Photography by Ben Pipe.
While London is a year-round destination, the city is particularly magical over the holidays thanks to extravagant decor and festive outdoor activities, all served up with signature British style.
Fans of both architecture and ice skating can glide and twirl in front of iconic buildings including the Art Deco Battersea Power Station and the neo-Classical Somerset House. The legendary Battersea Power Station has recently been transformed into a multi-use building, with private residences, 140 shops and a 24,000 square-foot Arcade Food Hall located in a former turbine.
London’s art scene is always dynamic and evolving, and one of the biggest changes is the reopening of the National Portrait Gallery after a three-year, $53 million refurbishment helmed by Jamie Fobert Architects. A new entrance features doors covered in bronze reliefs by Tracey Emin, depicting 45 portraits of women. After a three-year renovation, the Museum of Childhood is now the Young V&A with colorful, interactive exhibition areas. Don’t miss “Japan: Myths to Manga” here which looks at how landscape and technology influence Japanese culture. At the Design Museum, “Skateboard” charts the evolution of the board and also includes a skate area.
There’s no shortage of exciting new places to eat in London, but top picks for both decor and food include Dear Jackie, an Italian restaurant with over-the-top design including silk walls and a crimson color scheme. Forza Wine Bar is located on the rooftop of the National Theatre, a brutalist landmark, and serves small sharing plates in addition to its extensive drinks menus. The always elegant Claridge’s Restaurant recently reopened after a refurbishment to highlight its Art Deco heritage. The menu is classically British.
While the colors of London are amplified over the holidays, the newly renovated The Apartments at the Sloane Club embrace vibrant color all year round. Take your pick from 18 luxury serviced apartments, ranging from studios to two bedrooms, which are housed in an elegant Victorian building. The flats are decorated in shades of red, blue and gold, and feature bold headboards and patterned curtains, for an elegant, contemporary look. Make sure to dine at the club’s The Hideaway, for Asian-inspired fare. The location is also ideal for design lovers. The Saatchi Gallery is minutes away, along with the home interiors shops and boutiques of Chelsea.
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