gentler luxury, sensitive to contemporary values and classic architecture" that "will speak to all the senses while delivering warm, welcoming, uplifting service." As part of the Autograph Collection, Montcalm Mayfair celebrates its distinct design identity while honouring its Georgian roots. The spaces throughout the property feature pieces designed and produced by social-impact businesses, reflecting the hotel's commitment to conscious luxury.
A central narrative of "The Garden" runs throughout the hotel's design, paying homage to the site's ancient forest origins and Georgian garden design heritage. This theme manifests in three distinct yet harmonious aspects: The Art of Play, inspired by Georgian garden design and celebrating the cycles of nature; A Conversation Piece, echoing Georgian-era paintings of intimate garden and domestic settings; and The Salon, honouring the intellectual exchanges of Georgian salons, such as Elizabeth Montagu's Blue Stockings Society.
The hotel offers 151 guest rooms, including three signature suites. The Botanical Suite, described as the "crown jewel," provides London's only fully private hotel suite experience, complete with its own entrance and featuring immersive artwork by Camille Rousseau.
The Presidential Suite pays tribute to Elizabeth Montagu's salon culture with rare works by Joan Miró, while the Royal Suite houses a curated collection of lithographs and modern artworks. All rooms feature Frette bed linens and Penhaligon's bathroom amenities.Dining options include Lilli by Akira Back, where the Michelin-starred chef blends his Korean heritage with Japanese techniques to create a modern interpretation of British cuisine. The venue features a dramatic hand-painted abstract ceiling mural and bespoke chandeliers.
The YĀTRĀ SIGNATURE spa offers a holistic experience inspired by Ayurvedic wisdom. Facilities include a plunge pool, heat experiences, and four treatment rooms, complemented by soundscapes of British woodlands curated by MindFidelity.
Event spaces range from the 400-square-metre Grand Ballroom to more intimate settings such as The Library and the Bloom private dining room.
Montcalm Mayfair emphasises its commitment to responsible luxury, incorporating energy-efficient systems and partnering with social enterprises. The hotel is currently pursuing B Corp, Green Key, and EarthCheck certifications to demonstrate its dedication to environmental stewardship.